Latin America Vagus Nerve Stimulation Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Implantable VNS Device, External VNS Device), By Application (Epilepsy, Migraine, Depression), By Biomaterial, By End-use, By Country, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Market Size & Trends

The Latin America vagus nerve stimulation market size was estimated at USD 19.57 million in 2024 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 12.2% from 2025 to 2030. This growth can be attributed to the rising prevalence of neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, depression, and migraine, which drives the need for Vagus Nerve Stimulators (VNSs). According to The Lancet Regional Health - Americas 2024, the prevalence of depression among adults is estimated at 5% worldwide; a recent systematic review of population-based studies in Latin America found a regional prevalence of 12%. Technological advancements, including non-invasive VNS devices, have improved accessibility and patient compliance. In addition, growing awareness among healthcare professionals and patients about the benefits of neuromodulation therapies is driving demand.

The prevalence of neurological disorders is growing, fueling the demand for innovative treatment options such as VNS. Conditions such as epilepsy, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, and other cognitive and neurodegenerative disorders are treated with neuromodulation devices such as vagus nerve stimulators. Several countries are witnessing a rise in the prevalence of neurological disorders. For instance, a study published by the National Library of Medicine in March 2023 examined the prevalence of epilepsy in Mexico over five decades. The findings indicated that epilepsy is more prevalent in Mexico. The study reported an incidence rate of 3.9 to 41 per 1,000 individuals in rural areas and 3.49 to 44.3 per 1,000 individuals in urban areas. This rising incidence of epilepsy in the region has significantly increased the demand for advanced treatment options, such as vagus nerve stimulators, further propelling the market growth.

The below table highlights the prevalence of active epilepsy in various regions of Brazil based on epidemiological studies conducted in 2021. The data shows significant variations in epilepsy prevalence across different cities and age groups.

Prevalence of epilepsy in epidemiological studies in Brazil

Epilepsy-focused organizations are crucial in raising awareness, serving as a significant market driver for the vagus nerve stimulator in Latin America. Several organizations are launching initiatives to enhance knowledge and improve access to resources for managing neurological disorders. For instance, in September 2024, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) introduced an advocacy toolkit aimed at increasing epilepsy awareness and organizing campaigns. This toolkit seeks to position epilepsy as a public health priority, combat stigma, and improve access to care, aligning with global mandates such as the WHO’s Intersectoral Global Action Plan (IGAP). These initiatives are expected to promote early diagnosis, raise awareness, and improve treatment accessibility, creating a favorable environment for the adoption of VNS as an effective solution for drug-resistant epilepsy.

Companies and organizations in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are raising funds to support various research projects to study the effects of vagus nerve stimulators on various medical conditions. These investments give rise to comprehensive studies, which can lead to increased device adoption. For instance, in August 2024, the Brazilian Federal Agency for Support and Evaluation of Graduate Education (CAPES), under the Ministry of Education of Brazil, funded a study designed by V. Costa and M. Menacho as part of the Institutional Internationalization Program. The study evaluated the effects of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) on chronic pain in adults. This study concluded that tVNS can serve as an effective approach for reducing pain intensity in chronic pain conditions. Rising funding from government and healthcare organizations focused on vagus nerve stimulation research is anticipated to further propel market growth in the region.

The increasing number of clinical trials and studies focusing on vagus nerve stimulation is expected to create profitable opportunities for market players. Positive results from these clinical trials regarding the safety and effectiveness of these devices in treating various diseases, such as epilepsy, depression, and anxiety, among other extended applications, are expected to increase their adoption. Several studies have shown favorable results for using vagus nerve stimulation devices. For instance, a study published by Frontiers Media S.A. in July 2024 found that Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (TAVNS) significantly reduced left and right masseter activation to reduce pain perception and anxiety levels in university students. A total of 42 participants were enrolled in this randomized clinical trial. The study is also registered in the Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials. Such positive results from several studies are expected to drive market growth in the coming years. Moreover, numerous academic and research institutions are conducting clinical trials and studies for vagus nerve stimulation devices. Thus, the rising number of clinical trials is anticipated to create lucrative opportunities for market players.

Vagus nerve stimulation clinical trials

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The market is currently growing, driven by the rising prevalence of neurological and mental health disorders, increasing awareness campaigns, and advancements in neuromodulation technologies. Factors such as supportive government initiatives, ongoing research, and the growing demand for non-invasive treatment options further accelerate market expansion.

The Latin America vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) industry exhibits a significant degree of innovation driven by technological advancements and growing research in neuromodulation therapies. The market is witnessing the development of non-invasive VNS devices, such as transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS), offering safer and more accessible alternatives to traditional implantable stimulators. Innovations such as miniaturized battery-free devices and wireless connectivity for remote monitoring are enhancing patient outcomes and treatment adherence. Furthermore, ongoing research exploring combination therapies with VNS for epilepsy, depression, and chronic pain management is further fueling innovation.

"We know that if you put electric current in pulses for short periods of time directly onto the vagus nerve, you can control inflammation through the inflammatory reflex in animals and people. The VNS devices are built with batteries that can last eight to 10 years but can be turned off or modified by doctors as needed."- President and CEO of the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research.

Regulations significantly shape the Latin America vagus nerve stimulation industry by ensuring medical devices' safety, efficacy, and quality. Countries in the region have established regulatory frameworks to oversee neuromodulation device approval, manufacturing, and commercialization. Regulatory bodies such as ANVISA (Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária) in Brazil, COFEPRIS (Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk) in Mexico, and INVIMA (National Food and Drug Surveillance Institute) in Colombia set stringent requirements for clinical trials, device registration, and post-market surveillance.

The level of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activities in the Latin America vagus nerve stimulation industry is growing in interest among global medical device companies and regional players. M&A activities are primarily driven by the increasing demand for neuromodulation devices and the need to expand product portfolios, enhance technological capabilities, and strengthen market presence. Global companies are acquiring smaller regional players and innovative startups to gain access to advanced VNS technologies and tap into emerging markets. In July 2022, LivaNova PLC, a medical technology company, acquired ALung Technologies, Inc., a Pittsburgh-based developer of advanced medical devices.

The availability of product substitutes in the Latin America vagus nerve stimulation industry with several alternative treatment options for neurological and mental health disorders. Common substitutes include pharmacological therapies such as anticonvulsant medications for epilepsy and antidepressants for depression, which are often the first-line treatment. In addition, other neuromodulation therapies, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation, deep brain stimulation (Medtronic's Percept PC Neurostimulator), and electroconvulsive therapy, serve as alternative solutions, mainly for drug-resistant conditions.

The regional expansion of the Latin America vagus nerve stimulation industry is gaining momentum, driven by rising healthcare investments, increasing prevalence of neurological and mental health disorders, and improving healthcare infrastructure. Countries such as Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia are experiencing market expansion due to their large patient populations and supportive government initiatives.

Application Insights

Epilepsy held the largest market share of 58.08% in 2024, driven by the high prevalence of drug-resistant epilepsy cases across the region. VNS therapy is widely recognized as an effective adjunctive treatment for patients with refractory epilepsy who do not respond to conventional antiepileptic drugs. The increasing burden of epilepsy, particularly in countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, along with rising awareness about advanced treatment options, has significantly contributed to market growth. According to NIH, in 2023, the prevalence of epilepsy in Mexico is 3.9 to 41:1,000 inhabitants, 3.9 to 41 per 1,000 persons in rural regions, and 3.49 to 44.3 per 1,000 persons in urban areas. In addition, supportive government initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and the launch of new devices have further fueled the adoption of VNS therapy. For instance, in February 2023, LivaNova PLC introduced SenTiva DUO, an Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) equipped with a dual-pin header designed to deliver VNS Therapy for managing drug-resistant epilepsy. The growing demand for minimally invasive and long-term treatment solutions is expected to sustain epilepsy's dominant market position in the coming years.

The depression segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by the rising prevalence of treatment-resistant depression and increasing awareness of neuromodulation therapies as an effective alternative for patients who do not respond to conventional antidepressant medications. Countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are experiencing a surge in mental health disorders due to factors such as urbanization, economic stress, and social changes. For instance, as per data published by NIH in April 2023, Brazil has the highest number of cases of depression among all countries in the world, affecting 9.3% of the population. The highest prevalence of depression is noted in the female population. In addition, growing efforts by healthcare organizations to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and improve access to innovative treatments are encouraging more patients to seek VNS therapy, positioning the segment for rapid growth in the forecast years.

Product Insights

Implantable VNS device held the largest market share in 2024. Implantable VNS devices are recognized for providing sustained symptomatic relief for patients suffering from drug-resistant epilepsy and depression. The devices deliver continuous, adjustable electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, which helps reduce seizure frequency and improve mood regulation in patients. This long-term effectiveness makes them a preferred option over non-invasive VNS devices. According to The University of Chicago Medical Center studies, approximately 30% of epilepsy patients do not respond to traditional anti-epileptic medications. Latin American countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina have reported a rising incidence of drug-resistant epilepsy, increasing the demand for implantable VNS devices as a viable treatment solution. The launch of advanced implantable VNS devices, such as AspireSR by LivaNova, which features closed-loop systems for automatic seizure detection and stimulation adjustment, has further enhanced the device's effectiveness. These innovative technologies improve patient outcomes by providing real-time therapy customization, boosting device adoption rates.

“VNS  Therapy helped bring my seizures under better control, and I feel like I’ve been given a second chance at life.”- Epilepsy Patient.

The external VNS device segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 13.47% during the forecast period. This rapid growth is driven by increasing demand for non-invasive neuromodulation therapies, the rising prevalence of neurological disorders, and continuous technological advancements in external VNS devices. External VNS devices offer a non-surgical alternative to traditional implantable devices, making them highly attractive to patients seeking minimally invasive treatments. The devices are applied externally through the skin, reducing the risks associated with surgery, such as infections or implant complications. External VNS devices have been adopted for managing migraine headaches and treatment-resistant depression. Devices such as gammaCore by electroCore, Inc. for migraine and cluster headache treatment show positive clinical outcomes in pain reduction.

Biomaterial Insights

The metallic segment held the largest market share in 2024 a. This growth is attributed to the increasing adoption of titanium and other biocompatible metals in producing implantable VNS devices. Metallic biomaterials offer high strength, durability, and corrosion resistance, making them ideal for long-term medical implants. In addition, advancements in metal surface coatings and nanotechnology have enhanced the biocompatibility and performance of metallic implants. The rising demand for implantable VNS devices for drug-resistant epilepsy and depression treatment, coupled with ongoing innovations in miniaturized and lightweight metal-based components, is expected to accelerate further the growth of the metallic biomaterial segment in the market.

The polymeric segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by its widespread use in the manufacturing of VNS devices. Polymeric biomaterials, such as silicone, polyurethane, and Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), are highly preferred due to their biocompatibility, flexibility, durability, and resistance to corrosion. These materials play a critical role in implantable VNS devices by ensuring long-term performance and minimizing the risk of adverse patient reactions. In addition, the increasing demand for minimally invasive neuromodulation devices and technological advancements in biomaterial engineering have further propelled the growth of this segment. The ongoing development of next-generation polymeric biomaterials with enhanced properties, such as drug-eluting capabilities and improved biocompatibility, is expected to strengthen the segment's growth in the forecast years.

End-use Insights

Hospitals held the largest market share in 2024 due to the increasing prevalence of neurological disorders such as epilepsy, depression, and migraine and the availability of advanced treatment facilities. Hospitals serve as the primary point of care for patients undergoing implantable VNS procedures, which require specialized infrastructure, skilled healthcare professionals, and post-surgical care. Hospitals in Latin America, particularly in countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, are adopting advanced neuromodulation technologies. These facilities have advanced surgical equipment and diagnostic imaging systems for performing VNS implantation procedures. The availability of such infrastructure makes hospitals the preferred choice for surgical VNS implants and non-invasive VNS therapy.

Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs) is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period. This rapid growth is driven by the rising demand for minimally invasive procedures, increasing healthcare accessibility, and the cost-effective nature of ASCs compared to traditional hospitals. ASCs offer affordable surgical procedures compared to hospitals, making them a preferred choice for patients seeking VNS implantation surgeries. The lower operational costs of ASCs significantly reduce the overall expenses of neuromodulation procedures, which is particularly important in regions with limited healthcare expenditure. The rising preference for outpatient and minimally invasive surgeries is boosting the adoption of VNS procedures in ASCs. Technological advancements in implantable VNS devices such as closed-loop systems, miniaturized devices, wireless programming, and remote monitoring have made procedures faster, safer, and more efficient, making them well-suited for ambulatory care settings.

Country Insights

The vagus nerve stimulation market in Brazil is rising. Brazil has seen a rise in neurological conditions such as epilepsy and depression. VNS therapy has emerged as an effective treatment, especially for patients who are resistant to conventional therapies. This growing patient population has led to a higher demand for vagus nerve stimulation devices. As per data published by NIH in April 2023, Brazil has the highest number of cases of depression among all countries in the world, affecting 9.3% of the population. The highest prevalence of depression is noted in the female population. The growing incidence of neurological disorders is further fueling the market growth in Brazil.

Argentina vagus nerve stimulation market isexpected to grow significantly during the forecast period.There is an increasing awareness among healthcare professionals and patients in Argentina about the benefits of VNS therapy. Educational initiatives and positive clinical outcomes have contributed to a broader acceptance of VNS as a viable treatment option for specific neurological conditions. The growing geriatric population, rising healthcare expenditure, presence of key players, and increasing prevalence of neurological disorders contribute to market growth. According to the Central Intelligence Agency, in 2023, 12.66% of the population in Argentina will be aged 65 and above.

Key Latin America Vagus Nerve Stimulation Company Insights

Key players operating in the market are undertaking various initiatives to strengthen their market presence and increase the reach of their products and services. Strategies such as expansion activities and partnerships are key in propelling market growth.

Recent Developments

• In February 2025, Pulsetto, a Vilnius-based health tech startup specializing in vagus nerve stimulation devices, secured a USD 2.09 million investment from Scalewolf, a Lithuanian dual-use technology accelerator and venture capital fund. This funding aims to enhance Pulsetto's wearable technology for defense applications, supporting military personnel in managing stress and mental fatigue.

• In December 2024, LivaNova PLC presented multiple scientific posters at the American Epilepsy Society (AES) 2024 Annual Meeting, held from December 6-10 in Los Angeles, highlighting its commitment to advancing epilepsy treatment. The presentations focused on the company's therapies and technologies for managing drug-resistant epilepsy, particularly the real-world evidence study, "CORE-VNS: Comprehensive Outcomes Registry in Subjects With Epilepsy Treated With Vagus Nerve Stimulation Therapy.

• In July 2024, Soterix Medical Inc. announced receiving 510(k) clearance from the U.S. FDA for its MEGA-IOM Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Monitoring (IOM) system. This advanced system enhances surgical outcomes by providing integrated control over central and peripheral nervous systems, thereby reducing postoperative risks.

• In February 2023, LivaNova PLC introduced SenTiva DUO, an Implantable Pulse Generator (IPG) equipped with a dual-pin header designed to deliver VNS Therapy for managing drug-resistant epilepsy.

Latin America Vagus Nerve Stimulation Market Report Scope

Latin America Vagus Nerve Stimulation Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth and provides an analysis of the latest trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the Latin America vagus nerve stimulation market report based on product, application, biomaterial, end-use, and region:

• Product Outlook (Revenue USD Million; 2018 - 2030)

  • Implantable VNS Device

  • External VNS Device

• Application (Revenue USD Million; 2018 - 2030)

  • Epilepsy

  • Migraine

  • Depression

• Biomaterial Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Metallic

  • Ceramics

  • Polymeric

• End-use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Hospitals

  • Neurology Clinics

  • Ambulatory Surgical Centers

  • Research Centers

• Country Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

    • Mexico

    • Chile

    • Colombia