VNS for depression

[booklover]

:confused: Has anyone here had VNS for depression? I have both E and depression and will be having the implant put in on the 26th of this month. My psychiatrist is more hopeful of it helping than my Epi is. I have a couple of questions, well actually 4. First my neurosurgeon wants to do the procedure as a 23 hour admit I know most of the things I've read say its an outpatient procedure. Is the overnight really neccessary? 2nd The neurosurgeon wants to implant the battery under my arm instead of in the chest area because he says it often moves around in a woman's chest and this can cause problems. He says the cut under the arm is a more painful healing, is it neccessary? Third is there anything done differently between using it for E or depression? Lastly, the surgery will be on a Fri morning, will I be up to teaching Sunday School Sunday or should I get a sub? Thanks for your help and sorry for the double posting. Annmarie

[Linda25]

Hi Booklover

I am totally unfamiliar with this procedure, but do have a couple of suggestions anyway

1. whenever a doctor suggests a longer stay in the hospital - TAKE IT - you will be safer there and they can better address pain issues if they arise. The longer stay may not be "necessary" but if it will ensure better pain control, it's the right choice. Also, once you leave the hospital, it's very difficult to get back in if you feel you need to.

2. My second piece of advice is to go ahead and get a sub for sunday school - you should devote yourself to resting and healing. If you really feel GREAT you could always show up at SS at the last minute.

good luck to you, sorry I don't have more info/advice about your specific procedure.

linda25

[booklover]

Linda, Thanks for your advice. I wrote out my lesson plans for the next month today so if someone does have to sub everything is ready for them. Hope you have a happy and healthy new year! Annmarie

[Linda25]

Likewise ;)

good luck