#USA #Lake Oswego #spinal cord stimulation #Prospera SCS #BIOTRONIK Neuro

First-of-its-Kind Study on Spinal Cord Stimulation

A groundbreaking study, published in the influential journal Neuromodulation, provides new insights into the management of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) devices. The research highlights the effectiveness of automatic, daily remote monitoring, revealing how this technology fosters real-time visibility into patient device usage, therapy adherence, and even the identification of patients at risk of becoming "virtual explants"—those who, while not surgically removed, show extended periods of device inactivity.

Background of the Study

As spinal cord stimulators are increasingly prescribed for chronic pain management, the need for a robust system to monitor their use has escalated. Traditionally, patients were expected to self-report issues related to their device, which often resulted in therapy delays, underutilization, and unreported discontinuation. This study introduces a new paradigm in care for patients using the Prospera® SCS system, the only SCS device featuring advanced daily remote monitoring capabilities.

Key Findings

The retrospective analysis investigated 500 consecutive patients implanted with the Prospera SCS system, which is notable for its daily objective monitoring and remote programming features. The findings indicated that:

• - 95.1% of the patients remained implanted for an average of 364 days.
• - 4.9% were explanted, with only 2.0% attributed to inadequate pain relief—a stark contrast to historically reported rates.
• - An impressive 96.8% of users actively utilized their therapy, showcasing the improvements enabled by real-time management.
• - Only a fraction of less than 1% were categorized as virtual explants, emphasizing the system's effectiveness in maintaining device activity.

These results signify a pivotal shift from traditional, reactive management to a proactive care model—one that harnesses technology to augment patient outcomes.

Importance of Real-Time Monitoring

Jason Pope, M.D., who led the study, emphasizes the transformative power of remote monitoring in enhancing patient care. “Previous methods lacked the capability to deliver objective data on long-term SCS use or detect virtual explants,” he shared. The study showcases the necessity of real-time data not only in understanding therapy adherence but also in facilitating swift intervention when problems emerge.

BIOTRONIK Neuro's comprehensive approach, which integrates remote support and intervention via the Embrace One™ Care Team, decreases the reliance on in-person visits while also optimizing functions through rapid, remote assistance. This innovative strategy may drastically improve the overall quality of life for patients living with chronic pain.

Brief Overview of Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation is widely recognized as an effective intervention for chronic pain, utilizing electrical impulses to modulate nerve activity and alleviate pain signals. The Prospera SCS system, with its unique remote capabilities, is changing the landscape of SCS therapy management. Emerging expert recommendations underscore the growing importance of devices equipped with remote monitoring to enhance therapy effectiveness while minimizing the logistical burdens often associated with in-office visits.

Conclusion

Through this pioneering study, BIOTRONIK Neuro is establishing a new benchmark in spinal cord stimulation management—one that advocates for the integration of real-time monitoring to foster proactive patient care. As this technology continues to evolve, it opens up exciting possibilities not just for pain relief, but for the overall enhancement of patient experiences across the healthcare continuum. With the Prospera SCS system, patients are not just managed; they are truly connected to their care in meaningful ways.

In summary, the study makes a compelling case for the transition to remote monitoring systems as essential tools in modern spinal cord stimulation therapy, encouraging future innovations that prioritize patient-centered approaches in managing chronic pain.