Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) Surgery Cost in India
Vagus Nerve Stimulation VNS
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Frequently Asked Questions :
1. Is VNS safe?
Yes, VNS is generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. Dr. Sandeep Vaishya will discuss these risks during your consultation.
2. How long does the VNS device last?
The VNS device typically lasts about 5-10 years, after which it may need to be replaced.
3. Will I feel the stimulation?
Most patients do not feel the stimulation; however, some may experience mild sensations in the throat or voice changes.
What conditions are treated with VNS?
VNS is FDA-approved for:
Drug-resistant epilepsy
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
It is also being researched for conditions like anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, and inflammatory disorders.
How does VNS therapy work?
A small device (pulse generator) is surgically implanted under the skin in the chest and connected to the left vagus nerve in the neck. It sends electrical impulses to the brain to help regulate abnormal activity.
Who is a good candidate for VNS therapy?
People with drug-resistant epilepsy (not controlled by medications)
Patients with depression unresponsive to multiple treatments
Eligibility is determined by a neurologist or psychiatrist after thorough evaluation.
What is the success rate of VNS therapy?
In epilepsy, about 80-90% of patients experience a noticeable reduction in seizure frequency. In depression, many patients see mood improvement over time, especially with long-term use.
How long does the VNS device battery last?
The battery life of the device is typically 8 to 10 years, depending on usage. After that, a minor surgery is needed to replace the pulse generator.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) is a revolutionary therapy that offers new hope to patients suffering from drug-resistant epilepsy and certain mental health conditions. This cutting-edge procedure involves implanting a device that sends mild electrical impulses to the brain through the vagus nerve, helping to regulate abnormal brain activity. In India, this advanced treatment is gaining popularity due to its cost-effectiveness and the availability of highly skilled neurosurgeons like Dr. Sandeep Vaishya, who practices at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram.
What is Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)?
Vagus Nerve Stimulation is a neuromodulation technique in which a device, similar to a pacemaker, is implanted under the skin of the chest. Wires from the device are connected to the left vagus nerve in the neck. Once activated, the device sends electrical signals at regular intervals to the brain to help control seizures or improve mood disorders such as treatment-resistant depression.
This therapy is FDA-approved and is typically recommended for patients who have not responded to conventional treatments like medication or surgery.
Conditions Treated with VNS Therapy
VNS therapy has shown success in treating several chronic and treatment-resistant conditions, including:
- Drug-resistant epilepsy
- Depression (especially treatment-resistant depression)
- Bipolar disorder
- Anxiety disorders (in experimental use)
For epilepsy patients, VNS does not eliminate seizures but significantly reduces their frequency and severity over time.
How is VNS Surgery Performed?
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) surgery is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that usually takes around 60 to 90 minutes. It’s typically done under general anesthesia. Here’s how the process unfolds:
Pre-Surgical Preparation
Before the surgery:
- The patient undergoes diagnostic tests like MRI, EEG, and blood work.
- A comprehensive neurological and psychiatric assessment is done to confirm the suitability for VNS therapy.
Device Implantation
The surgery involves two small incisions:
1. Chest Incision (Pulse Generator Placement)
- A small pocket is created under the skin of the upper left chest.
- The pulse generator, which is a small device about the size of a matchbox, is implanted here.
- This device will generate the electrical pulses that stimulate the vagus nerve.
2. Neck Incision (Lead Attachment)
- Another small incision is made on the left side of the neck, where the vagus nerve is located.
- A thin lead wire is gently wrapped around the nerve and then tunneled under the skin to connect with the pulse generator in the chest.
Wound Closure
- Both incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches or surgical glue.
- A sterile dressing is applied, and the patient is monitored during recovery.
Device Activation and Programming
- The device is not immediately activated after surgery.
- About 1 to 2 weeks later, the surgeon or neurologist activates and programs the VNS device using a wireless handheld computer.
- Settings are adjusted over several visits to achieve the best therapeutic effect with minimal side effects.
Major Companies That Manufacture VNS Devices
These are some manufacturers of VNS Device :
LivaNova PLC (formerly Cyberonics Inc.)
- VNS Therapy® System – for epilepsy and depression.
- SenTiva® – an advanced model with auto-stimulation features.
ElectroCore, Inc.
- Offers non-invasive VNS (nVNS) devices
- gammaCore™ – approved for migraine and cluster headaches
Cost of VNS Surgery in India
One of the major advantages of choosing India for VNS therapy is the affordability. The cost of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) surgery in India typically ranges between $25,000 to $35,000 USD. This price includes:
- Hospital charges
- Surgeon’s fees
- Cost of the VNS device
- Diagnostic tests
- Hospital stay (usually 2–3 days)
- Post-surgical care and device programming
The final cost may vary based on the hospital, city, and patient’s specific condition.
Cost Comparison: India vs Other Countries
| Country | VNS Surgery Cost |
|---|---|
| India | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| USA | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| UK | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| Thailand | $30,000 – $40,000 |
India remains one of the most cost-effective destinations for high-quality VNS procedures.
Why Choose Dr. Sandeep Vaishya for VNS Surgery?
Dr. Sandeep Vaishya is a leading name in the field of neurosurgery in India. With over two decades of experience and a global reputation, he has performed numerous successful VNS implantations for both epilepsy and psychiatric conditions.
He is currently the Executive Director and Head of Neurosurgery at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, one of the top multi-specialty hospitals in India. Dr. Vaishya is known for:
- Expertise in image-guided and minimally invasive neurosurgery
- High success rates with VNS and other neuromodulation therapies
- Personalized patient care and thorough pre/post-operative management
Patients from across the globe consult him for complex neurological disorders and advanced surgical interventions.
Benefits of Getting VNS Surgery in India
- World-class hospitals with international accreditations (NABH, JCI)
- Highly experienced neurosurgeons like Dr. Sandeep Vaishya
- Affordable pricing compared to Western countries
- Comprehensive medical tourism services including visa assistance, accommodation, and language interpretersWhy Choose Dr. Sandeep Vaishya for VNS Surgery?
Dr. Sandeep Vaishya is a leading name in the field of neurosurgery in India. With over two decades of experience and a global reputation, he has performed numerous successful VNS implantations for both epilepsy and psychiatric conditions.
He is currently the Executive Director and Head of Neurosurgery at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, one of the top multi-specialty hospitals in India. Dr. Vaishya is known for:
- Expertise in image-guided and minimally invasive neurosurgery
- High success rates with VNS and other neuromodulation therapies
- Personalized patient care and thorough pre/post-operative management Patients from across the globe consult him for complex neurological disorders and advanced surgical interventions.
- Minimal waiting time for consultation and surgery
Risks and Considerations
Like any surgical procedure, VNS therapy comes with certain risks:
- Infection at the implant site
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Throat discomfort or coughing
- Rarely, device malfunction
However, under the care of an experienced neurosurgeon and proper follow-up, these complications are minimal and manageable.
Recovery and Life After VNS Implantation
Patients typically return to normal activities within a week after surgery. The stimulation is gradually increased over time to reach an effective level. Most patients start seeing improvement in seizure control or mood symptoms within 3 to 6 months.
Ongoing device adjustments and periodic checkups are essential to maintain the best results. The battery life of the implant is usually around 5–10 years, after which it may need replacement.
Final Thoughts
Vagus Nerve Stimulation is a game-changer for patients struggling with uncontrollable epilepsy or long-standing depression. With expert neurosurgeons like Dr. Sandeep Vaishya, advanced facilities, and globally competitive pricing, India is an excellent destination for undergoing this life-enhancing procedure.
If you or a loved one is considering VNS therapy, consult with Dr. Vaishya to explore your options and receive expert guidance every step of the way.