Expert opinion on use of vagus nerve stimulation therapy in the management of pediatric epilepsy: A Delphi consensus study

Abstract

Purpose

To provide consensus-based recommendations for use of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy in the management of pediatric epilepsy.

Methods

Delphi methodology with two rounds of online survey was used to build consensus. A steering committee developed 43 statements related to pediatric epilepsy and the use of VNS therapy, which were evaluated by a panel of 12 neurologists/neurosurgeons with expertise in pediatric epilepsy, who graded their agreement with each statement on a scale of 1 (“I do not agree at all”) to 5 (“I strongly agree”). For each statement, consensus was established if ≥70% of the agreement scores were 4 or 5 and <30% were 1 or 2 in the final survey.

Results

Twenty-four statements regarding the need for seizure reduction in pediatric epilepsy, the recommended treatment algorithm, the benefits and safety of VNS therapy, management of side effects of VNS therapy, patient selection for VNS therapy, and the use, dosing, and titration of VNS therapy achieved consensus. VNS and other neuromodulation therapies should be considered for pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who are not candidates for resective surgery, or who do not remain seizure free after resective surgery. When VNS therapy is initiated, the target dose range should be achieved via the fastest and safest titration schedule for each patient. Scheduled programming can be helpful in dose titration.

Conclusion

The expert consensus statements represent the panelists’ collective opinion on the best practice use of VNS therapy to optimize outcomes in the management of pediatric epilepsy.