After surgery, you will be able to stay overnight or return home the same day. You will have two wound dressings, on the chest and on the left side of the neck.
You may feel sore for a few days and feel a slight lump where the device was placed. Your provider may prescribe pain relievers. If you have been prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed.
Do not bathe, swim, or use a hot tub until your provider approves. You may be allowed to take sponge baths with your incision covered.
Avoid wearing tight clothing that may rub against the incision. Change your bandage as recommended. Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before and after changing bandages.
Check your incision for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, increased pain, warmth, or pus.
Your points will absorb themselves.
Ask your surgeon if you need to avoid driving or using machinery.
You will have a follow-up visit to program the device in 2 to 4 weeks. The device is configured to deliver stimulation at a certain frequency for a specific time at regular intervals. The device is usually set at low levels at first to see how your symptoms respond.
You will be given a handheld magnet to use at home:
- Passing the magnet over the device provides additional stimulation.
- When you remove the magnet, the device resumes the programmed stimulation cycle.
- This allows you to control the device as needed.
For example, if you have epilepsy and are about to have a seizure, you can slide the magnet to send an additional burst of stimulation.
You will need regular checks to be able to control your device. Your provider will check:
- That the device is in the correct position and working correctly
- The number of stimulations delivered.
- If it is necessary to adjust the programming
- How much energy is left in the batteries?
Check with your provider before performing any imaging, such as an MRI, as it may interfere with the device.
Be sure to attend all of your follow-up visits as long as you have the device.
Side effects may occur due to nerve stimulation and are temporary. When you first start using VNS, you may notice:
- Hoarseness or a change in your voice.
- mild cough
- A tickling sensation in the throat.
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain in the neck or throat.
- Nausea, vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Tingling or itchy sensation on the skin.
- headaches
- Difficulty sleeping or worsening sleep apnea.
These side effects usually improve over time.
