New Parkinson’s disease device could help thousands of people live a better life
Worldwide, over 50,000 people develop Parkinson’s disease each year, while essential tremor affects “several million” people, most over the age of 40.
“There are no cures for Parkinson’s disease or essential tremor, but finding better ways to manage symptoms is essential for patients,” Dr William Maisel, acting director of the Office of Device Evaluation at the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, said in the news release.
“This new device adds to the array of treatment options to help people living with Parkinson’s and essential tremor enjoy better, more productive lives,” he said.
*********** New ************
Enjoy 13 anti-aging wonders in ONE.
Feel stronger, think smarter, and feel marvelous with the best anti-aging supplement that could free you from all the others! If the bottles are piling up and the medicine cabinet is spilling over...you need to know about Healthy Aging. It can help you...
• Recharge your brain to avoid those "senior moments"...
• Keep a healthy heart into your 70s, 80s, and even your 90s...
• Support your mind, body, and heart with one supplement...
Click here for more…
****************************
The FDA approved the new device based on sound evidence, but warn that it comes with risks
The device is consists of a small, rechargeable battery-powered “pulse generator” implanted under the skin. Wire leads from the generator lead to specific brain locations, depending on the illness under treatment. People trained in using the devices can adjust the pulse generator’s effects as needed, the FDA said.
The FDA approved the device, called The Brio Neurostimulation System, based on the results of two clinical trials, one involving 136 patients with Parkinson’s disease who used the device for three months, and another involving 127 patients with essential tremor who used it for six months. In both studies, medications had already failed to control patients’ symptoms, the FDA said.
“Both groups showed statistically significant improvement on their primary effectiveness endpoint when the device was turned on, compared to when it was turned off,” the agency said.
The device doesn't come without risk, including intracranial bleeding which can lead to stroke, paralysis or death, the FDA said. Infection and device dislocation are also potential risks.
“Brio Neurostimulation System is the second device approved by the FDA for Parkinson’s and essential tremor,” the agency said. “The first device, Medtronic’s Activa Deep Brain Stimulation Therapy System, was approved in 1997 for tremor associated with essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. In 2002, the indications were expanded to include the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.”