Vagal Nerve Stimulation for Intractable Hiccups

Abstract

Intractable hiccups are those lasting beyond a month; they can lead to significant morbidity. We described the case of a patient with intractable hiccups after intracranial surgery, which was refractory to multiple pharmacological agents. Eventually, insertion of vagal nerve stimulator led to resolution of the hiccups. A number of cases have been described of the utility of vagal nerve stimulation in treating intractable hiccups. Here we outlined the indications as well as hypothesized mechanism of action. We proposed this treatment to be considered in the most refractory cases.

J Neurol Res. 2024;14(2):86-89
doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jnr792