Platform Device
MicroTransponder is developing two platform technologies for neurostimulation. One product is an implanted wired neurostimulation system that delivers
electrical pulses to the vagus nerve. Vagus nerve stimulation has been used safely for over 15 years to treat over 60,000 patients with epilepsy.
Another product is the SAINT™ (Subcutaneous Array of Implantable Neural Transponders) System*.
The SAINT™ eliminates the need for an implantable battery or wires. The small form factor of the SAINT™ allows it to be implanted
in a simple 30 minute outpatient procedure. This implanted platform technology will be powered by an external controller. The patient will
be able to use the external controller to adjust the stimulation program based on their immediate therapeutic needs.
*Investigational Device, Not for Sale in the United States, limited by Federal law.
Tinnitus
Description: Tinnitus is the annoying perception of sound in the ears or head where no external source is present, commonly referred
to as "constant ringing in the ears." The American Tinnitus Association estimates that as many as 2 million people in the United States currently suffer from severe
debilitating tinnitus that prevents them from normal functioning on a daily basis. It has become an especially common problem in soldiers returning from Iraq and
Afghanistan who are exposed to loud blasts. The Veterans Administration estimates that over $1.2 billion is distributed annually in tinnitus-related disability payments.
A promising therapy for tinnitus is to use Vagus Nerve Stimulation paired with a range of tones, so the patient can reboot their brain and eliminate tinnitus.
Collaborators: Michael Kilgard, Phd, Dr. Dirk DeRidder
Scientific explanation of VNS for Tinnitus and Stroke
Stroke Rehabilitation
Description: Each year over 800,000 Americans suffer motor impairment from stroke with over 6.5 Million currently affected by this condition.
This condition severely limits mobility and independence of the patient. Economic costs are estimated to be over $60 Billion annually in increased care. Treatment via
neurostimulation of the Vagus Nerve in animals appears to significantly reduce the amount of time it takes to relearn motor functions following a stroke.
Collaborators: Michael Kilgard, Phd, Robert Rennaker, Phd
Status: Expected to begin clinical trials in 2012.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Description: About 5.5 Million people suffer from PTSD per year, and approximately 8% of the US population will suffer
from PTSD at some point in their lifetime. PTSD severely diminishes the quality of life of patients and their loved ones. In addition, PTSD exacts a tremendous toll
on the healthcare, defense, and social services systems in the U.S. About 30-50% of PTSD sufferers are refractory to all current forms of treatment. We have found
that VNS rapidly and completely reverses fear in rats. In addition, the fear response did not return after two weeks, the longest period tested. VNS can be paired
with other tools such as virtual reality software to improve the success of Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Collaborators: Christa McIntyre, PhD
Status: Completed definitive preclinical studies.
Urinary Incontinence
Description: Each year over 33 million Americans suffer from urinary incontinence / over active bladder (OAB). This condition
often limits mobility and independence of the patient, severely reduces quality of life and leads to isolation. Economic costs are estimated to be over $25
Billion annually in increased care. Treatment via neurostimulation of the tibial nerve, just above the ankle has enabled many patients to regain bladder
control and improve their quality of life.
Collaborators: Paul Yoo, Phd
Status: Expected to begin clinical trials in 2012.
Chronic Pain
Description: Each year over 40 Million Americans suffer from chronic pain. They miss over 500 Million days of work, and spend Billions
on doctor visits and treatment. Current pharmaceutical treatment options often have negative side effects and become ineffective over longer periods of use. Over
$2.5 Billion is spent annually on neurostimulation treatments in the U.S., but out of the 70,000 annual trial implantations, only 50% of the patients elect to get
a permanent implant. Of those 35,000; 50% fail in the first year and 70% by the third year. Only 1 in 7 devices is still functioning after 5 years.
Collaborators: Dr. Patrick Dougherty, Robert Spears, PhD
Status: Expected to begin clinical trials in 2012.
