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Lehigh Valley Fleming Neuroscience Institute, the region’s neuroscience leader, is the first in the region to offer Vivistim, which uses vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) during rehabilitation therapy. It is safe and effective and helps generate two to three times more arm and hand function for stroke patients than rehabilitation therapy alone.
Vivistim increases neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to change, evolve and adapt – by sending electrical impulses to the brain via the vagus nerve. Electrical pulses release neuromodulators, which are chemicals in the brain that help create or strengthen nerve connections to strengthen the effect of rehabilitation and improve your arm and hand function.
If you are a chronic ischemic stroke survivor and have not regained arm and hand function six months after your stroke, this treatment might be right for you.
The Vivistim system has three parts:
- Surgically implanted Vivistim device
- Paired VNS during in-clinic rehabilitation
- VNS for at-home therapy during prescribed exercises
To receive Vivistim treatment, you must be referred to occupational therapy by a clinician, who will evaluate you to determine whether you are eligible.