Single incision for implanting a vagal nerve stimulator system (VNSS): technical note

BACKGROUND: A technique for implanting the vagal nerve stimulator system through a single incision is described.METHOD: A transverse incision is made in the lower part of the neck. Subcutaneous (s.c.) dissection is then done over the clavicle into the infraclavicular area to create a pocket. The vagus nerve is exposed and the electrodes are wrapped around it through the neck incision. The distal ends of the lead are connected to the pulse generator, and latter is then placed in the infraclavicular pocket through the neck incision.RESULTS: Thirty-eight implants were conducted with this technique. The pulse generator could be implanted and anchored to the underlying tissue without any difficulty. Except for wound infections in two patients there was no other complication.CONCLUSION: A single incision is an alternate to the double incision procedure. This procedure can be performed safely.