Neuroplasticity and stimulation of the Vagus Nerve: Integrative review of advances in the treatment of epilepsy.

• Autor(a) principal: Fernandes do Vale, Gustavo
• Data de Publicação: 2023
• Outros Autores: De Queiroz Cunha, Leticia, Cardoso Felipe , Maria Clara, De Azevedo Assunção, Luiz Felipe, Rosado Cantídio , Maria Oitava, Marinho Filho, Fernando, Rocha Bezerra, Keren Suely, Leandro Bezerra, Maria Beatriz, Jovino de Oliveira, Edson, Fernandes de Holanda, Ana Larissa
• Tipo de documento: Artigo
• Idioma: por
• Título da fonte: Brazilian Journal of Implantology and Health Sciences
• Texto Completo: https://bjihs.emnuvens.com.br/bjihs/article/view/796
• topic: refratária, Estimulação do Nervo Vago, terapia farmacológica, efeitos colaterais, tratamento multidisciplinar, inovação tecnológica.; refractory epilepsy, Vagus Nerve Stimulation, pharmacological therapy, side effects, multidisciplinary treatment, technological innovation.

Introduction: Refractory epilepsy represents a challenge in neurology, affecting the quality of life of patients who do not respond to conventional pharmacological therapies. Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) emerges as a promising approach. Methodology: This integrative review was based on 29 studies on VNS in the treatment of refractory epilepsy. The PICO strategy was used to construct the research question and articles were selected from databases such as MEDLINE/PubMed, Science Direct and LILACS. Results: VNS proved to be effective in reducing the frequency of epileptic seizures, with around 8% of patients achieving freedom from seizures. Side effects, such as headache and skin irritation, were mild and well tolerated. The therapy was especially beneficial for patients with specific epilepsy syndromes. However, the high cost of VNS can be a barrier for many patients. Conclusion: VNS is a safe and effective approach for the treatment of refractory epilepsy. Early intervention may be particularly beneficial, especially in pediatric patients. Future technological innovations could make ENV more accessible and effective.