New Programmer Allows Self-Management of Deep Brain Stimulation

New technology for deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy (Patient Programmer; Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN) employs a user-friendly, customized mobile device that enables participants to manage their treatments for neurologic disorders.  

The new technology consists of 2 components: a surgically implanted communicator and a programmer handset. When individuals want to adjust therapy settings, they hold the communicator over the implanted device and make desired changes using the programmer handset.

“The new Patient Programmer builds out an end-to-end solution between patient and healthcare provider with the DBS Clinician Programmer and Activa Programming Application,” said Mike Daly, vice president and general manager, Medtronic. “With this device, patients gain confidence, as they are able to discreetly manage their DBS therapy no matter where they are.”

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved technology was recently launched and uses a network-connected smartphone with a customized user interface and a 5-inch color touchscreen. The smartphone and system enable a person to share data directly with their health care provider so they can communicate and adjust therapy settings between in-person visits.