Abbott Launches IonicRF Generator for Chronic Pain

Abbott announced the launch of the IonicRF Generator—a new device recently cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to deliver a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment for the management of pain in the nervous system. The IonicRF Generator is a radiofrequency ablation device that uses heat to target specific nerves and block pain signals from reaching the brain.
 
The new device is the first Abbott-developed radiofrequency ablation device and is currently approved in the United States and Europe. 
 
“Every patient is different and the source of their pain is unique, making it extremely important to have multiple options available, so treatment can be tailored to individual circumstances,” said Jason E. Pope, M.D., Evolve Restorative Center, Santa Rosa, Calif. “Abbott’s IonicRF is an advanced device platform that targets specific nerves to block pain signals from reaching the brain. One of the most promising aspects of the therapy is its effectiveness in targeting pain in several discrete areas of the body.”
 
Radiofrequency ablation uses an electric current to heat up a small area of nerve tissue to stop it from sending pain signals.¹ Studies have shown that pain relief following a single radiofrequency ablation treatment can last from six to 12 months.² Low back pain is among the most common medical complaints worldwide—and facet joint syndrome, often treated by radiofrequency ablation therapy, is estimated to account for 15 percent of these complaints.³ Radiofrequency ablation has been used to treat pain, such as low back pain and Sacroiliac joint (buttocks) pain, that failed to resolve with conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, injections or medication. 
 
“Most people who are candidates for radiofrequency ablation have tried other therapies, such as medications and injections, with limited success. As a result, they are now seeking an alternative solution that does not require surgery or the use of opioid medication,” said Keith Boettiger, vice president, Neuromodulation, Abbott. “We are proud to be able to provide the first Abbott-designed radiofrequency ablation device engineered to deliver safe and effective pain management.* This is another example of our focus on widening the breadth of our neuromodulation portfolio and keeping patients central to everything we do at Abbott.”
 
*For approved anatomical locations, please refer to the Instructions for Use for full details.
 
References
¹ Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17411-radiofrequency-ablation. Accessed October 2020.
² Manchikanti L, et al. A systematic review and best evidence synthesis of the effectiveness of therapeutic facet joint interventions in managing chronic spinal pain. Pain Physician 2015; 18:E535-E582
³ Pope JE, Cheng J. Facet (Zygapophyseal) Intraarticular Joint Injections: Cervical, Lumbar, and Thoracic. Injections for Back Pain. 129-135. ClinicalKey.com. Accessed October 2020.