Abbott Rolls Out Next-Gen Delivery System for Proclaim DRG Neurostim

Abbott Labs has launched a next-gen delivery system that aims 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 Proclaim DRG in patients suffering from complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) Type 1 and causalgia (CRPS Type 2) of the lower extremities.

The DRG neurostim system consists of a small battery often called an implantable pulse generator (IPG) that produces the electrical stimulation, and leads that deliver the stimulation to a targeted area—in this case, the DRG (dorsal root ganglion). The DRG is a cluster of nerve cells along the spine that control pain signals from the pelvis, groin, hip, knee, ankle, and foot.

Abbott developed Proclaim DRG therapy to specifically target this nerve cluster, becoming the first, only DRG technology approved to treat lower limb CRPS.

The delivery system allows physicians to carefully navigate and access the DRG’s precise anatomy when placing the system’s electrodes. The next-gen delivery system, according to the company, touts enhanced durability and maneuverability.

“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 CEO 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.

“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.”

In January 2024, Proclaim DRG gained expanded MRI labeling labeling approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), enabling patients implanted with it to receive full-body MRI scans.