Vagus Nerve Stimulation

VNS has its strongest and most reliable rehabilitation evidence in upper limb motor recovery, swallowing function, wrist extensor muscle strength, MEP latency, and functional independence. Supporting the parasympathetic nervous system through vagus nerve stimulation may help maintain a low-stress state. A five-year observational study found VNS as an adjunct to treatment doubled first-time response rates compared to treatment as usual alone. Case reports and small studies have suggested VNS may help terminate status epilepticus, reduce seizure burden, and prevent recurrence. Many TRD patients report significant sleep improvement within days to weeks of starting VNS. Studies from Asia and Europe showed statistically significant improvements across FMA-UE, WMFT, and MBI, whereas American studies did not reach significance for any of these outcomes. Invasive VNS demonstrated significantly greater WMFT improvement than non-invasive VNS, but this comparison is preliminary because only two invasive studies contributed to the analysis. VNS failed to produce statistically significant improvements in spasticity or quality of life as measured by the Stroke Impact Scale. The device begins el…