The EnteroMedics' Maestro System is officially the first obesity-fighting device to be approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration. The device is likened by EnteroMedics as being similar to a pacemaker, and is designed to block nervous system signals that make you hungry.
The system uses something called VBLOC vagal blocking therapy, which interferes with signals along the vagus nerve, which regulates the digestive system. The result is that patients' feelings of hunger are reduced, and they feel satiated. The system is connected to a battery which the patient must regularly recharge.
For now, EnteroMedics' Maestro System is only going to be deployed at specially chosen clinics by certified surgeons. If it shows further promise, this device could change the lives of people who struggle to lose weight.
Appetite-Thwarting Implants
EnteroMedics' MaestroSystem Blocks Nervous System Appetite Signals
Trend Themes
1. VBLOC Vagal Blocking Therapy - VBLOC vagal blocking therapy to interfere with signals along the vagus nerve creates an opportunity for innovation and growth in medical technology and neurology.
2. Implantable Obesity-fighting Devices - Implantable obesity-fighting devices are becoming a new trend in the healthcare industry, creating an opportunity for innovation in bariatric medicine, medical devices and biotechnology.
3. Neurotechnology for Appetite Control - Neurotechnology as a means of controlling appetite represents a significant trend in healthcare innovation, creating disruptive opportunities in neuroscience and medical technology.
Industry Implications
1. Medical Technology - The development of EnteroMedics' Maestro System as an implantable device for obesity-fighting creates opportunities for innovation in medical technology and bariatric medicine.
2. Biotechnology - The use of VBLOC vagal blocking therapy presents a disruptive opportunity for innovation in biotechnology and neuroscience, providing solutions that can help reduce obesity and related diseases.
3. Neurology - The emergence of neurotechnology for appetite control imposes new trends in neurology and creates an opportunity for innovation in medical technology and neuroscience.