NCT05694663 · Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Enhanced Stroke Recovery: The VALOR Registry
(VALOR)
What this study is about
Vagal Nerve Stimulation is a novel proven therapy for patients with chronic ischemic stroke. The primary objective of this registry is to assess the safety of vagal nerve stimulation for stroke recovery through monitoring the occurrence of serious side effects associated with the surgical procedure or subsequent paired rehabilitation protocol.
View original scientific description
Vagal Nerve Stimulation is a novel proven therapy for patients with chronic ischemic stroke. The primary objective of this registry is to assess the safety of vagal nerve stimulation for stroke recovery through monitoring the occurrence of serious adverse events associated with the surgical procedure or subsequent paired rehabilitation protocol. This registry will monitor patients undergoing VNS for stroke recovery in the Mount Sinai Health System and collect clinical and procedural details, objective outcomes, and patient-reported outcomes associated with vagal nerve stimulation for stroke recovery.
Interventions
DEVICE
Vivistim
After one month of prehabiliatory training, the patient will then undergo surgical placement of the implantable VNS device (Vivistim System) consisting of an implantable neurostimulator and an implantable lead and electrode per standard of care. The device comes with a controller and software system which allows for control of the stimulation settings during the rehabilitation phase. The PMA number for this device is 210007 and the date of FDA notice of approval occurred on August 27, 2021.
Primary outcome measures
Fugl Meyer Assessment - Upper Extremity (FMA-UE)
Time frame: Baseline up to day 390
The Fugl-Meyer Assessment - Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) is a stroke-specific, performance-based impairment index for the upper extremities. It is designed to assess motor functioning in patients with post-stroke hemiplegia of the upper limbs. Scoring is based on direct observation of performance. Scale items are scored on the basis of ability to complete the item using a 3-point ordinal scale where 0=cannot perform; 1=performs partially; and 2=performs fully. The total scores range from 0-66, where higher scores indicate better performance.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Provision of signed and dated informed consent form
- Stated willingness to comply with all procedures in the VNS-Enhanced Stroke Recovery Program
- Aged 18 or older
- History of ischemic stroke
- Upper extremity weakness
- Planned to undergo VNS implantation
Exclusion criteria
- Unfavorable candidacy for device implant surgery (e.g., history of adverse reactions to anesthetics, poor surgical candidate in surgeon's opinion, prior injury to the vagus nerve etc.).
- Medical or mental instability (diagnosis of personality disorder, psychosis, or substance abuse) that would prevent the subject from meeting protocol timeline.
Where
- New York, New York
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations