Neuros Medical has announced the successful implantation of its Altius Direct Electrical Nerve Stimulation System in the US, designed for treating chronic post-amputation pain.
The Altius System, approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is specifically intended for lower limb amputees to manage pain without relying on opioids.
The initial commercial implant was carried out at Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital in Dallas, Texas. The device offers a non-opioid alternative for amputees who have not responded to conventional treatments.
Neuros Medical president and CEO David Veino said: “The first commercial implantation of the Altius System represents a significant advancement in the treatment of a large unmet medical need in chronic post-amputation pain and a critical step forward for expanding new indications for neuromodulation therapies.
“We are proud to offer new hope to patients who have limited options for durable pain relief.”
The Altius System utilises Neuros Medical’s patented technology to inhibit pain signals from peripheral nerves at the amputation site, preventing them from reaching the central nervous system. It features a nerve cuff electrode positioned around the affected nerve and an implantable pulse generator (IPG).
Patients can control their treatment, activating a 30-minute session as required for pain relief.
Over two million individuals in the US are estimated to live with major limb amputations, with up to 80% experiencing chronic post-amputation pain. The Altius System aims to address this issue by providing patient-controlled, on-demand relief that directly targets nerve pain.
The components of the Altius System include an IPG, one or two implanted cuff electrodes with leads, a battery pack and charger, a patient-operated controller, and a programmer wand for healthcare provider communication. The electrode wraps around the target nerve in the amputated limb, and the IPG receives signals from the controller to deliver high-frequency alternating current (HFAC) to alleviate pain.
Earlier this month, Neuros Medical secured $56m in a Series D financing round. The funds will facilitate the US commercialisation and further development of its FDA-approved, non-opioid treatment for chronic post-amputation pain.
EQT Life Sciences led the financing round, with participation from existing investors such as US Venture Partners, Osage University Partners, Amzak Health, Sectoral Asset Management, Aperture Venture Partners, and other long-standing supporters.
