Carilion first in state to use post-stroke implant

Carilion Clinic reached a milestone in May being the first in Virginia to implant Vivistim for improved arm and hand function post stroke. Approved by the FDA in 2021, Vivistim treats moderate to severe upper extremity motor deficits associated with chronic ischemic stroke – a stroke caused by a blockage of blood flow to the brain with long-lasting symptoms – using vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) paired with occupational therapy.
“We are proud to be the first treatment center in the state to offer this groundbreaking solution for stroke survivors with impaired hand and arm function,” said Mark Witcher, M.D., Ph.D., neurosurgeon. “Paired VNS Therapy can revive hope for stroke survivors even years after their initial recovery efforts plateau.”
According to Vivistim® research studies, when used in conjunction with occupational therapy, the implant employs vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) to generate two to three times more hand and arm function improvement for stroke survivors than therapy alone.
During occupational therapy, a therapist will signal the device to deliver a gentle pulse to the vagus nerve while the patient performs a functional task, such as cutting food, buttoning a shirt or brushing hair. This pairing of the rehabilitation exercise with VNS releases neuromodulators that create or strengthen neural connections in areas of the brain outside the damaged region, improving upper limb function and increasing the effectiveness of the therapy. 
“Collaboration among Carilion neurosurgeons, physiatrists and occupational therapists for enhanced stroke therapy provides an incredible approach, which we believe can drastically improve the quality of stroke patients’ lives,” said Justin Weppner, D.O., section chief, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.