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Vagus Nerve Stimulation Induces Concomitant Respiratory Alterations and a Decrease in SaO 2 in Children
Author(s) -
Zaaimi Boubker,
Héberlé Claire,
Berquin Patrick,
Pruvost Mickael,
Grebe Reinhard,
Wallois Fabrice
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
epilepsia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.687
H-Index - 191
eISSN - 1528-1167
pISSN - 0013-9580
DOI - 10.1111/j.1528-1167.2005.00283.x
Subject(s) - vagus nerve stimulation , concomitant , stimulation , vagus nerve , medicine , respiratory system , anesthesia , neuroscience , psychology
Summary: Purpose: To analyze respiratory alterations and effects on SaO 2 caused by vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in children with epilepsy. Methods: Polysomnographic recordings, including electroencephalography, thoracoabdominal distention, nasal airflow, SaO 2 , and VNS artifact were evaluated in 10 children with pharmacoresistant epilepsy treated with VNS. Results: Each VNS caused a significant increase in respiratory frequency (p < 0.05) throughout the stimulation period and a decrease in thoracoabdominal‐distention amplitude (p < 0.05), especially at the beginning of the stimulation. These respiratory alterations induced a decrease in SaO 2 from 1 to 5%. The effects of VNS on respiration differed significantly between rapid‐eye‐movement (REM) and non‐REM (NREM) sleep states. Conclusions: VNS caused a pronounced change in respiration in children with epilepsy, and this induced a decrease in SaO 2 . It is possible that VNS has a neuroprotective effect, and this possibility calls for further investigation.