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Pacemaker-like Device Controls Hunger and Fullness
This pacemaker-like device controls both hunger and fullness by blocking the primary
nerve that regulates the digestive system. The Maestro Rechargeable System from
EnteroMedics targets nerve activity between the brain and stomach to control feelings of
hunger. It's indicated for use in adults with a body mass index between 35 and 45 and at
least one other obesity-related health condition who've attempted to lose weight in the
previous 5 years with supervised weight management. Surgeons implant the system's
electrical pulse generator, wire leads and electrodes into the abdomen. It then sends
electrical pulses to the vagus nerve, which regulates stomach emptying and sends sig-
nals of feelings and hunger to the brain. Patients charge the device using external con-
trols and physicians are able to adjust the system's settings to optimize individual
weight-loss results. The findings of an 18-month clinical trial showed the system helped
nearly 160 patients lose 8.5% more excess weight over 12 months than patients who did
not receive an activated system. EnteroMedics says the device will be in limited use at
select bariatric centers sometime this year.
enteromedics.com
