Vagus nerve stimulation
Surgical option for treatment-resistant depression
If VNS Is Intolerable
Patients may deactivate the device with a magnet if they are uncomfortable. Pulse stimulation stops when a magnet is held against the left upper chest and resumes when the magnet is removed.
Training
Cyberonics plans to offer free VNS training to psychiatrists who practice at selected centers that accept treatment-resistant depression case referrals from primary care physicians, community psychiatrists, and other providers. Community psychiatrists who see treatment-resistant patients also are eligible for free training. For information, see Related resources.
- Cyberonics VNS therapy Web site. www.vnstherapy.com.
- Cyberonics reimbursement and case management support services. www.vnstherapy.com/depression/hcp/ReimbursementIns/default.aspx.
- Harden CL, Pulver MC, Ravdin LD, et al. A pilot study of mood in epilepsy patients treated with vagus nerve stimulation. Epilepsy Behav 2000;1:93-9.
Disclosure
The authors receive grant support from Neuronetics. They report no proprietary interest in the technology discussed in this article.
