Just curious if needing an MRI is the *only* reason that you can get a surgeon to remove your VNS device.

I got mine for TRD, and it never really did anything, but changes in my life circumstances have subsequently improved my condition a lot.

Presently, I have the device set at minimal settings (only settings where I am not badly affected by the voice issue, although I've been all up and down the scale (up to 2.25mhz).

Anyway, since mine really doesn't do what it was intended for, I hate having it in my chest. Would like to have it removed some day, but I suspect that I can only get it done if some doctor feels that I absolutely need an MRI.

I do a martial art, and some of the stretches we do make the area uncomfortable, and of course, I have to avoid being hit right over the device.

Thoughts?

Hi CrossedWire,

I personally had VNS implanted for epilepsy and there was no benefit. My surgeon removed it for "future diagnostic testing" and it was paid for by the insurance. The key is finding a surgeon who will completely remove it: stimulator, leads and coils. I had to made numerous phone calls and find my own surgeon as no one locally would do it. If you plan to go that route, check with your own surgeon first and if they say they will only do partial removal, begin making phone calls.

Doing martial arts, I would make sure your surgeon knows that as your lifestyle is considered in removal as it is during implantation. Due to the fact that you could have "serious consequences" if it were left in when it is not benefitting you should be considered as part of the discussion.

Wishing you the best and let us know how you are doing!

Hugs,
Cindy

:D HI CrossedWire!

I have had complete removal (including coils) for several reasons:

1.) I was not a canidate due to having a traumatic brain injury, and I was injured by using VNS.

2.) My device was migrating

3.) I was receiving no benefit from the device-go back to #1 and that is most likely why.

I agree with Gel about how to approach your surgeon about getting the device removed. IMHO, being in martial arts is a big risk for damage to yourself and the device if you are hit in the area of the generator and/or vagus nerve. Plus, add if you ever need diagnostic testing, you can't have a normal MRI. Then, add the biggest thing that you have basically no benefit from use of the device.

I am so glad to hear that changes in circumstances in your life has greatly helped you with your depression! I hope things continue to go well, and I wish you the best of luck on your quest for removal. Please do keep us updated!

Take care!
B)

Thanks, Cindy and Dispatch!

I appreciate the comments and advice. Gives me hope that I may be able to get the thing out.

Best Regards,

:D

You are quite welcome~my pleasure! Hope to hear from you again soon!

B)

You are so welcome, CrossedWire, I hope you are feel more comfortable with addressing this issue with your physician. There are surgeons out there that do complete removal, as I mentioned in my last response, so do not hesitate to make phone calls if you are told only a partial removal is possible. Persistence does work to your advantage!!!

Hugs,
Cindy