Epilepsia infantil intractable: ¿la estimulación del nervio vagal es una opción de tratamiento?

Abstract

Introduction: Although the vagal nerve stimulation has been described significant results in the management of medically
intractable seizures, it still remain a question regarding its applicability in pediatric patients. Objective: To analyse and to
discuss the risks, complications, results as well de prognosis of vagal nerve stimulation in pediatric patients. Methods: It was performed bibliographical consultation, using the databases MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, utilizing language as selection criteria, choosing preferably recent articles in Portuguese, Spanish or English. Results: The vagal nerve stimulation has been
described associated to a low technical difficulty, short surgical time and enhance of control of seizures. Vagal stimulation has been demonstrated a significant effect in the reduction of seizures frequency and drop attacks’ intensity and duration, as well as the improvement in quality of life in pediatric patients. Conclusion: In spite of the results described in childhood epilepsy, it is still initial surgical approach of epilepsy and needs more clinical studies to verify the impact of this procedure in these patients in the long term.