Lead Fractures after Vagal Nerve Stimulator Implantation

Abstract

Objectives:Vagal nerve stimulator is an effective treatment option for the medical treatment of the resistant-epilepsies. Surgical complication risks, as well as device-dependent risks, are also present. In this study, we aimed to draw attention to lead fractures from device-dependent complications.Methods:Between March 2005 and March 2015, patients who had vagal nerve stimulator implantation were screened in our clinic, and patients with lead fractures were included in this study.Results:Vagal nerve stimulator implants were implanted to over 170 patients in our clinic, and 11 of them were found to have lead fractures. They were all taken to revision surgery.Conclusion:Although lead fractures are not common, they form 11% of the device-dependent complications. High seizure severity, frequent frequency, long seizures and trauma may cause lead fractures.

Keywords

• complication
• lead fractures
• vagus nerve stimulator