What Is VNS Therapy?
Vagus nerve stimulation, or VNS, uses a small pulse generator implanted under the skin of the chest. A thin lead connects the generator to the left vagus nerve in the neck, and the device sends mild, scheduled electrical pulses through pathways linked to mood regulation.
Settings can be adjusted during office visits without another operation. VNS Therapy is FDA-approved as an adjunctive long-term treatment for adults 18 and older with chronic or recurrent depression during a major depressive episode who have not had an adequate response to four or more adequate antidepressant treatments.
Your Care Team Can Stay Involved
BioMental can manage psychiatric evaluation, activation, programming, and device follow-up while you continue routine care with a trusted therapist, prescriber, or medical team.
Some patients later choose to consolidate care. You do not need to decide immediately; with your permission, clinicians can share progress and coordinate treatment changes.
Who Typically Considers VNS Therapy?
VNS is generally considered later in the treatment pathway. Because it is adjunctive, medication, psychotherapy, and other clinically appropriate depression care may continue after implantation while benefit develops.
- Are 18 or older and currently experiencing a major depressive episode with chronic or recurrent depression
- Have not responded adequately to four or more adequate antidepressant treatments
- Can safely undergo implantation and participate in long-term programming and follow-up
