Medtronic Activa
This article was originally published in The Gray Sheet
Executive Summary
Latest iterations of the deep brain stimulation implant for treatment of movement disorders, set for U.S. debut in June, include the Activa RC rechargeable system and Activa PC primary cell non-rechargeable device, both of which incorporate advanced programming and therapy monitoring functions, Medtronic announces May 21. The "next-generation" devices, which provide bi-lateral brain stimulation and treat symptoms of advanced Parkinson's disease and essential tremor, were recently approved via PMA supplement and are the "smallest available," the firm claims. The Activa PC in particular is 20% smaller than previous versions with "similar battery life." The first Activa system was approved in the U.S. in 1997 for treatment of essential and Parkinson's tremor