FDA clears DFine's new percutaneous radiofrequency ablation device for metastatic spinal lesions

Oct 4 2010

DFine, Inc., developer of minimally invasive solutions for the treatment of vertebral pathologies, announced today the 510(k) clearance of a new platform extension indicated for the palliative treatment of cancer patients. The product, a percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) device, provides localized tumor necrosis of vertebral body lesions where metastatic disease has spread to the spine causing severe pain and discomfort.

“The device contains a flexible tip that allows for targeted ablation of metastatic lesions in any location within the vertebral body using a unipedicular approach. Delivery of controlled, heat energy to vertebral metastases enables tumor necrosis providing the potential for substantial pain relief.”

Spinal metastasis affects over 400,000 patients and 850,000 vertebrae each year worldwide. Beyond narcotic administration, the primary modality for treating painful spinal metastases is external beam radiation which when effective, may require weeks or months to address the associated pain and disability. In addition, radiation therapy often requires that patients suspend chemotherapy treatment of the primary cancer due to cumulative toxicity. The ability to provide localized RFA of metastatic lesions of the spine can provide immediate and lasting pain relief, allowing these patients an improved quality of life and minimal, if any, delay in systemic, curative therapy of their primary cancer.

Commenting on the announcement, Kevin Mosher, Chief Executive Officer of DFine Inc., said, "This regulatory clearance expands DFine's technology platform, providing additional areas of opportunity and growth for the company. RFA has been routinely utilized to debulk tumors of the liver and kidney, and several studies have shown its efficacy in treating osseous metastatic disease. The unique design of DFine's RFA system incorporates a navigational electrode which helps overcome many of the technical limitations of current devices on the market. Advantages include a tight, well defined ablation zone, and full access to the vertebral body via a unipedicular approach. Early clinician feedback has been extremely positive."

Professor Andreas Kurth, a contributor to the product's development based at University Medical Center in Mainz, Germany, commented, "Bone metastases of the spine are a debilitating complication which are usually treated by surgery or limited dose radiotherapy. This product has the ability to improve the treatment of a significant number of patients with advanced stage cancer."

Dr. Bassem Georgy, Assistant Professor of Radiology at University of California, San Diego, who has published several pioneering papers on the treatment of painful metastatic spinal lesions commented, "The device contains a flexible tip that allows for targeted ablation of metastatic lesions in any location within the vertebral body using a unipedicular approach. Delivery of controlled, heat energy to vertebral metastases enables tumor necrosis providing the potential for substantial pain relief."