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Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports

Published in:

27-11-2023 | Vagus Nerve Stimulation

Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Ischemic Stroke

Authors: Sasan Andalib, Afshin A. Divani, Cenk Ayata, Sheharyar Baig, Ethem Murat Arsava, Mehmet Akif Topcuoglu, Eder Leonardo Cáceres, Vinay Parikh, Masoom J. Desai, Arshad Majid, Sara Girolami, Mario Di Napoli

Published in: Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports | Issue 12/2023

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has emerged as a potential therapeutic approach for neurological and psychiatric disorders. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in VNS for treating ischemic stroke. This review discusses the evidence supporting VNS as a treatment option for ischemic stroke and elucidates its underlying mechanisms.

Recent Findings

Preclinical studies investigating VNS in stroke models have shown reduced infarct volumes and improved neurological deficits. Additionally, VNS has been found to reduce reperfusion injury. VNS may promote neuroprotection by reducing inflammation, enhancing cerebral blood flow, and modulating the release of neurotransmitters. Additionally, VNS may stimulate neuroplasticity, thereby facilitating post-stroke recovery.

Summary

The Food and Drug Administration has approved invasive VNS (iVNS) combined with rehabilitation for ischemic stroke patients with moderate to severe upper limb deficits. However, iVNS is not feasible in acute stroke due to its time-sensitive nature. Non-invasive VNS (nVNS) may be an alternative approach for treating ischemic stroke. While the evidence from preclinical studies and clinical trials of nVNS is promising, the mechanisms through which VNS exerts its beneficial effects on ischemic stroke are still being elucidated. Therefore, further research is needed to better understand the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of nVNS in ischemic stroke. Moreover, large-scale randomized clinical trials are necessary to determine the optimal nVNS protocols, assess its long-term effects on stroke recovery and outcomes, and identify the potential benefits of combining nVNS with other rehabilitation strategies.

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Title: Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Sasan Andalib
Afshin A. Divani
Cenk Ayata
Sheharyar Baig
Ethem Murat Arsava
Mehmet Akif Topcuoglu
Eder Leonardo Cáceres
Vinay Parikh
Masoom J. Desai
Arshad Majid
Sara Girolami
Mario Di Napoli
Publication date: 27-11-2023
Publisher: Springer US
Keywords: Vagus Nerve Stimulation
Stroke
Published in: Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports / Issue 12/2023
Print ISSN: 1528-4042
Electronic ISSN: 1534-6293
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11910-023-01323-w

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Ischemic Stroke

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

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