Ultrasound-guided percutaneous temporary vagus nerve stimulation for refractory post-traumatic chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): first reported case and implantation technique

The authors aim to explore the efficacy of ultrasound-guided percutaneous temporary vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) as a treatment for a patient suffering from refractory chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following multiple traumatic brain injuries. The case report details the successful implantation of a VNS device, which resulted in significant pain relief and improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms and fatigue, although PTSD symptoms showed an increase during follow-up. This study presents a novel approach to VNS delivery, highlighting its potential benefits for patients with coexisting chronic pain and PTSD.