For many people, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an effective and minimally invasive treatment option for controlling seizures or depression that has resisted treatment through other methods. One of the most significant benefits of the treatment is the lack of severe side effects that often accompany treatment for both epilepsy and depression.

VNS used to treat seizures must be used in conjunction with seizure medication, but patients may be able to reduce their dosage, which may reduce some side effects of their seizure medication. Additionally, people who are using vagus nerve stimulation to treat severe chronic depression may be able to reduce the dose of antidepressants.

However, there are certain risks that are associated with vagus nerve stimulation. One of the most significant risks is the use of diathermy in people with implanted stimulators. Diathermy is a common type of heat therapy used to treat various forms of pain and inflammation. During diathermy treatment, microwaves, shortwaves or ultrasound are selectively absorbed by tissues with high water content. This therapy can be particularly dangerous for people with nerve stimulators as it may cause the device to heat up and damage the vagus nerve or surrounding tissue. This could result in a loss of vocal cord function or, depending on the extent of the damage, even death. People with vagus nerve stimulators should consult with their physician before undergoing any type of heat treatment on any part of the body.

People with vagus nerve stimulators should also take precautions when undergoing an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan. There is a chance that the MRI may heat the electrodes of the stimulator and cause damage to the nerve or tissue. Generally, the VNS should be turned off prior to undergoing an MRI examination. Other imaging tests, such as x-rays or ultrasounds, are not thought to cause the same problems. However, because of the placement of the device, it may interfere with the results of some imaging tests such as a chest x-ray or a mammogram. People with vagus nerve stimulators should always inform health professionals about their device before any procedures are begun.