Vagus Nerve Stimulation Cost in India

The cost of Vagus Nerve Stimulation in India typically ranges from $12,000 to $32,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) uses a small device under the chest skin connected to the left vagus nerve in the neck. It is mainly used for drug-resistant epilepsy. The cost depends on:

• Device model: including those that respond to heart-rate changes.
• Assessment: before surgery.
• Programming visits
• Future battery replacement

The Epilepsy Society says VNS is usually for people whose seizures have not been controlled by several medicines and who are unsuitable for, or do not want, brain surgery.

The device sends regular mild pulses up the vagus nerve to calm the brain activity that causes seizures. Passing a magnet over the device gives extra stimulation, for example at the start of a seizure. The Epilepsy Society notes the operation takes about 1.5 hours, and the battery lasts about five years.

Results vary. Some people have far fewer seizures, some a modest reduction, and some no benefit. It can take up to a year to work and does not cure epilepsy. Common side effects include a hoarse voice, cough and throat discomfort during stimulation.