"Oh, the places you’ll go..."
-Dr. Seuss (1990)
These five simple words, read to -- or by-- most every child, parent or recent graduate for the last 30-plus years, are at the very heart of what powers most of us through life. Our desire to explore new worlds, meet new people, and accomplish great things is what pulls our collective warm feet from under those covers and places them on the cold floor to start the day.
Those same five simple words, taken to heart by every person who contributes to Abbott's neuromodulation business, likewise form the very spine of what fuels our mission. Our passion is to design devices and systems that make it possible for many people with chronic pain and movement disorders to regain the ability to pull their collective feet from under their covers and re-engage with the rest of the world, whether that is in their own backyard or around the world.
…Like Running Down the Hallway…
While being able to jog a hundred feet down a corridor might not seem to be a monumental achievement for a young attorney, in Jim McNasby's case it ushered in a new stage of his journey with Parkinson's Disease, a beginning that offered him independence he had not experienced in years.
McNasby took his short run not long after his Abbott InfinityTM Deep Brain Stimulation System (DBS) was fully activated. The Infinity System is made up of a pulse generator, implanted under the skin over the chest, and thin wires, called leads, implanted in the brain. Weak electrical pulses then modulate brain activity to relieve slowness, stiffness, tremor or involuntary movements in brain diseases like Parkinson's Disease. The therapy can also be used to restore ability in Essential Tremor.
The leads use advanced technology for excellent precision, providing therapy in the exact areas where it is needed most, potentially helping to maximize control of symptoms while minimizing side-effects. This innovative technology has allowed McNasby and his husband to lead much fuller lives, giving them added independence to do the things they enjoy together and freedom from the daily concerns of well-being, when apart.
The system is controlled with a mobile digital device, allowing for the ability to adjust settings for personalized and discreet therapy management. McNasby, General Counsel and Chief People Officer of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, has continued to enjoy life since the system was implanted. “I used to be worried about everything, all day. I had to plan everything out and anticipate what might go wrong and how I'd adjust to it.
"It's freed up my mind, as well as my body. I don't have to waste brain power on routine things. I can spend it on accomplishing more, focusing on everything - and everyone - I want to focus on."
…Or Skiing Down the Mountain…
For years, Kevin Beck had been dealing with chronic pain that had only gotten worse since his foot was crushed as a young man in the Navy. Years later, his leg was amputated below the knee but even that did not relieve the increasingly intense pain that took the form of electrical shock-like sensations ripping through his body, starting from the neuroma that had formed at the amputation site and shooting to the base of his brain in bursts that lasted 5-90 seconds each.
Five to 20 times per day.
Opioids didn't cut it as he still experienced pain and they left him feeling groggy, unable to effectively run his family business, or be a fully functioning member of his family. So Beck went looking for a solution and, with the assistance of his medical team, found the one that would allow him to live the life he wanted.
Chronic pain researchers had been looking into the role of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), a bundle of nerves located at the junction of each sensory nerve to the spinal cord. Pain after nerve trauma, such as seen in Beck's case, is considered ‘causalgia’ which is treated by DRG Stimulation.
The medical team chose Abbott's Proclaim™ DRG Neurostimulation System, the only FDA-approved DRG therapy to treat chronic nerve pain conditions, like causalgia (also known as complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS). The system is designed to deliver low-intensity electrical impulses to the specific junctional area between a peripheral sensory nerve and the spinal cord, known as the DRG. DRG stimulation therapy involves surgically placing a stimulator that targets this DRG structure, thereby relieving pain of the lower limbs due to causalgia.
Abbott's medical technology has allowed Beck to take on numerous challenges and activities that he never contemplated being able to do prior to his device implantation. Perhaps none is more impressive than his role as a volunteer member of the local ski rescue team, where the man with one leg who was sidelined due to debilitating chronic pain, comes to the aid of those who have fallen.
How did the Proclaim System impact Kevin Beck? Best let him explain: "I think the Proclaim system has given me back my life and kept me out of a wheelchair. I no longer worry about the neuromas firing off when I am doing any of these things I love. That technology has changed my life. That's way cool."
…Or Holding the Greatest Treasure…
One man very likely to be reading the words, "Oh, the places you'll go," is Robert, a Marine veteran, lawyer and most importantly to him, father of a young daughter. Over the course of years, a broken leg resulted in nerve damage that caused him chronic pain so overwhelming that he wasn’t confident he could safely carry his little girl.
His interventional pain specialist physicians were hopeful Abbott's Proclaim™ XR recharge-free SCS (spinal cord stimulation) device would make a difference. It is the first upgradeable and recharge-free spinal cord stimulation system with a battery that lasts up to 10 years at low-dose settings without ever needing to charge the system.
After diagnosing the source of his pain to determine if the Proclaim XR would help reduce Robert in the long-term, his physician performed a trial implant, a temporary placement during which Robert would be able to experience the hoped-for pain relief.
"I used the NeuroSphere™ myPath™ app during the actual trial," said Robert. This app is designed to conveniently store pain relief information and assist in communication between the patient and healthcare provider. It is used during the crucial trial period between when the neurostimulation therapy is begun and the decision is made regarding whether it will be permanently implanted.
It allows patients to connect with Abbott support, access educational materials and, most importantly, track pain and related symptom relief progress by giving the patient an easy-to-use tool to chart their experiences throughout this trial period.
"It helped me gain insight to the pain relief I was receiving during my device trial," said Robert. "It allowed me to record my responses to different stimuli, which was helpful information for my doctor." With myPath, Robert could tell his medical team not only what percentage relief he was experiencing, but also what functional goals he was achieving.
Enjoying life with his family, Robert’s neuromodulation device allows him to read to his child and do so much more. "Now I'm able to push her on the swings and play games, I realize that I can have those moments I thought I'd lost forever. I know that she is safe beside me."
…Or Not Going Very Far at All…
Sometimes, of all the places one can travel when relieved of many of the constraints caused by chronic pain or movement disorders, the most eagerly awaited option is to be able stay in your own beautiful backyard. Craig Overman, proud citizen of Newcastle, Wyoming has some of the most scenic views from his house that you could ever hope to see. What he couldn’t see was the hospital – an 11 hour round trip that often required 2-3 days away – where he was treated for his Parkinson’s disease and which was the home base for the medical team that implanted his Abbott InfinityTM DBS System.
When the programming was set and the device was turned on, the improvement happened fast. Almost as fast as Overman found himself walking down the hallway. "Going into the visit where the device was going to be turned on, I couldn't really raise my feet. I just shuffled them. After my doctor did the initial programming, he told me to walk down the hallway. So I tried and I thought, 'Shoot, I can do this.'
"He told me to go faster and I said I can't. He said I could. So I started walking faster and realized that I actually could. It was kind of emotional. Between before turning it on and him turning me loose down that hallway, was like night and day. It was like being confined to a wheelchair and then you can, all of a sudden, get up and walk. It was that kind of satisfaction."
As much as he loved taking on that hallway, Overman was less eager to take on that long drive, instead choosing to take advantage of more Abbott technology. He was ready to be seen remotely in the NeuroSphereTM Virtual Clinic.
Before NeuroSphere, a typical telehealth session would have involved the physician asking the patient, in this case one with Parkinson's, questions over a video call regarding their symptoms as well as responses to medications and then have them perform certain tasks. The doctor would then make a treatment plan, prescribe meds that would then be filled, their efficacy would be assessed over weeks, a follow up appointment conducted and so on.
With the DBS device and the Virtual Clinic, things move much faster and more efficiently.
"The difference with Virtual Clinic is that when I make an assessment, I can adjust my patient's treatment — the 'dose' is a packet of electrons — by pressing a button on an iPad mini," said Dr Binith Cheeran, medical director of movement disorders at Abbott. "And that little message gets sent to a stimulator, which delivers mild electrical pulses to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's. I can assess the effects and titrate the 'dose' immediately.
"I can treat, assess the effect and re-adjust treatment, over minutes," he said. "All of that happens securely over Wi-Fi, without leaving the comfort of your home. This is more than just routine telemedicine, this is like a 'digital prescription'. "
This exciting new world is one that Overman likes living in. "You can see the doctor and he can see you. Everything except the actual touch is just like you're in the doctor's office. We just need an iPhone and the app. My wife aims the video at me so the doctor can see how I'm walking. I can do it from anywhere. Using the app, he can make whatever adjustments are needed and I experience it immediately.
"He has done two major adjustments and I make minor adjustments as needed. He can set up the parameters for me and I adjust within those parameters, usually about every two weeks. I couldn't be happier with how the system works. The remote is very simple. I'm no tech guy so I'm glad it's so easy to use."
Ease of use leads to peace of mind. "The Virtual Clinic takes out all the worry about driving back and forth. The device makes my life so much better by itself but then you take away the burden of travelling, time away and expense, it just makes it better and better."
Oh, the Places We'll Go…
Opening doors to adventures and possibilities that some people with chronic pain and movement disorders thought forever closed, is the mission our neuromodulation team stays focused on at all times.
The results of those efforts are exciting. Evolving technologies that reduce chronic pain and treat movement disorders, while improving communication between patients and physicians and enhancing collection of data that can better inform ongoing treatment.
The inspiration and ability can come from anywhere or anyone. It can be:
Or any number of others who will continue to light new paths and improve more lives through their hard work and vision. The path ahead is an exciting one…
These are the experiences of these people. Individual experiences, symptoms, situations, and results may vary.
The placement of a neurostimulation system requires surgery, which exposes patients to certain risks. Complications such as infection, swelling, bruising and possibly the loss of strength or use in an affected limb or muscle group (e.g. paralysis) are possible. Additional risks such as undesirable changes in stimulation may occur over time. Be sure to talk to your doctor about the possible risks associated with neurostimulation.
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
RX ONLY
PROCLAIM XR SCS
DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION (DBS) THERAPY
RX ONLY
BRIEF SUMMARY:
Prior to using these devices, please review the User's Manual for a complete listing of indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, potential adverse events and directions for use.
INDICATIONS FOR USE:
Spinal column stimulation via epidural and intra-spinal lead access to the dorsal root ganglion as an aid in the management of moderate to severe chronic intractable* pain of the lower limbs in adult patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) types I and II.**
*Study subjects from the ACCURATE clinical study had failed to achieve adequate pain relief from at least two prior pharmacologic treatments from at least two different drug classes and continued their pharmacologic therapy during the clinical study.
**Please note that in 1994, a consensus group of pain medicine experts gathered by the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) reviewed diagnostic criteria and agreed to rename reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) and causalgia, as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) types I and II, respectively.
CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Patients who are unable to operate the system, who are poor surgical risks, or who have failed to receive effective pain relief during trial stimulation.
WARNING/PRECAUTIONS:
Diathermy therapy, implanted cardiac systems or other active implantable devices, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), electrosurgery devices, ultrasonic scanning equipment, therapeutic radiation, explosive or flammable gases, theft detectors and metal screening devices, lead movement, operation of machinery and equipment, pediatric use, pregnancy, and case damage.
ADVERSE EFFECT:
Painful stimulation, loss of pain relief, surgical risks (e.g., paralysis). Implant Manual must be reviewed for detailed disclosure. Refer to the User's Manual for detailed indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions and potential adverse events.
PROCLAIM XR SCS
PRESCRIPTION AND SAFETY INFORMATION
Read this section to gather important prescription and safety information.
INTENDED USE
This neurostimulation system is designed to deliver low-intensity electrical impulses to nerve structures. The system is intended to be used with leads and associated extensions that are compatible with the system.
INDICATIONS FOR USE
This neurostimulation system is indicated as an aid in the management of chronic, intractable pain of the trunk and/or limbs, including unilateral or bilateral pain associated with the following: failed back surgery syndrome and intractable low back and leg pain.
CONTRADICTIONS
This system is contraindicated for patients who are unable to operate the system or who have failed to receive effective pain relief during trial stimulation.
MRI SAFETY INFORMATION
Some models of this system are Magnetic Resonance (MR) Conditional, and patients with these devices may be scanned safely with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) when the conditions for safe scanning are met. For more information about MR Conditional neurostimulation components and systems, including equipment settings, scanning procedures, and a complete listing of conditionally approved components, refer to the MRI procedures clinician's manual for neurostimulation systems (available online at manuals.sjm.com). For more information about MR Conditional products, visit the Abbott product information page at neuromodulation.abbott.
WARNINGS
The following warnings apply to this neurostimulation system.
Poor surgical risks. Neurostimulation should not be used on patients who are poor surgical risks or patients with multiple illnesses or active general infections.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Some patients may be implanted with the components that make up a Magnetic Resonance (MR) Conditional system, which allows them to receive an MRI scan if all the requirements for the implanted components and for scanning are met. A physician can help determine if a patient is eligible to receive an MRI scan by following the requirements provided by Abbott Medical. Physicians should also discuss any risks of MRI with patients.
Patients without an MR Conditional neurostimulation system should not be subjected to MRI because the electromagnetic field generated by an MRI may damage the device electronics and induce voltage through the lead that could jolt or shock the patient.
Diathermy therapy. Do not use short-wave diathermy, microwave diathermy, or therapeutic ultrasound diathermy (all now referred to as diathermy) on patients implanted with a neurostimulation system. Energy from diathermy can be transferred through the implanted system and cause tissue damage at the location of the implanted electrodes, resulting in severe injury or death.
Diathermy is further prohibited because it may also damage the neurostimulation system components. This damage could result in loss of therapy, requiring additional surgery for system implantation and replacement. Injury or damage can occur during diathermy treatment whether the neurostimulation system is turned on or off.
Electrosurgery. To avoid harming the patient or damaging the neurostimulation system, do not use monopolar electrosurgery devices on patients with implanted neurostimulation systems. Before using an electrosurgery device, place the device in Surgery Mode using the patient controller app or clinician programmer app. Confirm the neurostimulation system is functioning correctly after the procedure.
During implant procedures, if electrosurgery devices must be used, take the following actions:
Use bipolar electrosurgery only.
Implanted cardiac systems. Physicians need to be aware of the risk and possible interaction between a neurostimulation system and an implanted cardiac system, such as a pacemaker or defibrillator. Electrical pulses from a neurostimulation system may interact with the sensing operation of an implanted cardiac system, causing the cardiac system to respond inappropriately. To minimize or prevent the implanted cardiac system from sensing the output of the neurostimulation system, (1) maximize the distance between the implanted systems; (2) verify that the neurostimulation system is not interfering with the functions of the implanted cardiac system; and (3) avoid programming either device in a unipolar mode (using the device’s can as an anode) or using neurostimulation system settings that interfere with the function of the implantable cardiac system.
Pediatric use. Safety and effectiveness of neurostimulation for pediatric use have not been established.
Pregnancy and nursing. Safety and effectiveness of neurostimulation for use during pregnancy and nursing have not been established.
Device components. The use of components not approved for use by Abbott Medical with this system may result in damage to the system and increased risk to the patient.
Case damage. Do not handle the IPG if the case is pierced or ruptured because severe burns could result from exposure to battery chemicals.
IPG disposal. Return all explanted IPGs to Abbott Medical for safe disposal. IPGs contain batteries as well as other potentially hazardous materials. Do not crush, puncture, or burn the IPG because explosion or fire may result.
PRECAUTIONS
The following precautions apply to this neurostimulation system.
General Precautions
Sterilization and Storage
Handling and Implantation
Hospitals and Medical Environments
ADVERSE EFFECTS
In addition to those risks commonly associated with surgery, the following risks are associated with implanting or using this IPG:
DEEP BRAIN STIMULATION (DBS) THERAPY
PRESCRIPTION AND SAFETY INFORMATION
Read this section to gather important prescription and safety information.For specific indications, contraindications, instructions, warnings, precautions, and adverse effects about system components available in your country or region, see the approved clinician's manual for those components.
INTENDED USE
This neurostimulation system is designed to deliver low-intensity electrical impulses to nerve structures. The system is intended to be used with leads and associated extensions that are compatible with the system.
INDICATIONS FOR USE
United States:
The neurostimulation system is indicated for the following conditions:
International:
The neurostimulation system is indicated for the following conditions:
CONTRAINDICATIONS
United States:
This system is contraindicated for patients who meet the following criteria:
The following procedures are contraindicated for patients with a deep brain stimulation system. Advise patients to inform their healthcare professional that they cannot undergo the following procedures:
International:
Implantation of this neurostimulation system is contraindicated for the following:
The following procedures are contraindicated for patients that have been implanted with this device:
Diathermy therapy. Do not use short-wave diathermy, microwave diathermy, or therapeutic ultrasound diathermy (all now referred to as diathermy) on patients implanted with a neurostimulation system. Energy from diathermy can be transferred through the implanted system and can cause tissue damage at the location of the implanted electrodes, resulting in a severe injury or death. Diathermy is further prohibited because it may also damage the neurostimulation system components. This damage could result in loss of therapy, requiring additional surgery for system replacement. Injury or damage can occur during diathermy treatment whether the neurostimulation system is turned on or off. All patients are advised to inform their healthcare professional that they should not be exposed to diathermy treatment.
MRI SAFETY INFORMATION
Some models of this system are Magnetic Resonance (MR) Conditional, and patients with these devices may be scanned safely with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) when the conditions for safe scanning are met. Scanning under different conditions may cause device malfunction, severe patient injury, or death. For more information about MR Conditional deep brain stimulation (DBS) components and systems, including equipment settings, scanning procedures, and a complete listing of conditionally approved components, refer to the MRI procedures clinician's manual for DBS systems (available online at manuals.sjm.com). For more information about MR Conditional products, visit the Abbott product information page at sjm.com/MRIReady.
WARNINGS
The following warnings apply to this neurostimulation system.
Pregnancy and nursing. Safety and effectiveness of neurostimulation for use during pregnancy and nursing have not been established. Patients should not use this neurostimulation system if they are pregnant or nursing.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Some patients may be implanted with the components that make up a Magnetic Resonance (MR) Conditional system, which allows them to receive an MRI scan if all the requirements for the implanted components and for scanning are met. A physician can help determine if a patient is eligible to receive an MRI scan by following the requirements provided by Abbott Medical. Physicians should also discuss any risks of MRI with patients.
If any component of the implanted neurostimulation system, such as an IPG, lead, or extension, does not meet the requirements for an MR Conditional system, do not perform an MRI scan. If a system does not meet the MR Conditional requirements, consider it MR Unsafe.
High stimulation outputs and charge density limits. Avoid excessive stimulation. A risk of brain tissue damage exists with parameter settings using high amplitudes and wide pulse widths. High amplitudes and wide pulse widths should only be programmed with due consideration of the warnings concerning charge densities. The system can be programmed to use parameter settings outside the range of those used in the clinical studies. If the programming of stimulation parameters exceeds the charge density limit of 30 μC/cm2, a screen will appear warning you that the charge density is too high. Charge density can be reduced by lowering the stimulation amplitude or pulse width. For more information, see the clinician programmer manual.
Higher amplitudes and wider pulse widths may indicate a system problem or a suboptimal lead placement. Stimulation at high outputs may cause unpleasant sensations or motor disturbances or may render the patient incapable of controlling the patient controller. If unpleasant sensations occur, the device should be turned off immediately using the patient magnet.
Risk of depression, suicidal ideations, and suicide. New onset or worsening depression, which may be temporary or permanent, is a risk that has been reported with DBS therapy. Suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and suicide are events that have also been reported. Therefore, physicians should consider the following:
Poor surgical risks. Neurostimulation should not be used on patients who are poor surgical risks or patients with multiple illnesses or active general infections.
Explosive or flammable gases. Do not use the clinician programmer or patient controller in an environment where explosive or flammable gas fumes or vapors are present. The operation of the clinician programmer or patient controller could cause them to ignite, causing severe burns, injury, or death.
Operation of machinery and equipment. Patients should not operate potentially dangerous machinery, power tools, or vehicles or engage in any activity that could be unsafe if their symptoms were to unexpectedly return.
Device components. The use of components not approved for use by Abbott Medical with this system may result in damage to the system and increased risk to the patient.
Electrosurgery. To avoid harming the patient or damaging the neurostimulation system, do not use monopolar electrosurgery devices on patients with implanted neurostimulation systems. Before using an electrosurgery device, place the device in Surgery Mode using the patient controller app or clinician programmer app. Confirm the neurostimulation system is functioning correctly after the procedure.
During implant procedures, if electrosurgery devices must be used, take the following actions:
Radiofrequency or microwave ablation. Careful consideration should be used before using radiofrequency (RF) or microwave ablation in patients who have an implanted neurostimulation system since safety has not been established. Induced electrical currents may cause heating, especially at the lead electrode site, resulting in tissue damage.
Implanted cardiac systems. Physicians need to be aware of the risk and possible interaction between a neurostimulation system and an implanted cardiac system, such as a pacemaker or defibrillator. Electrical pulses from a neurostimulation system may interact with the sensing operation of an implanted cardiac system, causing the cardiac system to respond inappropriately. To minimize or prevent the implanted cardiac system from sensing the output of the neurostimulation system, (1) maximize the distance between the implanted systems; (2) verify that the neurostimulation system is not interfering with the functions of the implanted cardiac system; and (3) avoid programming either device in a unipolar mode (using the device’s can as an anode) or using neurostimulation system settings that interfere with the function of the implantable cardiac system.
Other active implanted devices. The neurostimulation system may interfere with the normal operation of another active implanted device, such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, or another type of neurostimulator. Conversely, the other active implanted device may interfere with the operation of the neurostimulation system.
Case damage. If the case of the implantable pulse generator (IPG) is pierced or ruptured, severe burns could result from exposure to battery chemicals.
Cremation. The IPG should be explanted before cremation because the IPG could explode. Return the explanted IPG to Abbott Medical.
Component disposal. Return all explanted components to Abbott Medical for safe disposal. IPGs contain batteries as well as other potentially hazardous materials. Do not crush, puncture, or burn the IPG because explosion or fire may result.
Coagulopathies. Physicians should use extreme care with lead implantation in patients with a heightened risk of intracranial hemorrhage. Physicians should also consider underlying factors, such as previous neurological injury or prescribed medications (anticoagulants), that may predispose a patient to the risk of bleeding.
Low frequencies. Stimulation frequencies at less than 30 Hz may cause tremor to be driven (meaning that tremor occurs at the same frequency as the programmed frequency). For this reason, programming at frequencies less than 30 Hz is not recommended.
IPG placement. The IPG should be placed into the pocket, at a depth not to exceed 4 cm (1.57 in), with the logo side facing toward the skin surface. Placing the IPG deeper than 4 cm (1.57 in) can impede or prohibit IPG communications with the clinician programmer or patient controller.
Return of symptoms and rebound effect. The abrupt cessation of stimulation for any reason will probably cause disease symptoms to return. In some cases, symptoms may return with a greater intensity than what a patient experienced before system implantation (rebound effect). In rare cases, this can create a medical emergency.
PRECAUTIONS
The following precautions apply to this neurostimulation system.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Surgeon training. Implanting physicians should be experienced in stereotactic and functional neurosurgery.
Clinician training. Clinicians should be familiar with deep brain stimulation therapy and be experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of the indication for which the deep brain stimulation components are being used.
Patient selection. Select patients appropriately for deep brain stimulation. The patient should be able and willing to use the patient controller and correctly interpret the icons and messages that appear on the screen.
Especially consider the following additional factors when selecting patients:
Infection. Follow proper infection control procedures. Infections may require that the device be explanted.
Electromagnetic interference (EMI). Some equipment in home, work, medical, and public environments can generate EMI that is strong enough to interfere with the operation of a neurostimulation system or damage system components. Patients should avoid getting too close to these types of EMI sources, which include the following examples: commercial electrical equipment (such as arc welders and induction furnaces), communication equipment (such as microwave transmitters and high-power amateur transmitters), high-voltage power lines, radiofrequency identification (RFID) devices, and some medical procedures (such as therapeutic radiation and electromagnetic lithotripsy).
Security, antitheft, and radiofrequency identification (RFID) devices. Some antitheft devices, such as those used at entrances or exits of department stores, libraries, and other public places, and airport security screening devices may affect stimulation. Additionally, RFID devices, which are often used to read identification badges, as well as some tag deactivation devices, such as those used at payment counters at stores and loan desks at libraries, may also affect stimulation. Patients should cautiously approach such devices and should request help to bypass them. If they must go through or near a gate or doorway containing this type of device, patients should move quickly and then check their IPG to determine if it is turned on or off.
Unauthorized changes to stimulation parameters. Caution patients to not make unauthorized changes to physician-established stimulation parameters.
Damage to shallow implants. Falling and other traumatic accidents can damage shallowly implanted components such as the leads and extensions.
Keep programmers and controllers dry. The clinician programmer and patient controller are not waterproof. Keep them dry to avoid damage. Advise patients to not use the patient controller when engaging in activities that might cause it to get wet, such as swimming or bathing.
Handle the programmers and controllers with care. The clinician programmer and patient controllers are sensitive electronic devices that can be damaged by rough handling, such as dropping them on the ground.
Battery care. Batteries can explode, leak, or melt if disassembled, shorted (when battery connections contact metal), or exposed to high temperature or fire.
Long-term safety and effectiveness. The long-term safety and effectiveness of this neurostimulation system has not been established beyond 5 years. Safety and effectiveness has not been established for patients with a neurological disease other than Parkinson’s disease or essential tremor, previous surgical ablation procedures, dementia, coagulopathies, or moderate to severe depression; patients under 22 years; implantation in targets other than the STN for Parkinson's disease and the VIM for essential tremor; patients with an active implantable device; patients requiring MRI.
STERILIZATION AND STORAGE
Single-use, sterile device. The implanted components of this neurostimulation system are intended for a single use only. Sterile components in this kit have been sterilized using ethylene oxide (EtO) gas before shipment and are supplied in sterile packaging to permit direct introduction into the sterile field. Do not resterilize or reimplant an explanted system for any reason.
Storage environment. Store components and their packaging where they will not come in contact with liquids of any kind. Detailed information on storage environment is provided in the appendix of this manual.
HANDLING AND IMPLANTATION
Expiration date. An expiration date (or “use-before” date) is printed on the packaging. Do not use the system if the use-before date has expired.
Care and handling of components. Use extreme care when handling system components. Excessive heat, excessive traction, excessive bending, excessive twisting, or the use of sharp instruments may damage and cause failure of the components.
Package or component damage. Do not implant a device if the sterile package or components show signs of damage, if the sterile seal is ruptured, or if contamination is suspected for any reason. Return any suspect components to Abbott Medical for evaluation.
Exposure to body fluids or saline. Prior to connection, exposure of the metal contacts, such as those on the connection end of a lead or extension, to body fluids or saline can lead to corrosion. If such exposure occurs, clean the affected parts with sterile, deionized water or sterile water for irrigation, and dry them completely prior to lead connection and implantation.
Skin erosion. To avoid the risk of skin erosion, implant components at the appropriate depth and inform patients to avoid touching their skin where components are implanted. The IPG should be placed into the pocket, at a depth not to exceed 4.0 cm (1.57 in), with the logo side facing toward the skin surface.
System testing. To ensure correct operation, always test the system during the implant procedure, before closing the neurostimulator pocket, and before the patient leaves the surgery suite.
Device modification. The equipment is not serviceable by the customer. To prevent injury or damage to the system, do not modify the equipment. If needed, return the equipment to Abbott Medical for service.
Multiple leads. When multiple leads are implanted, route the lead extensions so the area between them is minimized. If the lead extensions are routed in a loop, the loop will increase the potential for electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Abandoned leads and replacement leads. The long-term safety associated with multiple implants, leads left in place without use, replacement of leads, multiple implants into the target structure, and lead explant is unknown. Placement of lead connection in neck. The lead-extension connector should not be placed in the soft tissues of the neck due to an increased incidence of lead fracture.
HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL ENVIRONMENTS
Electrical medical treatment. In the case that a medical treatment is administered where an electrical current is passed through the body from an external source, first deactivate the IPG by setting all electrodes to off, turning stimulation off, and setting amplitude to zero. Regardless if the device is deactivated, take care to monitor the device for proper function during and after treatment.
High-output ultrasonics and lithotripsy. The use of high-output devices, such as an electrohydraulic lithotriptor, may cause damage to the electronic circuitry of an implanted IPG. If lithotripsy must be used, do not focus the energy near the IPG.
Ultrasonic scanning equipment. The use of ultrasonic scanning equipment may cause mechanical damage to an implanted neurostimulation system if used directly over the implanted system.
External defibrillators. The safety of discharge of an external defibrillator on patients with implanted neurostimulation systems has not been established.
Therapeutic radiation. Therapeutic radiation may damage the electronic circuitry of an implanted neurostimulation system, although no testing has been done and no definite information on radiation effects is available. Sources of therapeutic radiation include therapeutic X rays, cobalt machines, and linear accelerators. If radiation therapy is required, the area over the implanted IPG should be shielded with lead. Damage to the system may not be immediately detectable.
Electrocardiograms. Ensure the neurostimulator is off before initiating an electrocardiogram (ECG). If the neurostimulator is on during an ECG, the ECG recording may be adversely affected, resulting in inaccurate ECG results. Inaccurate ECG results may lead to inappropriate treatment of the patient.
HOME AND OCCUPATIONAL ENVIRONMENTS
Patient activities and environmental precautions. Patients should take reasonable care to avoid devices that generate strong EMI, which may cause the neurostimulation system to unintentionally turn on or off. Patients should also avoid any activities that would be potentially unsafe if their symptoms were to return unexpectedly. These activities include but are not limited to climbing ladders and operating potentially dangerous machinery, power tools, and vehicles. Sudden loss of stimulation may cause patients to fall or lose control of equipment or vehicles, injure others, or bring injury upon themselves.
Control of the patient controller. Advise patients to keep the patient controller away from children and pets in order to avoid potential damage or other hazards.
Activities requiring excessive twisting or stretching. Patients should avoid activities that may put undue stress on the implanted components of the neurostimulation system. Activities that include sudden, excessive or repetitive bending, twisting, or stretching can cause component fracture or dislodgement. Component fracture or dislodgement may result in loss of stimulation, intermittent stimulation, stimulation at the fracture site, and additional surgery to replace or reposition the component.
Activities requiring coordination. Loss of coordination is a potential side effect of DBS therapy. Patients should exercise reasonable caution when participating in activities that require coordination, including those that they were able to perform prior to receiving DBS therapy (for example, swimming).
Bathing. Patients should exercise reasonable caution when bathing.
Component manipulation by patient. Advise your patient to avoid manipulating the implanted system components (e.g., the neurostimulator, the burr hole site). This can result in component damage, lead dislodgement, skin erosion, or stimulation at the implant site. Manipulation may cause device inversion, inhibiting the ability to use the magnet to start or stop stimulation.
Scuba diving or hyperbaric chambers. Patients should not dive below 30 m (100 ft) of water or enter hyperbaric chambers above 4.0 atmospheres absolute (ATA). Pressures below 30 m (100 ft) of water (or above 4.0 ATA) could damage the neurostimulation system. Before diving or using a hyperbaric chamber, patients should discuss the effects of high pressure with their physician.
Skydiving, skiing, or hiking in the mountains. High altitudes should not affect the neurostimulator; however, the patient should consider the movements involved in any planned activity and take precautions to avoid putting undue stress on the implanted system. Patients should be aware that during skydiving, the sudden jerking that occurs when the parachute opens may cause lead dislodgement or fractures, which may require surgery to repair or replace the lead.
Wireless use restrictions. In some environments, the use of wireless functions (e.g., Bluetooth® wireless technology) may be restricted. Such restrictions may apply aboard airplanes, near explosives, or in hazardous locations. If you are unsure of the policy that applies to the use of this device, please ask for authorization to use it before turning it on. (Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.)
Mobile phones. The effect of mobile phones on deep brain stimulation is unknown. Patients should be advised to avoid carrying mobile phones in their shirt pocket or otherwise placing them directly over the deep brain stimulation system components. If interference occurs, try holding the phone to the other ear or turning off the phone.
Household appliances. Household appliances that contain magnets (e.g., refrigerators, freezers, inductive cooktops, stereo speakers, mobile telephones, cordless telephones, standard wired telephones, AM/FM radios, and some power tools) may unintentionally cause the neurostimulation system to turn on or turn off.
Therapeutic magnets. Patients should be advised to not use therapeutic magnets. Therapeutic magnets (e.g., magnets used in pillows, mattress pads, back belts, knee braces, wrist bands, and insoles) may unintentionally cause the neurostimulation system to turn on or off.
ADVERSE EFFECTS
Deep brain stimulation potentially has the following adverse effects:
Possible surgical complications. Surgical complications include, but are not limited to, the following: intracranial hemorrhage (which can lead to stroke, paralysis, or death); subcutaneous hemorrhage or seroma; hematoma; cerebrospinal fluid leakage or cerebrospinal fluid abnormality; brain contusion; infection or inflammation; antibiotic anaphylaxis; skin disorder; edema; persistent pain at surgery site or IPG site; erosion; brachial plexus injury (nerves to chest, shoulder and arm); postoperative pain, stress, or discomfort; neuropathy (nerve degeneration); hemiparesis (muscular weakness or partial paralysis on one side of body); ballism or hemiballism (uncontrollable movements on both or only one side of the body); confusion—transient, nocturnal or ongoing; cognitive impairment, including delirium, dementia, disorientation, psychosis and speech difficulties; aphasia; deep vein thrombosis; complications from anesthesia; phlebitis (vein inflammation); pulmonary embolism (sudden blood vessel obstruction); aborted procedures (air embolism, unable to find target, surgical complication, etc.); complications from unusual physiological variations in patients, including foreign body rejection phenomena; pneumonia, seizure or convulsions; paralysis (loss of motor function, inability to move); stroke and death.
Possible deep brain stimulation complications. Deep brain stimulation complications include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Device-related complications
- Stimulation-related complications or other complications
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