FDA approves Medtronic's tablet-controlled pain device

Medtronic has won US approval for, and launched, a pain management implant that can be remotely controlled by a Samsung tablet.

The Intellis system treats chronic pain via neurostimulation, the level of which can be adjusted wirelessly by the Samsung Galaxy Tab S2.

Marshall Stanton, president of Medtronic's Pain Therapies division, said: "Drawing upon our 40-year legacy in SCS, the launch of the Intellis platform isn't just about a new device, but about combining cutting edge hardware with optimal therapy.”

Intellis is the world's smallest fully implantable SCS (spinal cord stimulation) neurostimulator and can also track daily activities, body positions and therapy usage to provide physicians with data on a patient’s mobility and progress.

Dr Dave Rhew, chief medical officer and head of healthcare and fitness at Samsung Electronics America, said: "We are excited to partner with Medtronic in their aim to simplify programming, and streamline therapy management with the Intellis platform.

"Samsung's Galaxy tablets-secured by the HIPAA-ready Samsung Knox mobile security platform-will support future Medtronic therapies and over the air (OTA) software upgrades to ensure clinicians using Intellis have access to the most up-to-date solutions."

The two firms have previously worked together in diabetes, to develop a range of solutions to enhance management of the condition.

Digital inspiration for pharma on mobile, social media, strategy, best practice, regulations and more