Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) surgery involves the surgical implantation of a stimulating device, a 6–centimeter wide disc which looks like a pacemaker. An incision is made along the outer side of the chest on the left side, and the device is implanted under the skin. A second incision is made horizontally in the lower neck, along a crease of skin, and the lead from the stimulator is wrapped around the vagus nerve. The brain itself is NOT surgically involved in VNS surgery. The device battery lasts for approximately 5 years, after which many patients choose to have repeat surgery to replace the battery.

Compared to standard epilepsy surgery, VNS surgery is relatively minor. The procedure takes 1-2 hours, requires general anesthesia, and most patients return home the same day of surgery.

Insert Figure 26 from page 178 of book