Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation would be an alternative to implantable cervical vagus nerve stimulation in some situation

Implantable cervical vagus nerve stimulation (iVNS) is a representative and promising neuromodulation. However, the invasive nature restricts its application. Traditional auricular acupuncture treatment has a long history. The auricular branch of the vagus nerve (ABVN) is a branch on the surface of the ear. Some studies demonstrates that transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) would achieve similar effects as iVNS. TaVNS and iVNS share a common anatomical basis and acting mechanism. In this article, we made a comparison between iVNS and taVNS in indications and efficacy. The recent studies have revealed similar clinical efficacy of taVNS, taVNS would expand the indication of iVNS. High-quality clinical evidences are needed before taVNS become be an alternative of iVNS.(c) 2023 JTCM. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

By comparing iVNS and taVNS in indications and efficacy, it is found that taVNS has similar clinical efficacy to iVNS and can expand the indication of iVNS. However, high-quality clinical evidence is needed before taVNS can be an alternative to iVNS.