Stimulation methods
tVNS
Definition
Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation means stimulation delivered through the skin with the intention of influencing vagal pathways.
Aliases and abbreviations
tVNS · transcutaneous VNS · transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation
Editorial record
Published: August 25, 2026 · Reviewed: August 25, 2026
Expanded definition
The word transcutaneous describes delivery through the skin. In VNS research, the term may refer to auricular stimulation at the outer ear or cervical stimulation at the neck.
Because anatomical location and device design differ, tVNS should not be used as if it described one standardised intervention. A useful report specifies where stimulation was applied and how it was delivered.
Protocol variables such as waveform, frequency, pulse width, intensity, session length, sham design, and participant group shape both the experience and the interpretation of results.
What the term does not establish
Why the distinction matters
The term prevents “through the skin” from being mistaken for a specific anatomical target, protocol, or level of evidence.
Main guide
A plain-language guide to tVNS, taVNS, anatomical locations, and method differences.
Read the tVNS guideRelated terms
Stimulation methods
Stimulation methods
Protocol and stimulation parameters
Protocol and stimulation parameters
Protocol and stimulation parameters
Safety and research
Editorial scope
This glossary entry supports general education. It does not diagnose, recommend treatment, or transfer findings from one VNS method, protocol, or device to another.