Yes, another procedure or surgery. Like her GJ tube placement and replacement, this is not considered a major and typically an outpatient procedure. However, with increased pulmonary concerns, we have been told to "be prepared to stay overnight". We are steadfast and trusting the bags will not be needed. It is the night before surgery and Kerstin has had her Dial bath, and the chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) (preoperative skin prep wipes) have been used. They are indeed sticky!
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| CHG wipes |
So, what is VNS? Vagus Nerve Stimulation is called a "pacemaker for the brain", it will send mild electrical pulses or energy to the brain by way of the vagus nerve. The pulses will act as stimulants to cut down the intensity of seizures or preventing them altogether. The VNS is an add on to her epilepsy care regimen and will eventually help her be able to come down on the high dosages of medicines she is currently on yet, still having seizures with some of them being very intense, like she had just a few weeks ago.
Kerstin currently has prescriptions for 4 different seizure medications. In addition to other medicines she takes; she takes 1 med twice a day, another at bedtime only, then one she takes 3 times a day and one in case of a seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes. Sounds confusing? Sounds busy? Hectic? It takes some scheduling and work to keep up with the schedule. Overtime, these widely available and approved medicines can cause other health concerns, they take a tole on muscles (which is already a part of her life with her Cerebral Palsy diagnosis), they also affect alertness/awareness.
Outside of cannabis/cannabinoid oils/ marijuana, VNS is a none medicine treatment to help with seizures. No, I have not ruled out cannabis treatments for Kerstin if they seem to be needed. But, for now, we prepare for VNS placement. Look for updates from Children's of Alabama on Facebook and Instagram - Growing With Kerstin!
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| I think I could find it with my eyes closed. |
More to come...
Seizure Control Options
Seizure Control Options Take 2
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
VNS Therapy
