Stridor Related to Vagus Nerve Stimulator: A Case Report

Implantation of a vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) can be an effective treatment for medically refractory seizures. Laryngeal side effects from a VNS can include hoarseness, cough, and shortness of breath. This report highlights a 5-year-old female who presented with stridor in the setting of acquired laryngomalacia, global developmental delay, and a VNS device. The case demonstrates that a VNS can exacerbate the symptoms of acquired laryngomalacia and that close monitoring of laryngeal side effects is crucial to optimizing care in this population. Laryngoscope, 2020.

Keywords: Vagus nerve stimulator; acquired laryngomalacia; pediatric; stridor.