Effects and mechanisms of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation on post-stroke cognitive impairment in animal studies: a systematic review and meta-analysis

 Why this animal study? Don't we have enough human research out there to create protocols with? Never mind, there aren't enough functioning neurons in your stroke medical 'professionals' to accomplish that! You all need to be fired!

• vagus nerve (56 posts to July 2012)

Effects and mechanisms of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation on post-stroke cognitive impairment in animal studies: a systematic review and meta-analysis

• 

  Shuying Li

• X

  Xiaping Chen

• S

  Sihang Chen

• F

  Fu Liu

• J

  Jinlong Yin

• W

  Wenhao Hu

• J

  Jiang Xu

• 

  Xuejing Li *

The Affiliated Huai'an Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Huai'an, China

Abstract

 Background:  

Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) substantially undermines rehabilitation adherence and poses a major obstacle to functional recovery. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS), a noninvasive neuromodulation technique, has the potential to improve cognitive function, as demonstrated in various clinical and preclinical studies. Against this backdrop, we performed a meta-analysis of taVNS in experimental stroke models to quantify its cognitive benefits and probe the biological mechanisms involved in its effects.

Methods: 

We systematically searched databases, including PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Embase, and Scopus, to identify controlled animal studies evaluating taVNS in PSCI models. Following eligibility screening, five studies were selected for final synthesis. The primary cognitive outcomes comprised escape latency in the Morris water maze and the Barnes maze. Data extraction was performed independently by two investigators, and statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.4 software.

Results: 

Five RCTs involving 158 rodents were analyzed in this study. The meta-analysis revealed that taVNS significantly improved memory function in PSCI animals (SMD = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.06 to 2.64, p < 0.01, I 2 = 57%) and learning ability (MD = − 6.38, 95% CI: − 8.87 to − 3.89, p < 0.01, I 2 = 0%) and reduced modified neurological severity scores (MD = − 1.08, 95% CI: − 1.63 to − 0.52, p < 0.01, I 2 = 38%). Mechanistically, taVNS significantly elevated acetylcholine levels (SMD = 1.57, 95% CI: 0.85 to 2.30, p < 0.01, I2 = 0%), inhibited neuronal apoptosis (SMD = 2.29), and promoted angiogenesis (SMD = 1.63). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the primary outcomes.

Conclusion: 

This study provides preclinical evidence confirming that taVNS can effectively improve cognitive deficits in PSCI animal models. The enhancement of Ach levels, inhibition of neuronal apoptosis, and promotion of vascular repair may be related to the non-neuronal cholinergic system (NNCS), anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant stress mechanisms. However, as only a few studies were included, more high-quality animal experiments are needed in the future to develop standardized interventions and further explore the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects.

Systematic review registration:

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD420261329420.

New procedure helps restore independence after stroke

 If it's new to your hospital; THAT IS PURE INCOMPETENCE! 

There is nothing new about vagus nerve treatment for stroke. The only thing new is your stroke medical 'professionals' incompetence in acknowledging they are incompetent.

vagus nerve (56 posts to July 2012)

And why the surgical option? Need the revenue?

10 Easy Ways to Stimulate Your Vagus Nerve to Reduce Stress from Debbie Hampton

Earlobe Clip-On Attenuates POTS - Vagus Nerve Stimulation May 2023 

The latest here:

New procedure helps restore independence after stroke

For many stroke survivors, weakness or limited movement in their hands and arms can persist long after the initial event, making routine tasks a daily challenge. Baptist Health is bringing renewed hope to those affected by stroke by offering a new outpatient procedure that, when paired with rehabilitative therapy, may help patients regain function in their upper extremities months or even years after an ischemic stroke.

“This first-of-its-kind treatment represents a promising new advancement in stroke recovery,” said neurosurgeon Eric Sauvageau, M.D., co-medical director of Baptist Stroke & Cerebrovascular Center. “Because it helps create new neural connections, improvements in movement can continue even after rehabilitative therapy ends. I’ve seen patients who couldn’t open their hands following a stroke five, seven or even 10 years ago now using their hands to eat.”

The minimally invasive procedure, performed at Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville, involves implanting a medical device no bigger than the palm of a hand into a patient’s chest. A wire connects the device to the vagus nerve in the neck, which carries signals between the brain and body. The FDA-approved Vivistim Paired VNS System delivers gentle, repeated stimulation to help support recovery.

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), when delivered alongside physical and occupational therapy, boosts the brain’s ability to relearn movement by strengthening existing neural pathways and creating new ones that bypass areas damaged by the stroke. Research has shown that pairing VNS with rehabilitation may help people recover hand and arm function better than rehabilitation alone, with some studies finding improvements that were two to three times greater. While VNS is a newer approach for stroke recovery, it has been used at Baptist Health for years to treat other conditions such as epilepsy. 

Regaining movement and independence

The VNS treatment for stroke is suitable for those who have experienced moderate to severe upper extremity impairment for at least six months or more following an ischemic stroke. Outpatient rehabilitation therapy begins two to three weeks after implantation, with sessions focused on everyday activities such as brushing one’s hair or cutting food. The device delivers stimulation as patients perform these movements, and patients can continue therapy at home by activating the device while practicing exercises or performing daily tasks.

“This innovative therapy is part of our ongoing effort to bring leading-edge stroke treatments to the communities we are privileged to serve,” said Nicole B. Thomas, president of Baptist Jacksonville. “As the regional leader in comprehensive stroke care, our specialist teams excel at delivering compassionate care that restores independence and quality of life to our patients and their families.”

Baptist Health is a regional leader in neurology and neurosurgery and is recognized nationally for minimally invasive, innovative treatments and groundbreaking research.

At the forefront of this work is Baptist Stroke & Cerebrovascular Center. Located at Baptist Jacksonville, it is a leader for advanced diagnostics and treatments for strokes, brain aneurysms and other cerebrovascular conditions. The center’s reach extends to more than two dozen hospitals and satellite EDs via the Telestroke Program, which virtually connects physicians and health care professionals in the greater Jacksonville area and South Georgia with Baptist Health’s stroke experts.

Accessible 24/7, the program promotes quicker diagnosis and treatment, reduces potential disability and saves lives.

For more information on Baptist Health’s stroke program and the Baptist Stroke & Cerebrovascular Center, go to baptistjax.com/services/brain-and-spine/stroke-and-cerebrovascular-care.

Northwell’s Phelps Hospital First in Westchester to Offer Vivistim Procedure for Stroke Recovery

  WOW, admitting COMPLETE FUCKING INCOMPETENCE in how long it took to bring vagus nerve stimulation into their stroke practice. And you haven't fired the board of directors for incompetence yet?

vagus nerve (67 posts to July 2012)

 And why not the non-surgical ones? Or do you need the surgical revenue?

 Earlobe Clip-On Attenuates POTS - Vagus Nerve Stimulation

Non-invasive device shows promise in proof-of-concept trial. 

10 Easy Ways to Stimulate Your Vagus Nerve to Reduce Stress from Debbie Hampton

Northwell’s Phelps Hospital First in Westchester to Offer Vivistim Procedure for Stroke Recovery

Cutting-edge neuro-rehabilitation technology helps chronic stroke survivors restore arm and hand function

Northwell’s Phelps Hospital has become the first hospital in Westchester County to offer the FDA-approved Vivistim® Paired VNS™ System, a revolutionary therapy for stroke rehabilitation. This innovative treatment provides new hope for chronic ischemic stroke survivors to regain upper limb function and improve quality of life.

Vivistim is an implantable device, similar to a pacemaker, that is placed in the upper chest and neck to deliver gentle electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve during targeted rehabilitation exercises. This unique "paired" approach is designed to help stroke survivors who have plateaued in traditional therapy relearn and improve motor skills in their affected arm and hand. The Vivistim System has been shown in clinical trials to achieve two to three times greater functional improvement than traditional rehabilitation therapy alone.

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(914) 269-1930

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"We are incredibly proud to be the first in Westchester to offer the Vivistim Paired VNS System," said Christian Ferreira, MD, cerebrovascular neurosurgeon at Phelps Hospital. "For patients who have struggled with persistent arm and hand weakness years after their stroke, this therapy offers renewed hope. It leverages the brain's natural ability to relearn — known as neuroplasticity — providing an opportunity for significant functional improvement that can profoundly impact their daily lives and independence."

This novel therapy combines rehabilitation with vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), a treatment that administers electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, one of the longest nerves in the body. Patients engage in activities ranging from simple tasks like brushing their teeth, writing or getting dressed to more complex daily routines such as preparing meals or playing games. The Vivistim device is activated during these exercises, helping strengthen the neural pathways responsible for movement and essential for regaining lost function.

Candidates for Vivistim are chronic ischemic stroke survivors, at least six months post-stroke, with moderate to severe upper limb deficits and have plateaued in their recovery.

“Bringing this advanced neuro-rehabilitation technology to Westchester underscores Phelps Hospital's unwavering commitment to delivering cutting-edge care and improving patient outcomes right here in our community,” said David Gordon, MD, chair of neurosurgery for Northwell in Westchester. “The introduction of Vivistim at Phelps provides local access to this life-changing therapy for stroke survivors throughout Westchester and the Hudson Valley, eliminating the need to travel outside the region for this specialized treatment.”

The addition of Vivistim builds on Northwell's continued investment in neurological care across the region, bringing the most advanced treatments closer to the communities it serves. Over the past year, the health system expanded its neurosurgical practice with a new dedicated location at Phelps Hospital and launched a $1.96 million comprehensive neurology practice in nearby Chappaqua Crossing.

Phelps provides the full spectrum of ischemic stroke care, from IV thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy to emergent neurosurgical procedures. The hospital has been designated a thrombectomy-capable stroke center by the Joint Commission, the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Stroke Association (ASA). The AHA and ASA have also recognized Phelps with the Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Gold Performance Achievement Award, as well as the Target: Stroke Honor Roll - Elite and Target: Stroke Honor Roll for advanced therapies. 

Mobia Medical (MOBI) Reports Promising Two-Year Results from VNS-REHAB Study

 In the US you would have long ago been kicked out of doctor and therapist supervised rehab due to plateauing. The goal is to kick you out of insurance as soon as possible to increase insurance company profits; it has nothing to do with getting you recovered! You'll have to ask for this while since in acute stage.

Mobia Medical (MOBI) Reports Promising Two-Year Results from VNS-REHAB Study

On July 14, 2026, Mobia Medical MOBI +2.16% 

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revealed encouraging two-year follow-up outcomes from the VNS-REHAB study, recently published in the peer-reviewed journal Neurology. The results indicate significant and sustained improvements in upper-limb motor function, daily living activities, and overall quality of life for patients who underwent the Vivistim Paired VNS Therapy. This study provides robust longitudinal evidence for interventions aimed at chronic ischemic stroke recovery.

• Market Cap: $384.7 million
• GF Score™: 7/100, indicating a below-average ranking in terms of long-term  investment potential.
• Insider Activity: There were 10 insider buying transactions over the past 3 months, with a total of 1,448,202 shares bought.

What's Behind the News?

The VNS-REHAB study results are significant as they showcase the efficacy of the Vivistim Paired VNS Therapy in improving motor functions and quality of life for stroke survivors. The study analyzed  data from 49 participants and found that 76% achieved clinically meaningful responses on key assessments, including the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Upper Extremity impairment and the Wolf Motor Function Test. These findings suggest that the therapy not only aids in physical rehabilitation but also enhances daily living activities and overall well-being, making it a promising option for chronic ischemic stroke recovery.

Lottery

Mobia Medical Inc operates in the healthcare sector, specifically within the medical devices and instruments industry. The company is focused on redefining stroke recovery for survivors living with motor impairments. Its flagship product, the Vivistim Paired Vagus Nerve Stimulation system, is primarily sold to stroke centers across the United States. With a market capitalization of $384.7 million, Mobia Medical continues to innovate in a critical area of healthcare, addressing the needs of stroke survivors.