First Medical Device for Obesity Using Brain to Stomach Signal Blocking

VBLOC Therapy for Obesity
EnteroMedics (St. Paul, MN) has received FDA approval for an implanted pacemaker-like device that stimulates the vagus nerve to control appetite. This description comes from the company’s website: “The Maestro® System consists of a subcutaneously implanted rechargeable neuroregulator and two electrodes that are laparoscopically implanted by a bariatric surgeon. It delivers VBLOC® vagal blocking therapy via these electrodes that are placed in contact with the trunks of the vagus nerves just above the junction between the esophagus and the stomach. The device intermittently blocks vagal nerve signals throughout the patient’s waking hours. The Maestro System is recharged using an external mobile charger and transmit coil worn by the patient. The device can be non-invasively programmed, and it can be adjusted, deactivated, reactivated or completely removed if desired.” Stimulating the vagus nerve with this sort of device was originally developed to control epilepsy. MORE WITH VIDEOS
Image Credit: EnteroMedics