Pune: Doctors at Manipal Hospitals Baner have successfully performed Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) Surgery on a 9-year-old boy from Bengaluru. For the last five years, the boy had been suffering from drug-resistant multifocal epilepsy.
The child's speech, movement, and cognitive brain function were all affected by the daily recurrent seizures that he had despite taking several medications.
A young child who had developed epileptic encephalopathy with regression of developmental milestones was recently treated at Manipal Hospitals, Baner, Pune.
The child underwent Video EEG monitoring to assess seizure activity, which revealed continuous electrical discharges from both sides of the brain, confirming the diagnosis of epileptic encephalopathy.
After a detailed discussion in the comprehensive epilepsy surgery meeting and consultation with the parents about available options, the team decided on Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) as the best approach.
In this procedure, a small pulse generator (battery) is implanted in the left upper chest and connected to the vagus nerve in the neck. The device sends mild electrical impulses at regular intervals to help reduce the intensity and frequency of seizures.
The stimulation can also be adjusted through automated or magnetic modes as the child recovers.
Dr. Amit Dhakoji, Head of the Department and Consultant – Epilepsy Neurosurgeon at Manipal Hospitals Baner Pune, explained: “This child’s development had started to decline, and seizures were uncontrolled despite multiple medications.
While VNS does not cure epilepsy, it helps in stabilising the condition, slowing down neuronal deterioration, and reducing the burden of seizures. With fewer episodes already, the child is showing encouraging signs of improvement.”
The child’s device settings will be gradually adjusted every two weeks over the next three months, with regular monitoring. The VNS battery is expected to last about five years before replacement.
Speaking about the case, Mr. Anand Mote, Cluster Director, Manipal Hospitals Pune, said: “At the Manipal Institute of Neuro Sciences (NINS), we remain committed to timely and effective treatment.
This case highlights our focus on advanced medical techniques, collaborative care, and better outcomes for patients.”
The procedure was successfully performed by Dr. Amit Dhakoji and his neurosurgical team. Manipal Hospitals Baner continues to offer specialized care for managing complex epilepsy cases.
