Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) therapy is a medical treatment that involves implanting a device that sends electrical impulses to the vagus nerve in the neck. This therapy is used to treat a variety of conditions, including epilepsy, depression, and chronic pain.
Medical tourism platforms like Medditour connect the patients seeking VNS therapy procedure with the global hospitals and facilitators for affordable treatments without any delay in time.
In this article, we will discuss the significance of VNS therapy, the procedure involved, and how medical tourism in India helps provide VNS therapy to patients at affordable cost.
Significance of VNS Therapy
VNS therapy is a significant treatment option for patients with epilepsy who have not responded to other treatments, such as medication or surgery. VNS therapy has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures, improve quality of life, and decrease the need for hospitalizations. Additionally, VNS therapy has been shown to be effective in treating depression and chronic pain.
Epilepsy Foundation states that a review of 65 people who were had VNS for 10 years or more, showed improvements in seizure control over time and seizures decreased by 36% after 6 months, 58% after 4 years, and 75% by 10 years after the VNS was placed.
Procedure of VNS Therapy
The VNS therapy device is implanted under the skin in the chest area, and a wire is attached to the device that runs up the neck and connects to the vagus nerve. The device is then programmed to deliver electrical impulses to the nerve at regular intervals. The patient may feel a slight tingling sensation in the neck when the device is activated. Epilepsy Society states that the stimulator has a battery inside it which can last up to ten years.
The procedure to implant the device typically takes one to two hours and is performed under general anesthesia. The patient may stay in the hospital for a day or two after the procedure to monitor for any complications.
Medical Tourism in India and VNS Therapy
India is one of the top destinations for medical tourism due to its world-class medical facilities and highly skilled doctors. Medical tourism in India provides an opportunity for patients from around the world to access VNS therapy at a fraction of the cost of what it would be in their home country.
In India, VNS therapy is offered at several leading hospitals, including Apollo Hospitals, Fortis Healthcare, and Max Healthcare. These hospitals have state-of-the-art facilities and experienced doctors who specialize in VNS therapy. Additionally, the cost of VNS therapy in India is significantly lower than in the United States or Europe.
Medical tourism in India for VNS therapy also provides an opportunity for patients to explore the country and experience its rich culture and history. Companies like Medditour help the patients in combining treatment with vacation, thereby ensuring a relief from the stress. Many hospitals in India offer packages that include not only medical treatment but also accommodations, transportation, and sightseeing tours.
In conclusion, VNS therapy is a significant treatment option for patients with epilepsy, depression, and chronic pain. The procedure involves implanting a device that sends electrical impulses to the vagus nerve in the neck. Medical tourism in India provides an opportunity for patients from around the world to access VNS therapy at a lower cost than in their home country. Additionally, medical tourism in India provides an opportunity for patients to explore the country and experience its rich culture and history.