and CORRECT Answers
VNS (vagus nerve stimulation) - CORRECT ANSWER - Dr. Zabara developed in the mid-
80s. FDA approved in 1997 for partial seizure onset.
VNS device is made of - CORRECT ANSWER - constant current pulse generator and 2
platinum spiral electrodes; coiled around left vagus nerve.
VNS, how does it stop seizure? - CORRECT ANSWER - Thought to increase inhibitory
neurotransmitters and decrease excretory neurotransmitters. Blood flow increases and decreases
in different parts of brain also contributes.
FIRDA caused by: - CORRECT ANSWER - toxic metabolic encephalopathy
VSN seizure highest % decrease (year): - CORRECT ANSWER - 3 years post
implantation
Lennox-Gastaut and VNS: - CORRECT ANSWER - these patients become more alert and
have better behavior control
Intermittent Rhythmic Delta Activity (IRDA) - CORRECT ANSWER - Is seen maximal
over the frontal or occipital lobes and can be caused by various reasons, some benign or
unknown, but also are commonly associated with lesions and tumors. Gray matter is sick right
now.
% of epileptic patients who are refractory to medication: - CORRECT ANSWER - 30%
Locus Ceruleusceruleus: - CORRECT ANSWER - A nucleus in the pons involved with
physiological responses to stress and panic; principal site for brain synthesis of norepinephrine