Neurosurgeons at Oregon Health & Science University have begun implanting small devices that stimulate the vagus nerve as part of care for stroke recovery and rheumatoid arthritis.
For stroke rehabilitation, electrical pulses are used alongside intensive therapy to help patients regain movement, especially in their hands and arms. The first two patients at OHSU received the devices in September.
A separate wireless device is being used for rheumatoid arthritis, where nerve stimulation is intended to ease inflammation. One early patient said it was too soon to know whether the treatment would help.
OHSU says it is the first medical center in Oregon to offer these procedures. The hospital and its patients are still learning how well the approaches work.
