Navzer Engineer of MicroTransponder Honored as CNS Innovator of the Year for Vivistim Breakthrough

Celebrating Innovation in Stroke Recovery: Navzer Engineer Wins CNS Innovator of the Year

On October 15, 2025, the Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) awarded Dr. Navzer Engineer, co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of MicroTransponder, Inc., with the prestigious title of Innovator of the Year. This recognition emphasizes not only Dr. Engineer's outstanding contributions to the field of neurology but also highlights the potential of his company's groundbreaking medical device, the Vivistim® Paired VNS™ System.

This remarkable device, which received FDA approval for commercial use in 2021, has transformed stroke recovery processes. Designed to assist chronic ischemic stroke survivors, Vivistim is the first intervention that has demonstrated clinically significant improvements in upper extremity functionality, providing users with a chance to regain 2-3 times more movement than traditional intense therapy alone.

The Journey to Innovation

Dr. Engineer's journey began nearly two decades ago during his doctoral studies where he explored neuroplasticity and the mechanisms through which the brain can be rewired for improved information processing. His research led to the development of the Paired VNS™ mechanism—a breakthrough that holds immense promise for recovering stroke patients.

At the recent 75th Annual Meeting of CNS held in Los Angeles, Dr. Engineer presented alongside two other finalists competing for the Innovator of the Year award. The audience, comprising esteemed neurosurgeons from around the globe, voted for the laureate. Dr. Engineer expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, "I am honored and grateful to have been selected as the CNS Innovator of the Year by some of the world's foremost neurosurgeons. This honor is particularly rewarding as my colleagues at CNS understand the profound challenges stroke survivors experience during the chronic phase of recovery."

How Vivistim Works

Vivistim employs an implantable device that enables paired vagus nerve stimulation, which can be activated during physical or occupational therapy sessions. This concurrent approach not only amplifies the benefits of therapy but also enhances neuroplasticity, which is crucial in reestablishing functional pathways within the brain. Patients typically undergo in-clinic Paired VNS Therapy three times weekly for a duration of at least six weeks. Beyond clinic visits, individuals can activate the Vivistim device at home while performing daily activities, allowing for a more integrated rehabilitation experience.

Real-World Impact

The success stories stemming from the use of Vivistim are compelling. Recent studies published in the journal Stroke demonstrate the effectiveness of paired vagus nerve stimulation in long-term improvements in motor function and quality of life for stroke survivors, sustaining benefits even one year after intensive therapy has concluded. This growing body of evidence is reinforcing the viability and efficacy of Vivistim across numerous premier stroke centers and therapy clinics nationwide.

Looking Ahead

Richard Foust, CEO of MicroTransponder, conveyed his pride in Dr. Engineer's accomplishments and emphasized the ongoing importance of innovation in stroke recovery. "His pioneering work on Paired VNS Therapy continues to help stroke survivors reclaim meaningful lives. The growing real-world evidence presented at the CNS Annual Meeting and the enthusiastic reception among the neurosurgeon community reinforce how far this innovation has come in redefining ischemic stroke recovery," Foust stated.

With ongoing advancements in medical technology and a commitment to neuroscience solutions that restore motor function, the future is promising for stroke survivors, thanks in part to advocates like Dr. Engineer and the groundbreaking Vivistim device.

To explore more about the Vivistim® Paired VNS™ System, those interested can visit Vivistim.com/health-pros.

As we honor achievements in medical innovation, the work of those like Navzer Engineer reminds us of the profound impact dedicated research and development can have on improving lives and restoring dignity to individuals navigating the challenges posed by stroke recovery.