Understanding tVNS
Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation delivers gentle electrical impulses to the auricular branch of the vagus nerve through the ear. This non-invasive approach activates ascending pathways to the brainstem nucleus tractus solitarius and subsequently the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine system.
Unlike implanted vagus nerve stimulation which requires surgical intervention, tVNS delivers comparable therapeutic effects through a CE-marked medical device approach — expanding access to vagal neuromodulation without surgical barriers.
Mechanism of Action
tVNS modulates autonomic tone, reduces sympathetic overactivation, and influences brain regions associated with mood regulation, stress response, and inflammatory control. The stimulation helps restore balance to the autonomic nervous system, which may become dysregulated in various clinical conditions.
Conditions Particularly Suited to tVNS
tVNS may be considered for individuals where autonomic dysregulation contributes to symptom presentation, offering therapeutic pathways unavailable through cortical or subcortical stimulation alone:
- Anxiety disorders and stress-related conditions
- Treatment-resistant depression with autonomic involvement
- Chronic pain syndromes
- Inflammatory conditions with vagal pathway involvement
- Autonomic dysregulation and sympathovagal imbalance
- Cognitive focus and concentration difficulties
Assessment involves identifying biomarkers associated with autonomic dysregulation through QEEG analysis and clinical evaluation. Treatment protocols are generated through QPAN®, specifying stimulation parameters and session schedules.
The Treatment Process
Assessment
Clinical assessment identifies autonomic involvement in your presentation. NeuroMap® analysis confirms indication suitability, evaluating findings against tVNS criteria.
Protocol Development
QPAN® generates personalised protocols specifying stimulation parameters, session schedules, and integration recommendations with other treatment modalities where appropriate.
Treatment Sessions
tVNS is delivered through auricular electrodes, providing a comfortable, well-tolerated treatment experience. Sessions integrate seamlessly into clinic workflows with minimal preparation requirements.
Monitoring & Adaptation
Progress is tracked through clinical assessment and follow-up evaluation. Treatment protocols may be adjusted based on response, ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes.
Arrange a Consultation
To discuss whether tVNS therapy may be appropriate for your presentation, please contact Cosmos Healthcare. Assessment includes evaluation of autonomic factors and determination of optimal treatment approach.