LIFESPAN OF YOUR NEUROSTIMULATOR
When it's time to replace the battery of your neurostimulator, you will need a new device to continue therapy.
The battery life of Activa™ PC or Activa™ SC depends on how much stimulation you're programmed to receive each day. The average battery life is 3 to 5 years.
Activa™ RC, the rechargeable neurostimulator, is replaced after 15 years.*
*Activa™ RC devices eligible for the service life extension and the supplemental limited warranty are those devices sold in the US that have been successfully interrogated with the Medtronic Activa Clinician Programmer prior to reaching End of Service (EOS).
CHECKING THE BATTERY
Your doctor will check the battery level and performance of your neurostimulator at each appointment. You can also check your battery with your patient programmer.
Plan ahead and don't wait for your battery to run out before getting your device replaced.
Tell your doctor right away if you stop getting symptom relief, as the battery may have run out.
REPLACEMENT SURGERY
A surgeon will replace your neurostimulator during a short, usually outpatient procedure. Typically, the very thin wire (lead) that was implanted in the brain stays in place and is connected to the new device.
Information on this site should not be used as a substitute for talking with your doctor. Always talk with your doctor about diagnosis and treatment information.