Reduction of Anxiety-Related Symptoms Using Low-Intensity Ultrasound Neuromodulation on the Auricular Branch of the Vagus Nerve: Preliminary Study.

Background: Neuromodulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve using low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) is an emerging mode of treatment for anxiety that could provide a complementary or alternative treatment modality for individuals who are refractory to conventional interventions. The proposed benefits of this technology have been largely unexamined with clinical populations. Further research is required to understand its clinical potential and use in improving and managing moderate to severe symptoms. Objectives: The aim of this study was to do a preliminary investigation into the efficacy, safety, and usability of the wearable headset that delivers LIFU to the auricular branch of the vagus nerve for the purpose of alleviating anxiety disorder symptoms. Methods: This study was a pre-post intervention study design for which we recruited 28 participants with a Beck Anxiety Inventory score of 16 points or greater. Participants completed 5 minutes of treatment daily consisting of LIFU neuromodulation delivered to the auricular branch of the vagus nerve. Participants did this for a period of 4 weeks. Assessments of anxiety symptom severity (Beck Anxiety Inventory), depression symptom severity (Beck Depression Inventory), posttraumatic stress disorder symptom severity (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for the Results: After completing 4 weeks of LIFU neuromodulation to the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, the average Beck Anxiety Inventory score decreased by 14.9 (SD 10.6) points (Cohen Conclusions: This preliminary study provided justification for further research into the efficacy, safety, and feasibility of using LIFU to modulate the auricular branch of the vagus nerve and reduce the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder.