Image Credit: Boston Scientific
Boston Scientific Corporation received CE Mark approval for use of its Vercise™ Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) System for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. The Vercise DBS System is the first and only commercially available DBS system to incorporate multiple independent current control, which is designed to selectively stimulate targeted areas in the brain. This system is an innovative technology that is designed to provide physicians fine control of stimulation.
“The launch of the Vercise™ DBS System represents a key expansion for Boston Scientific,” said Maulik Nanavaty, senior vice president and president of Boston Scientific’s Neuromodulation Division. “Vercise DBS is the only system on the market able to finely control stimulation with multiple independent current control. This unique technology underscores our commitment to improving patients’ lives.”
The first commercial implant of the Vercise™ DBS System was performed by a team at the University Clinic Wurzburg in Germany that included Prof. Dr. Cordula Matthies, Head of Functional Neurosurgery and Prof. Dr. Jens Volkmann, Director of the Department of Neurology.
“We welcome the Vercise DBS System,” said Prof. Dr. Volkmann. “We believe it represents advancement in DBS technology through flexible and unique programming options. We believe the system gives neurologists the ability to precisely target stimulation based on patient needs.”
The Vercise System is designed to provide comfort, control, and convenience to the clinician’s practice and to patients with Parkinson’s disease. It is intended to minimize side effects of stimulation by controlling current at each individual contact on the lead. In addition, the system is designed to offer unique patient benefits including the longest battery life available for DBS therapy and the smallest stimulator footprint.
“The unique technology offered by the Vercise DBS System provides us with new stimulation options we have never had before,” said Prof. Dr. Matthies. “I look forward to seeing a positive impact in patients’ quality of life.”
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder which affects 6.3 million people worldwide according to European Parkinson’s Disease Association. Deep Brain Stimulators are neurostimulator devices that stimulate specific areas of the brain using electrical signals to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.