Boston Scientific’s spinal cord stimulators endorsed for non-surgical back pain

Boston Scientific's Wavewriter spinal cord stimulator (SCS) systems have gained FDA approval for non-surgical back pain (NSBP) management. This expands the label to include chronic low back and leg pain treatment in individuals without prior back surgery. Nevro and Abbott had earlier secured FDA clearance for NSBP in 2022.

Traditional interventions for chronic back pain include physical therapy and medication, but limitations in efficacy and long-term outcomes drive the need for new approaches. While SCS is established for post-surgery, its use pre-surgery is growing. 

Boston Scientific's expansion into NSBP is supported by one-year data from the Solis trial, showing significant pain relief and improved daily functioning. This approval follows a quarter with flat sales for Boston Scientific's pain franchise.