The first implant in the country took place at Erasmus MC in Rotterdam as part of a clinical study. Investigators are currently evaluating the technology in an ongoing study in Belgium, Australia and now The Netherlands, where Salvia is based (in Eindhoven). In addition to Erasmus MC, the company added Antonius Hospital Utrecht/Nieuwegein to the study.
Salvia develops a migraine therapy comprised of two ultra-thin implants. One is placed just beneath the skin of the forehead and another just beneath the skin at the back of the head. Patients receive an external, wearable device that allows them to activate the therapy with the press of a button.
The unique neuromodulation implant aims to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks. It delivers gentle electrical pulses to the nerves associated with the condition.
“What is Salvia’s ultimate goal? “We are committed to providing people with severe migraine a new treatment option through their neurologist,” said Dr. Wim Pollet, medical director at Salvia BioElectronics. “Our mission is to help people with chronic migraine reclaim control over their lives.”
Salvia also has a wearable, external device under development called the “MySalvia” device. It interfaces with the implant to activate the neuromodulation therapy, tailored to the patient’s needs. The company also has an app under development aiming to enable patients to monitor progress and access personalized migraine treatments.
