© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
Transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation (TANS) is a therapeutic procedure that involves the application of electrical stimulation to specific nerves, primarily the vagus and trigeminal nerves, through the skin of the ear. This technique is particularly utilized in the context of managing opioid addiction and alleviating withdrawal symptoms associated with it. The procedure is performed by a physician or a qualified healthcare practitioner who is responsible for the initial setup of the neurostimulation device. This includes calibrating the equipment to ensure it functions correctly and providing comprehensive education to the patient regarding the use of the device. The device itself is designed with a disposable earpiece that contains four electrodes, which are strategically positioned around the ear to target key dermatome regions that are in proximity to several cranial nerve branches. The objective of this precise placement is to optimize the stimulation effect on the targeted nerves. During the setup, the practitioner instructs the patient on how to properly place the earpiece and secure the connecting wires, ensuring that the electrodes are positioned correctly for effective stimulation. Additionally, the patient is educated on how to operate the remote controller, which allows them to adjust the intensity of the electrical stimulation according to their comfort level. The device is programmed to deliver stimulation pulses at specific intervals, and the practitioner will adjust the intensity based on the patient's feedback. Furthermore, the patient receives guidance on how to replace the earpiece when necessary, along with important contact information for any follow-up questions or concerns regarding the use of the equipment.
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