Boston Scientific Launches Spinal Cord Stimulator in Europe

Marlborough, Mass.-based Boston Scientific has launched the Precision Novi spinal cord stimulator (SCS) in Europe. The 16-contact primary cell (i.e. non-rechargeable) device has the CE Mark for the treatment of chronic pain. The enhanced shape of the Precision Novi implant is designed to provide comfort to patients with pain treated using primary cell therapy. Precision Novi is powered by Illumina 3D software, designed to enable physicians to target pain precisely with point-and-click functionality.

Spinal cord stimulators alleviate pain by stimulating the nerve fibers in the spinal cord to reduce pain signals. While primary cell devices are typically larger due to limitations in technology and battery size, the Precision Novi system is claimed to have the smallest high-capacity battery on the market, allowing effective pain relief to be delivered from a much smaller device. The Precision Novi System couples with a wireless remote.

“The small size and novel shape of the Precision Novi implant improves patient comfort and enables a very discreet subcutaneous placement,” said Simon Thomson, MBBS, FRCA , FIPP a consultant in pain management and neuromodulation at Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals, United Kingdom. “The simplicity of the programming software saves valuable time in the operating theatre, efficiently allowing me to achieve and maintain comfortable therapy for my patients.”

The Precision Novi intuitive Illumina 3D neural targeting software incorporates three-dimensional lead location, as well as the conductivity of the spinal cord and surrounding tissue. This point-and-click technology automatically calculates the optimal programming configuration to target the selected pain area. Precision Novi is a also a Multiwave platform capable of delivering a variety of field shapes and waveforms with or without paresthesia (a tingling or pricking sensation), including burst and higher rate frequencies.

“We are excited to expand upon our range of therapeutic solutions for patients suffering from chronic pain,” said Maulik Nanavaty, president of Neuromodulation at Boston Scientific. “The Precision Novi system brings the power of our Illumina 3D Algorithm to the more than 60 percent of SCS patients in Europe who are treated with primary cell therapy.”

The Precision Novi SCS System is not available in the United States.