11 innovative medical devices you need to know from 2018

Non-invasive migraine treatment device

[Image from ElectroCore]

ElectroCore launched its gammaCore Sapphire non-invasive vagus nerve stimulator in 2018. The device was the first non-invasive vagus nerve stimulator device to be cleared by the FDA for acute treatment of migraines and episodic cluster headaches.

The gammaCore Sapphire device is portable and easy-to-use and is able to be self-administered by patients as needed for pain. It offers no side effects, unlike pain medications. It is a small, handheld device that has an easy grip and smoother stimulation surfaces for easy placement over the vagus nerve. There are also intensity buttons on the side of the device that allow for therapy adjustments and a larger, brighter display to show status information.

For headache relief, users place the device on the neck over the vagus nerve to stimulate the nerve fibers and reduce pain.

The gammaCore Sapphire can be used for multiple years and has a rechargeable function with a reloadable refill capacity. It is activated monthly through a unique, prescription-only authorization code that is delivered through a radio-frequency identification (RFID) card sent through the mail to the patient.

GammaCore Sapphire is prescribed by a physician and allows for treatment of multiple headaches up to 24 stimulations a day.