#Albuquerque #rheumatoid arthritis #SetPoint Medical #Neuroimmune Modulation

Groundbreaking Advances in Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment at UNM Hospital

SetPoint Medical has recently taken a significant step in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) care by successfully performing the first SetPoint® System procedures in New Mexico, specifically at the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque. This innovative treatment is aimed at improving the quality of life for adults living with chronic autoimmune conditions, particularly RA, and represents a unique approach in the medical community.

What is the SetPoint® System?

The SetPoint® System is the first FDA-approved neuroimmune modulation therapy tailored for adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis. Patients who have not had favorable responses or have experienced side effects with traditional biologic or targeted disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can now explore this novel treatment option.

The therapy utilizes a miniaturized implantable neurostimulator that strategically stimulates the left vagus nerve. This stimulation activates the body’s innate anti-inflammatory pathways, promoting better regulation of immune activity linked to RA. One of the most compelling features of the SetPoint device is its convenience; patients can charge the device at home using a wireless charger that is worn around the neck for just a few minutes each week.

Expert Insights

Neurosurgeon Dr. James Botros, who performed the procedure at UNM Hospital, shared his enthusiasm about this new therapy. “Treating rheumatoid arthritis has not traditionally been part of a neurosurgeon’s practice,” he explained. “However, the vagus nerve plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation, and this system allows us to directly engage that pathway.” Dr. Botros looks forward to expanding this innovative collaboration with rheumatology specialists at UNM Hospital.

Dr. Hillary Norton, a rheumatologist and medical director at Inspire Santa Fe Medical Group, referred the first patient treated with the SetPoint System. She remarked, “Despite the variety of advanced therapies available today, many of my patients still suffer from active disease and side effects.