Medtronic Inc. on Thursday announced the U.S. and European launch of its newest Activa neurostimulation device — the Activa SC.
The newest Activa device is single-channel, which involves running a lead, or wire, into only one side of the brain to provide electrical stimulation. Other Activa devices, the Activa PC and Activa RC, are dual-channel, which involves inserting leads into both sides of the brain.
The newest Activa device is meant to provide more options for doctors turning to deep brain stimulation therapy as a way to treat advanced Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor. In some cases, a lead might only be necessary for one side of the brain, or it might make sense to use two separate devices for each side, said Medtronic spokeswoman Donna Marquard.
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As with other devices in the Activa line, the Activa SC has a nonrechargeable battery that doesn’t require maintenance for several years. There’s also a programmer for physicians to adjust settings on the device, as well as a handheld patient programmer with an LCD screen that a patient can use to modify pre-set stimulation settings or check the battery status.
Fridley, Minnesota-based Medtronic (NYSE: MDT) has been a giant in the neurostimulation area, but has been facing increased competition in recent years from another Twin Cities medical technology company, Little Canada-based St. Jude Medical Inc. (NYSE: STJ).
