Sam Brusco, Associate Editor01.25.24
Abbott has earned U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval to launch its Liberta RC DBS (deep brain stimulation), which the company claims is the world’s smallest rechargeable DBS device with remote programming. It was approved to treat people with movement disorders.
Liberta RC DBS also needs only 10 recharge sessions a year for most users, according to the company. The device is compatible with Abbott’s NeuroSphere virtual clinic, a connected care technology to communicate with doctors, ensure proper settings/functionality, and get new treatment settings remotely.
The company said the rechargeable DBS implant is about the height and width of a smartwatch face and is charged using a wireless charger placed over the device, so users can be active while wearing it. The system can be controlled on an Abbott patient controlled or a compatible, secure iOS device.
Dr. Paul Larson, professor of neurosurgery at the University of Arizona, said when their patients choose a rechargeable DBS, it’s commonly based on the device’s smaller size but the tradeoff has been how recharging frequency affects lifestyle.
"The Liberta RC DBS system excels in both areas, as a compact rechargeable device with the lowest recharge requirement of any FDA-approved DBS system,” he told the press. “This achievement, coupled with the integration of remote programming capabilities, is a significant advancement for patients."
"In developing the Liberta RC DBS system, our focus has been on the unique experiences of individuals with chronic conditions like movement disorders," added Abbott’s VP of neuromodulation Pedro Malha. "At Abbott, we're committed to addressing these diverse needs. This system exemplifies our drive to providing patient-first solutions, combining effective therapy, effortless recharging, and remote programming capabilities."
Liberta RC DBS also needs only 10 recharge sessions a year for most users, according to the company. The device is compatible with Abbott’s NeuroSphere virtual clinic, a connected care technology to communicate with doctors, ensure proper settings/functionality, and get new treatment settings remotely.
The company said the rechargeable DBS implant is about the height and width of a smartwatch face and is charged using a wireless charger placed over the device, so users can be active while wearing it. The system can be controlled on an Abbott patient controlled or a compatible, secure iOS device.
Dr. Paul Larson, professor of neurosurgery at the University of Arizona, said when their patients choose a rechargeable DBS, it’s commonly based on the device’s smaller size but the tradeoff has been how recharging frequency affects lifestyle.
"The Liberta RC DBS system excels in both areas, as a compact rechargeable device with the lowest recharge requirement of any FDA-approved DBS system,” he told the press. “This achievement, coupled with the integration of remote programming capabilities, is a significant advancement for patients."
"In developing the Liberta RC DBS system, our focus has been on the unique experiences of individuals with chronic conditions like movement disorders," added Abbott’s VP of neuromodulation Pedro Malha. "At Abbott, we're committed to addressing these diverse needs. This system exemplifies our drive to providing patient-first solutions, combining effective therapy, effortless recharging, and remote programming capabilities."