Implant Aids Gastroparesis Patients

A neurostimulator implant that delivers mild electrical pulses to nerves in the stomach has been shown to reduce the symptoms of nausea and vomiting and improve the quality of life for patients who suffer from severe gastroparesis and have not responded to standard medication.

In clinical trials, 93% of patients with the implant experienced a greater-than-50% reduction of vomiting episodes, while 66% with the implant experienced a greater-than-80% reduction. The therapy, called Enterra Therapy, is the product of Medtronic, Inc. (Minneapolis, MN, USA). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted the company a humanitarian device exemption for the system, a special regulatory clearance intended to benefit patients by treating or diagnosing a rare disease or condition.

Gastroparesis is characterized by abnormal neuromuscular activity of the stomach that slows the movement of food through the stomach. Some patients with the disorder experience chronic nausea and vomiting that can lead to hydration and malnutrition. An estimated 25% of diabetics have or will develop gastroparesis.



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Enterra Therapy