Boston Scientific (NYSE:BSX) said it launched a U.S. clinical trial of its Vercise deep-brain stimulation treatment for patients with Parkinson’s disease and touted interim results from a European study of the device.
The Natick, Mass.-based medical device company said the Intrepid trial is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the device in improving motor function and quality of life for patients with the neurological condition. The 1st patient in the trial received the device at Cedars-Sinai hospital in Los Angeles.
The Vercise device has CE Mark approval in the European Union and won a nod from Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration, according to a press release. BSX touts the device as the only DBS system with adjustable current flow to allow doctors to manipulate the current in "fine increments," according to the release.
In a separate statement, Boston Scientific said interim results from a European trial of the Vercise device showed "a significant improvement in motor scores" in data presented at the International Congress of Parkinson’s Disease & Movement Disorders in Sydney.
Preliminary analysis of data from the 40-patient Vantage study showed a roughly 60% mean improvement in motor function after 6 months, according to a press release.
"The Vantage study is a key facet of our DBS program and emphasizes our commitment to advancing therapy through clinical research with the Vercise DBS System," Maulik Nanavaty, Boston Scientific neuromodulation president, said in prepared remarks. "The significance of the reduction in motor scores is a testament to the capabilities of the Vercise System. We continuously strive to develop innovative technologies that improve patient outcomes."
