The U.K.’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommended the sacral neuromodulation (SNM) system developed by Axonics Modulation Technologies (NSDQ:AXNX) for treating overactive bladder in its latest draft guidance.
Axonics’ system is the only SNM device approved for full-body MRI scans without needing the device explanted, according to the company. The device itself is a neurostimulator about the size of a USB drive, featuring a wireless charging system, a key-fob remote control and a clinician programmer designed to facilitate lead placement and stimulation programming.
NICE wrote that the Axonics SNM system, which costs about $12,560 (£9,660), has a battery that will last for around six years, though there is some evidence that it could last as long as 15 years. According to the draft guidance, Axonics’ platform has the potential to save the U.K.’s National Health Service (NHS) approximately $8,060 (£6,200) per patient, assuming a 15-year life span.
In a news release, U.K. Health Minister Nicola Blackwood called Axonics’ system revolutionary and said it offers a new way for people to manage overactive bladder while going about their everyday lives without worry or disruption.
“Clinical trial evidence seen by our independent committee shows that Axonics can help improve quality of life for people with symptoms caused by an overactive bladder,” NICE director of the center for health technology evaluation Meindert Boysen said in the news release. “This device will last longer than the current non-rechargeable system, resulting in a cost saving for the NHS after six years of use, and, importantly for patients, fewer replacement surgeries.”
