Suffolk Reporter

Stony Brook Medicine has introduced a new procedure aimed at improving upper limb function in ischemic stroke survivors. This initiative marks the first time this FDA-approved technology is being used on Long Island, with the healthcare system aiming to aid those who have not regained mobility after rehabilitation therapy.

The procedure involves vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), a neurotechnology previously utilized for epilepsy and depression, now applied to stroke rehabilitation. Charles Mikell, MD, associate professor and vice chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at Stony Brook University, explains that "VNS provides small pulses of electricity to a nerve in the neck that helps your brain make changes that are beneficial." He notes that it can assist stroke patients with hand functions like buttoning or tying.

In an operation earlier this year, Mikell's team implanted the Vivistim® Paired VNS™ System into Gerald Doroski, a 68-year-old patient who had suffered a stroke three years prior. Doroski reported significant improvement post-surgery: "My mind was in a brain fog since my stroke and now my thoughts are more defined."

Stony Brook is currently one of only two centers in the tri-state area performing this procedure due to its complexity. The program operates closely with St. Charles Rehabilitation Center, where candidates are evaluated before surgery.

While the technology is currently approved for ischemic strokes only, Mikell suggests it could potentially benefit other patients with hand deficits. He highlights that many stroke patients continue to face challenges long after their initial incident: “Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States,” he said. “And a significant fraction of those millions of patients may benefit from this technology.”

Patients undergo six weeks of intensive occupational therapy following surgery to enhance hand strength and function. The therapy also includes an out-of-clinic mode allowing ongoing exercises at home.

Doroski reports improvements four months post-surgery: “I have more movement in my right arm and hand, and finer movement with everyday tasks like writing,” he said.

Mikell expresses pride in offering this option on Long Island: “We’re very proud to be the first on Long Island to offer an option to help stroke survivors regain their independence and improve their quality of life,” he stated.