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Vagus nerve stimulation for treatment-resistant depression

 
Guidance issued
 
IPG Number: IPG330

Summary

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued full guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on Vagus nerve stimulation for treatment-resistant depression.

Description

Depression is associated with feelings of sadness, despair, helplessness, hopelessness and lack of interest in life. People with severe depression may be unable to eat or sleep or to take part in social activities, and they may become completely withdrawn. Vagus nerve stimulation aims to improve mood regulation and reduce depression by stimulating the nerve in the neck that carries signals to the brain areas involved. A generator implanted under the skin in the chest area is used to provide electrical stimulation to the nerve.

OPCS code:

Details

Arrangement:
Special
Topic area:
Specialty:
Specialist advice has been sought from:
  • British Psychological Society
  • Royal College of General Practitioners
  • Royal College of Nursing
  • Royal College of Psychiatrists
  • Society of British Neurological Surgeons
Date notified to NICE:
15 January 2009
Provisional consultation date:
Summer 2009
Guidance issue date:
16 December 2009

Contact details:

Project manager (for general enquiries or comments)
(for general enquiries or comments)
Ben Doak
Technical lead
(for procedure specific enquiries or comments)
Steven Barnes
Contact Address:

Interventional Procedures Programme
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
MidCity Place
71 High Holborn
London
WC1V 6NA

Links: