Vagus nerve stimulation paired with tones: randomized double-blind pilot

Record details

Authors: Tyler R, et al.
Journal / source: Scientific Reports (2017)
Design: Randomized double-blind controlled pilot (implanted VNS)
Sample: 30
Primary endpoint: THI
Randomized: Yes · Sham/placebo-controlled: Yes · Independent of the manufacturer: No

What this research found

At 6 weeks, 50% of paired-VNS participants had clinically meaningful THI improvement vs 28% of controls — a difference NOT statistically significant in the full cohort; benefit concentrated in the tonal, non-blast-induced subgroup.

The sponsor (MicroTransponder) later pivoted its paired-VNS platform to stroke rehabilitation (Vivistim, FDA PMA 2021); no tinnitus development since.

Limitations and conflicts of interest

Pilot size; invasive; program dormant.

Funding / conflicts: Industry-sponsored (MicroTransponder).

Primary sources

Used as evidence for

Paired vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)

This is an original summary from the Tinnitus Evidence verified database, checked against the primary source — not a reproduction of the publisher's abstract.