RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07610655

Effects of Transcutaneous Vagal Nerve Stimulation on Post-Surgical Return to Consciousness, Delirium, and Depression

Sponsor

Northwestern University

Enrollment

40 participants

Start Date

Apr 23, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Cognitive Impairment Depression Vagus Nerve Stimulation Post Operative Delirium

Summary

This study will examine whether noninvasive, transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation (tcVNS) can help restore consciousness in patients in the operating room and the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). The study will also investigate if tcVNS can expedite discharge from the PACU and examine whether tcVNS administerd in the PACU helps reduce delirium and depression after surgery. The study will also evaluate whether tcVNS speeds cognitive recovery from emergence of anesthesia and surgery.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This clinical trial is studying a medical device called Sham (No Treatment) and a medical device called Transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation for people with cognitive impairment, depression, and other related conditions. The study is currently recruiting participants at 1 location. People eligible for this study include aged 18 Years and older.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

DEVICETranscutaneous vagal nerve stimulation

The tcVNS device utilized in this study is not an implanted device, but rather is solely operated outside of the body by affixing it around the patient's ear. The device delivers stimulation of the vagus nerve at designated intensity, interval, and frequency.

DEVICESham (No Treatment)

The stimulator is flipped upside down so that the participant does not receive stimulation of the vagal nerve.