Activa RC Neurostimulator

Overview

The Activa^® Re-Chargeable (RC) neurostimulator is one of the next-generation Activa family of products for patients requiring Medtronic Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) therapy.

Medtronic DBS is a proven and effective therapy for reducing troublesome motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and essential tremor. It can also significantly improve overall quality-of-life for patients with these conditions.¹

The Activa RC neurostimulator is the world’s first rechargeable DBS neurostimulator.

Key Features

The Activa RC neurostimulator contains an electronic circuit-board and is powered by a rechargeable battery that can last for up to 9 years. This means that most Medtronic DBS patients with an Activa RC device will be free from replacement surgeries for nearly a decade. The patient’s only task is to choose between daily or weekly battery recharge options with the Activa Patient Programmer.

Size

The Activa RC neurostimulator is discreet and unobtrusive, with a similar size and shape to a cardiac pacemaker. It has a volume of just 22 cubic centimetres and weighs a mere 40 grams. This small size improves patient comfort and is an ideal option for children, women, or patients with low body weight.

Placement

The small, sealed Activa RC neurostimulator is surgically implanted under the skin, just below the collarbone or in the abdominal area. Here, it is connected to the other components of the Medtronic DBS System.

These other Medtronic DBS Therapy System components include:

• The Medtronic DBS Lead – The Medtronic DBS Lead consists of four cylindrical electrodes. It is stereotactically implanted with millimetre accuracy in the desired target region of the brain.

• The Medtronic Extension – The new flexible Medtronic DBS Extension connects the Medtronic DBS Lead to the Activa RC neurostimulator. For additional comfort, and to accommodate natural body movement, this is also placed under the skin.

Once the implanting procedure has taken place, the therapy is controlled by an external Activa Patient Programmer which ensures that the Activa RC neurostimulator produces optimal clinical effects. To trigger these effects, the Activa RC neurostimulator sends electronic signals to the implanted Medtronic DBS Lead. The lead electrodes stimulate the defective areas of the brain, alleviating troublesome symptoms.

The new Activa RC and Activa PC family offers a complete range of solutions for different types of patients.

Reference

1. Deuschl G et al. NEJM 2006.

Section Navigation

• About DBS Therapy
• What Is It?
• Our DBS Therapy Products
  • Activa PC Neurostimulator
  • Activa RC Neurostimulator
  • Soletra Neurostimulator
  • Kinetra Neurostimulator
  • Activa Patient Programmer
  • Access Patient Controller
  • Access Review Patient Controller
• Benefits and Risks

• Personal Stories

Additional information