New indication approved for Infinity Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) system to improve symptoms of Parkinson's disease.- Abbott

Abbott has announced it received approval from the FDA for a new, expanded indication for the company's Infinity Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) system to include targeting of an area of the brain called the internal globus pallidus (GPi). The GPi plays an integral role in the motor function and can be targeted with DBS to improve the symptoms of Parkinson's disease not adequately controlled by medication. With this approval, Abbott's Infinity DBS is now the only directional DBS system approved for all major targets used to treat movement disorders, Parkinson's disease and Essential Tremor: the subthalamic nucleus (STN), ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) and GPi. It is the world's first and only DBS system operating in these indications on an iOS software platform with Bluetooth wireless technology. Clinicians can streamline the programming process with an iPad mini device using Abbott's new Informity Programming feature to become more efficient in their practice and achieve optimal outcomes with directional leads. Patients can discreetly manage their symptoms with their Infinity DBS System iPod touch controller. "The internal segment of the global pallidus, or GPi, is a well-established valuable DBS target for the management of the motor signs associated with Parkinson's disease, and is a preferred target for many patients, particularly for those with troublesome medication induced dyskinesia," said Jerrold Vitek , M.D., Ph.D., head of the Neurology Department , director of the Neuromodulation Research Program, and center director of the University of Minnesota Udall Center of Excellence for Parkinson's Research. "This approval expands the options for patients to tailor treatment to their unique needs, with the added benefits of being able to target precise areas and utilizing a patient-friendly iOS device"..