The Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) battery in my chest is dead

Last Thursday a new neurologist said the battery is definitely dead. He asked if I want the device removed! Of course, I said yes! However, because it requires a $400 copay for the surgical removal I will wait two years until there is no copay for me.

Laurie

@lsittll
Hi Laurie,
At least it’s finally going to be removed.
Too bad it can’t be done now but it will probably be ok. Did the neurologist say waiting two years shouldn’t be a problem?
Jake

I wish I knew the answer to this. My battery has been dead for years. It never stopped or reduced my seizures. I want the dang thing out. I don't think the battery causing trouble is an issue. I just want it out. Also, the wires around my vagus nerve feel oppressive. I know it's emotional/psychological, but Want it out and can't find anyone who will do it at anywhere close to an affordable price.

Did the doctor have to give the insurance company an official reason for why it needed removal? If so, what was the official reason? I'm have an appointment with a new neurologist this week. VNS removal is high on my list of things to ask about.

Hello @iamkendrajb

It is surprising to know someone else wants a VNS removed! There was no need for the doctor to give the insurance company any reason why the reason was for removal. After the doctor read the VNS and learned the battery was dead he asked if I wanted it removed. Because I will never have the battery replaced I will be living with a dead battery in my chest forever and I do not want that. So I want it removed.

Laurie @lsittl

I hope it's that easy for me. Thank you for letting me know it's possible for a doctor and insurance company to do the right thing. It will give me courage to ask my new doctor to have it taken out.

@iamkendrajb

Best of luck to you when you ask your doctor to have your VNS removed. It CAN be done!

Laurie @lsittll

I understand your feelings about the VNS I got mine put in 5 years ago I did not have grand mal seizures but a lot of generalize seizures and atypical seizures they have nearly disappeared not totally do you think it could be an older model? You do not even have to answer this it is more a question as much for me because even though my battery still is at 70% it is something I am going to have to think about in about 5 years if I am still around I'll be 75 then so I do not think so but......

Hello @1775house

Sorry for the delay in responding to your email. If your VNS has been of benefit in controlling your seizures and it does not cost you to have the battery replaced then keep it it. My VNS has never done any good. I have had it for over twenty years. I had a neurologist whom I saw for about 15 years and I had uncontrolled seizures most of the time. At the end of the time I saw her, I was put on medication that controlled the seizures. She insisted the VNS battery be replaced because it was helping to control my seizures. I knew otherwise.

Best of luck.

Laurie @lsittll

Just talked to the neurosurgeon. He agreed to total removal! Now we just have to wait and see what my insurance company has to say.