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Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Ischemic Stroke
Sasan Andalib1,2, Afshin A Divani3, Cenk Ayata4
1Research Unit of Neurology, Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports
|November 26, 2023
Summary
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) shows promise for treating ischemic stroke by reducing brain damage and improving recovery. Further research is needed to optimize non-invasive VNS (nVNS) for acute stroke treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a potential therapy for neurological and psychiatric conditions.
- Interest in VNS for ischemic stroke treatment is growing.
- This review examines VNS efficacy and mechanisms for ischemic stroke.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence supporting VNS for ischemic stroke.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of VNS in stroke treatment.
- To discuss the potential of non-invasive VNS (nVNS) for acute stroke.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical studies in stroke models.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for VNS in stroke.
- Examination of FDA-approved invasive VNS (iVNS) protocols.
Main Results:
- Preclinical studies show VNS reduces infarct volume and improves neurological deficits.
- VNS may offer neuroprotection by reducing inflammation and enhancing cerebral blood flow.
- Invasive VNS is approved for post-stroke upper limb deficits, but not feasible for acute stroke.
Conclusions:
- Non-invasive VNS (nVNS) presents a promising alternative for acute ischemic stroke.
- Further research is required to understand nVNS mechanisms and efficacy.
- Large-scale trials are needed to establish optimal nVNS protocols and long-term outcomes.
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