Methods
To provide a comprehensive review of next-generation cranial nerve
stimulation and neuromodulation techniques for the treatment of
Parkinson’s disease, we conducted an extensive literature search in
major databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The
search was performed using the following keywords and their
combinations: ”Parkinson’s disease,” ”cranial nerve stimulation,”
”neuromodulation,” ”non-invasive techniques,” ”minimally invasive
techniques,” ”clinical applications,” and ”treatment outcomes.” The
search was limited to articles published in English from January 2000 to
August 2021 [14].
The inclusion criteria for articles were: (1) original research
articles, review articles, and clinical trial reports focusing on
next-generation cranial nerve stimulation and neuromodulation techniques
in PD treatment [15]; (2) articles providing detailed descriptions
of the underlying principles, devices, and stimulation protocols
[16]; and (3) articles reporting on the safety, efficacy, and
clinical applications of these techniques [17]. We excluded studies
involving traditional deep brain stimulation, case reports, and studies
without a clear focus on PD treatment [18].
The selected articles were thoroughly analyzed and categorized based on
the type of stimulation technique (non-invasive or minimally invasive)
and the specific cranial nerve targeted (e.g., vagus nerve, trigeminal
nerve) [19]. We extracted relevant information on the devices,
stimulation parameters, clinical applications, and treatment outcomes
reported in each study. The advantages and limitations of each technique
were also reviewed, with a focus on their potential for clinical
translation and implementation [19].