Medtronic's Altaviva: A New Frontier in Urinary Incontinence Treatment

Medtronic, a leader in medical technology, has received FDA approval for its groundbreaking Altaviva implant, designed to treat urge urinary incontinence. This innovative device marks a significant advancement in the field of neuromodulation therapy, offering a more accessible and convenient solution for millions of Americans struggling with bladder control issues.

A Minimally Invasive Approach

The Altaviva system represents a departure from traditional neuromodulation devices used to treat urinary incontinence. Unlike its predecessors, which are typically implanted near the tailbone, the Altaviva is a small device placed near the ankle. This strategic positioning allows for a minimally invasive insertion procedure that can be performed without sedation or imaging.

Medtronic describes the implant as approximately half the length of a stick of chewing gum, easily inserted just below the skin. The device's compact size belies its impressive capabilities: it can be recharged in less than 30 minutes and boasts a projected lifespan of 15 years.

Advanced Features and Functionality

At the core of Altaviva's functionality is its ability to deliver automatic pulses of electric stimulation to the tibial nerve, which runs the length of the leg. This stimulation aims to restore communication between the bladder and the brain, addressing the root cause of urge urinary incontinence.

Brett Wall, president of Medtronic's neuroscience portfolio, emphasized the transformative nature of this technology: "The Altaviva device represents a transformative milestone and ushers in a new bladder control therapy with advanced features."

Expanding Treatment Options

The introduction of Altaviva expands Medtronic's already robust line of neuromodulation devices for bladder and bowel control. It joins the company's established InterStim sacral nerve modulation devices, which include both rechargeable and non-rechargeable implants. Additionally, Medtronic offers the Nuro system, an external, needle-based device that stimulates the tibial nerve through a series of in-office treatments.

Emily Elswick, Medtronic's pelvic health president, underscored the importance of addressing urinary incontinence: "For too long, society has told people it is normal to eventually lose bladder control. We say, 'enough.' What is common does not mean it is normal." She added that the Altaviva device is "designed to provide a simple and effective experience to treat urge urinary incontinence, empowering patients with a technology that supports them in their daily lives and opens the door to renewed hope and improved quality of life."

With an estimated 16 million people in the U.S. affected by urinary urges and involuntary leaks, and only about a quarter of them discussing these issues with a doctor, the Altaviva system has the potential to significantly impact patient care and quality of life in the field of urology and pelvic health.