Transcutaneous neurostimulator DNS-V

for auricular nerve stimulation

The “Ducest Neurostimulator V” (DNS-V) is a minimally invasive Class 2a neurostimulator that is approved for the treatment of peripheral arterial disease ( PAD ) and pain. The DNS-V device can be easily attached to the patient by the doctor and is barely noticeable in everyday life due to its compact size and can also be worn during daily personal care due to its water resistance. DNS-V therapy is based on an innovative approach that focuses on the afferent pathway . Inspired by the research of Austrian Nobel Prize winner Eric Kandel on the Aplysia , a Californian sea snail, the therapy aims to improve the activity of the sensory (afferent) nuclei through continuous stimulation of afferent nerve pathways. Afferent nerve pathways in the ear and the special role of the GAN According to a literature search by Dr. Hirtler from the Anatomical Institute of the University of Vienna, all nerves in the ear are purely afferent nerve pathways . A special nerve that plays an important role in this therapy is the greater auricular branch (GAN) . This runs from the fossa triangularis over the C2 and C3 vertebrae to the nucleus tractus solitarii . Interestingly, this nucleus also shares a path with the vagus nerve . Stimulation of the GAN could be a promising form of brainstem stimulation. Compared to vagus stimulation, no reduction in heart rate has been observed so far, which could be a potential advantage. DNS-V therapy: new approaches for medicine DNS -V therapy offers a simple and low-stress method for various applications. Two important indications are: