Tratamiento de la epilepsia refractaria por estimulación del nervio vago

Abstract

Introduction: Refractory epilepsy is defined as the failure of 2 or more types of first- or second-line drugs used adequately with correct doses, without seizure control. About 30% of patients diagnosed with epilepsy become resistant to treatment based on antiepileptic drugs. This condition becomes a problem for physicians, as recurrent and uncontrolled seizures have a significant impact on patients' lives and quality of life, as well as a potential risk of injury. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a type of treatment used to reduce the number, duration, and intensity of seizures, presenting a high success rate, especially in patients who are not candidates for alternative therapeutic options. Objective: To analyze the safety and effectiveness of vagus nerve stimulation as a treatment for refractory epilepsy. Methodology: A narrative literature review was conducted in the following databases: SciELO, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Additionally, a search was performed in clinical practice guidelines of neurology institutions to determine the treatment success rate. Results: VNS as a treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy represents an effective, safe option with a high success rate compared to invasive therapeutic options. Conclusions: VNS contributed to a significant decrease in the number of seizures in patients with refractory epilepsy.