Tiny implant zaps nerves to boost stroke rehab

NCT ID NCT06716112

Terminated Knowledge-focused Sponsor: NYU Langone Health Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a small implanted device that stimulates the vagus nerve could improve arm and hand function in people who had a stroke at least a year ago. Four participants received either real or sham stimulation paired with physical therapy. The goal was to see how the brain's pathways change, not to prove a treatment works.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a way to improve motor recovery after stroke by pairing nerve stimulation with rehabilitation.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early mechanistic study that was terminated early, so results may be limited and not generalizable. The device requires surgical implantation, which carries risks.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CHRONIC STROKE

Contacts and locations

Locations

NYU Langone Health

New York, New York, 10016, United States
The University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, Texas, 75080, United States

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