Abbott has launched its neuromodulation business’ next-generation delivery system, which will be used to streamline the implantation process for electrodes used as part of its Proclaim™ DRG neurostimulation system. The new system is intended to streamline the procedure when doctors implant the system in patients who are suffering from complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) Type 1 and causalgia (CRPS Type 2) of the lower extremities, rare conditions that are considered more painful than childbirth or limb amputation.
The dorsal root ganglion – or DRG – is a cluster of nerve cells found along the spine that control pain signals from specific areas of the body, including the pelvis, groin, hip, knee, ankle and foot. Abbott developed Proclaim DRG therapy specifically to target this cluster of nerves, becoming the first and only DRG technology approved to treat CRPS of the lower limbs.
The DRG neurostimulation system consists of a small battery, often referred to as an implantable pulse generator (IPG), that produces the electrical stimulation, and thin wires, known as leads, that delivers the stimulation to a targeted area, in this case the DRG. Once implanted, targeted stimulation in this area can help address symptoms by disrupting pain signals before they can reach the spinal cord or brain. Four out of five people using Abbott’s Proclaim DRG neurostimulation system for their CRPS have reported significant pain relief, with an average 81% reported drop in pain intensity.
The delivery system is an important part of the Proclaim DRG system because it enables physicians to carefully navigate and access the precise anatomy of the DRG when placing the system’s electrodes. Designed for ease of use, the next-generation delivery system offers enhanced durability and maneuverability, which can streamline the implant procedure.
“Because of the distinct position of the dorsal root ganglion near the spinal cord, it can be challenging to proficiently place leads there, which can limit the number of physicians who feel comfortable performing this procedure,” said Timothy Deer, M.D., DABPM, president and chief executive officer of the Spine and Nerve Centers of the Virginias in Charleston, W.Va.”The improved design of the new delivery system enhances maneuverability for physicians – potentially allowing more patients to experience the life-changing benefits of DRG stimulation.”
Placing a DRG lead involves accessing the epidural space with a needle and maneuvering the lead toward the DRG under image guidance. This cutting-edge delivery system is intended to allow physicians to implant the DRG system more efficiently.
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“Research shows treating CRPS with targeted DRG neurostimulation results in significantly better outcomes in terms of pain relief and functional improvements than traditional spinal cord stimulation approaches, said Allen Burton, M.D., medical director of neuromodulation at Abbott. “Abbott is continually working to improve DRG technology to better assist physicians in improving patient outcomes. The easier the procedure, the more patients will benefit from it, helping them to live more active, fuller lives with their chronic pain under control.”
Considered the world’s most painful chronic condition, CRPS is the result of the body overreacting to an injury or surgery and producing far greater pain signals and inflammation than is normal. CRPS is categorized as either Type 1 (also called reflex sympathetic dystrophy), which occurs without any detectable nerve damage, and Type 2 (also called causalgia), which happens after known nerve damage. While many affected by CRPS will have mild symptoms that can gradually improve over several months or years, some will suffer from long-term, severe pain and disability.
