Medtronic’s Percept is the fourth deep brain stimulation (DBS) system that has been approved by the FDA according to a recent article in Parkinson’s News Today.
The unique feature of the Percept PC Neurostimulator is that it is designed as individualized deep brain stimulation therapy for patients with Parkinson’s disease and other related disorders such as dystonia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and epilepsy.
It is notable that Percept is the first of its kind to record and measure a patient’s brain signals during therapy. The other DBS systems record but do not measure the brain signals.
This concept will enable doctors to tailor therapy more precisely and according to the needs of their patients.
About Percept’s BrainSense™ Technology
BrainSense Technology captures the patient’s brain signal data from leads (thin wires) that are implanted within the brain. A battery and neurostimulator that is similar to a pacemaker are implanted in the abdomen or chest.
The neurostimulator is programmed to send electrical pulses via the leads into brain regions controlling movement, pain, weight, and obsessive-compulsive thoughts. This procedure lessens the effects of Parkinson’s disease symptoms and raises dopamine levels.
The neurostimulator is used with a diary system that allows the patient to track the dosing of their medication and other events pertaining to their illness. The recorded brain signals can be compared to the patient’s symptoms being recorded in the diary. Analyzing brain signals tells the doctors whether the symptoms are caused by the medication losing efficacy or related to dyskinesia (involuntary movements).
Another first for Percept is its usefulness in specific full-body MRI scans. Clinicians and patients now have much wider access to imaging.
The Mayo Clinic in Minnesota will be the first center to receive and implant the neurostimulator.
A neurologist at the Mayo Clinic expressed their desire to help patients regain independence. They believe that DBS will improve a patient’s motor function when compared to treatment with medication alone.
Percept is just one of the many advances during the past few years that are improving the quality of life for Parkinson’s patients.
