Royal Palm Beach

Researchers are evaluating the safety and effectiveness of Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) Therapy as an additional treatment compared to no stimulation in people with treatment-resistant depression. This prospective, multi-center, randomized, controlled, blinded trial focuses on reducing depressive symptoms over 12 months using multiple depression rating scales. The study follows guidelines from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding evidence development for this treatment. Participants receive implantation of the VNS device, which delivers stimulation to the vagal nerve. After a minimum two-week period post-implantation, participants are randomly assigned to either active VNS treatment or no stimulation control, with outcomes observed for 12 months. Following this randomized phase, all participants enter an open-label extension where those in the control group receive active stimulation. Additional subjects may join this open-label study for up to five years to further assess long-term effects. Throughout the study, participants undergo regular assessments including the Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), WHO Disability Assessment Schedule, Health Outcome Scale, Clinical Global Impressions Scale, and Suicidality Tracking Scale. Researchers monitor response rates, remission times, duration of effects, and adverse events from implantation through 12 months. This comprehensive evaluation includes safety monitoring and functional outcome measures to understand the impact of VNS therapy on depression and related disabilities.