First patient in the Netherlands receives innovative chronic migraine implant
The first patient in the Netherlands has been treated with an innovative implant designed to address chronic migraine, marking a significant milestone in ongoing clinical research. The procedure was conducted at Erasmus MC in Rotterdam as part of a clinical trial investigating a promising new therapy.
The therapy, developed by Dutch company Salvia BioElectronics, involves implanting two ultra-thin devices beneath the skin — one near the forehead and the other near the back of the head. These implants emit gentle electrical pulses aimed at nerves involved in migraine attacks. A wearable external device allows patients to activate the therapy with the push of a button, potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine episodes.
The technology, known as neuromodulation, has been successfully used for decades to treat other neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy, and has shown positive results in treating cluster headaches.
"Our nervous system uses electrical signals to control how our body moves, feels, and functions," said Prof. Dr. Frank Huygen, Chair of Anesthesiology at Erasmus MC, who performed the first implantation. "In migraines, these signals can become imbalanced. Neuromodulation can help correct this disruption and restore balance."
Salvia BioElectronics has been developing the migraine therapy since 2017 at the High Tech Campus in Eindhoven. While pilot studies have yielded promising results, further research is needed to confirm its long-term effectiveness and safety. The RECLAIM study, which includes participants from Erasmus MC and St. Antonius Ziekenhuis in Utrecht/Nieuwegein, is being conducted in the Netherlands as well as Belgium and Australia.
Dr. Harold Nijhuis, anesthesiologist and pain specialist at St. Antonius Ziekenhuis, emphasized the potential of neuromodulation for patients who don’t find relief from conventional medications. "For migraine patients who have not responded well to medication, neuromodulation could provide a breakthrough. Early pilot study results have been promising, and we are excited to contribute to the RECLAIM study," Nijhuis said. "This could offer a treatment option that significantly improves patients’ quality of life."
Neurologist Dr. Hans Carpay, a specialist in migraine treatment, underscored the severe impact of chronic migraine, particularly on young women. "Chronic migraine affects one to two percent of the global population, and many of those affected are young women. For patients who do not find adequate relief with current treatments, the condition can severely disrupt work and social life, and in some cases, prevent them from starting a family," Carpay said. Carpay, along with Dr. Emile Couturier, evaluates patients for referral to the study at participating hospitals.
Salvia BioElectronics aims to provide a new treatment option for chronic migraine sufferers worldwide. "Our mission is to offer people with chronic migraine a treatment that gives them control over their lives," said Dr. Wim Pollet, Medical Director at Salvia BioElectronics.
