Stroke; a journal of cerebral circulation
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Vagus Nerve Stimulation Paired With Upper Limb Rehabilitation After Chronic Stroke.
Background and Purpose- We assessed safety, feasibility, and potential effects of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) paired with rehabilitation for improving arm function after chronic stroke. Methods- We performed a randomized, multisite, double-blinded, sham-controlled pilot study. All participants were implanted with a VNS device and received 6-week in-clinic rehabilitation followed by a home exercise program. ⋯ A pivotal study of this therapy is justified. Clinical Trial Registration- URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT02243020.