Minnesota Patent of the Month – June 2023
Chronic spinal pain affects millions of individuals worldwide, often leading to a diminished quality of life and reliance on pain medications. Traditional treatments, such as spinal fusion surgeries and medication therapies, have limitations and may not provide adequate relief. SynerFuse has developed a novel approach to treating chronic spinal pain by combining vertebral stabilization and neuromodulation stimulation in a single procedure.
Their method presents a unique solution that revolutionizes the treatment of chronic spinal pain. The procedure begins by identifying the targeted vertebral levels for stabilization, which involves securing them with bilaterally spaced fixation rods and pedicle screws. Simultaneously, one or more targeted spinal levels, including dorsal root ganglia, are identified for neuromodulation stimulation. An open access is created, providing direct visual access to the dorsal root ganglia, ensuring precise placement of the neuromodulation system.
The neuromodulation system consists of an implantable pulse generator, electrical leads, and electrodes. The electrical leads, connected to the pulse generator, are routed to each targeted dorsal root ganglion, and electrodes are placed in therapeutic proximity. This strategic placement ensures effective neuromodulation at the targeted spinal levels. Once the procedure is complete, the open access is closed, finalizing the treatment process.
One of the key advantages of the SynerFuse method is its ability to deliver neuromodulation therapy at different stages. It can be administered either before or after closing the open access, depending on the patient’s needs. Moreover, the system allows for monitoring the patient’s pain level post-surgery, enabling timely adjustment of neuromodulation stimulation if necessary.
SynerFuse’s innovative approach also addresses the challenges associated with previous treatments. By providing direct access to the treatment site, this method eliminates the need for lead advancement through the patient’s anatomy. Additionally, the implantation of the neuromodulation system during the spinal procedure offers a comprehensive solution, delivering electrical stimulation during and/or after surgery.
The versatility of SynerFuse is evident in its ability to accommodate various patient conditions. It allows for targeting spinal levels both above and below the stabilized vertebral levels, ensuring comprehensive pain management. The system’s placement along the midline of the spinal column or on one side, coupled with careful routing of the electrical leads, optimizes its efficacy and patient comfort.
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