Leveraging Ultrasound Technology to Treat Human Inflammatory Disorders

Stanford scientists have invented a device for treating rheumatoid arthritis by stimulating the vagus nerve using acoustic wave therapy.
Current treatment options for autoimmune inflammatory diseases include drugs that reduce inflammation by interrupting signaling pathways in the immune system but over 40% of patients have a poor response to traditional medication, and some treatments can take months to take effect. Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve is another approach to inhibit inflammation, but current methods require invasive procedures such as implanting devices into the neck.
A solution proposed by Stanford researchers is to use a less invasive, tunable device to stimulate the vagus nerve. By using an ultrasound-based device which converts electrical energy into acoustic energy, the invention can stimulate or inhibit nerves within its focus. This treatment device can take many forms (handheld probe, wearable patch, etc.) and can be used immediately after diagnosis. In addition to allowing patients to regulate their own immune systems, this invention also consists of a cloud-based portal that records treatment data for the patient and their physician to review.