Implanted Electronic Device May Ease Depression

Researchers are beginning a study at 20 U.S. centers to discover whether an electronic stimulation device used to treat epileptic seizures can help patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). A pilot study demonstrated that the stimulation appeared to help nearly 50% of such patients.

While antidepressant drugs and psychotherapy help to treat depression in many patients, about 30% have a severe form that is resistant to conventional treatment. The most common treatment for these patients is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). If the new study is successful, NCP may become an effective alternative to ECT.

Called the NeuroCybernetics Prosthesis (NCP), the device helps regulate nerve impulses by sending intermittent mild pulses of electricity directly to the vagus nerve. The NCP pulse generator is about the size and shape of a large pocket watch and is surgically implanted under the skin on the upper left side of the patient's chest. It is connected to the vagus nerve in the neck by way of a flexible lead. Signals from the NCP travel through the lead, up the vagus nerve, and into the brain. The implant procedure requires general anesthesia and takes about 45 minutes to two hours. The patient can go home the same day.

"Outside of electroconvulsive therapy, there is almost nothing a doctor can do for someone with TRD,” noted Robert H. Howland, M.D., associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine (PA, USA) and principal investigator of the Pittsburgh study. "This is a simple device that, if effective, will dramatically improve the quality of life for people with TRD.”