Vagus nerve electro-stimulation for weight loss

Some recent medical attempts to treat obesity have had limited success- the surgical tie-off of the stomach comes to mind (a very risky method). This was improved upon by the stomach clamp- a rubber ring would be wrapped around the stomach, shrinking it in size, and could be easily removed if needed.

But a new/old method seems to have the most potential- the electro-stimulation of the Vagus nerve. A pocket watch sized device is inserted into the persons upper chest, and electric signals are deliberately and routinely sent to the peripheral ends of the Vagus nerve in the neck. This nerve is critical for the coordination and functioning between the brain, abdomen, and the stomach. Scientists have known for awhile that stimulation of this nerve can shut off the impulse to eat..

Devices that stimulate the Vagus nerve have been in use for almost 15 years- the treatment of depression being one such application. Now, obesity might be felled with the use of this small manually manipulated machine. Premature diabetes, heart failure, and early stroke might become things of the past...
The cost for the procedure is $25,000, but will go down in the near future.

Houston based Cyberonics and Johnson & Johnson are the main groups behind this potential weight loss breakthrough.