Cyberonics in the News

An implantable device that stimulates the vagus nerve has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of depression. The device was originally implanted to short-circuit epileptic seizures. Apparently some folks had a reduction in depression symptoms so they began to study it's effect on depressed folks for whom antidepressant medications were not working. Preliminary results are encouraging, especially considering the drawbacks of electroconvulsive therapy. My buddy worked in the clean room for this company and it's right down the street from my parent's place, so I'm experiencing the vicarious excitement that comes from familiarity.