Vagus nerve stimulation involves using a device to send electrical impulses to the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is the main nerve of the system that controls digestion, heart rate and other vital functions.
When the device fires, it sends electrical impulses to areas of the brain. This changes brain activity to treat certain conditions. Devices for vagus nerve stimulation include one the Food and Drug Administration FDA approved that goes into the body, to treat epilepsy and depression.
It works by sending impulses to areas of the brain that cause seizures and affect mood. The FDA has approved another vagus nerve stimulation device for use after a stroke. For people who have trouble using their hand or arm after a stroke, the device helps make new pathways in the brain during exercise.
This can help people regain the use of the affected hand or arm. Surgeons put these devices under the skin in the chest.
A wire threaded under the skin connects the device to the left vagus nerve. The device sends electrical signals along the left vagus nerve to the brainstem to affect the brain.
