Exploration of Changes in Health-Related Quality of Life after 3 Months of Vagus Nerve Stimulation

Purpose. The goal of this work was to explore changes in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and reductions in seizure frequency among patients initiating vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for medication-refractory epilepsy. Methods. Patients receiving VNS completed the Quality of Life in Epilepsy-10 (QOLIE-10) at baseline and after 3 months of stimulation. Patients were categorized as responders (>= 50% seizure reduction) and nonresponders (<50% seizure reduction). Data were analyzed for change from baseline to 3 months within each group and between groups. Results. Both groups reported improvements in almost all aspects of HRQOL. Statistically significant improvements were reported by responders in energy, memory, social aspects, mental effects, and fear of seizures; and by nonresponders in downheartedness and overall QOL. Responders improved significantly more than nonresponders in energy. Conclusions. These exploratory analyses showed little difference in HRQOL between responders and nonresponders, with both reporting improvements after 3 months of VNS. Follow-up may determine whether improvements are sustained or attributable to placebo effect. (C) 2001 Academic Press