FDA clears Stryker’s OptaBlate for chronic back pain

USA – Stryker has secured FDA clearance for its OptaBlate BVN Basivertebral Nerve Ablation System, a major advancement in treating chronic vertebrogenic lower back pain.

This innovative device is designed to address one of the most common and disabling conditions worldwide– chronic back pain– by targeting the basivertebral nerve, a well-known source of vertebral pain.

OptaBlate BVN combines two of Stryker’s core strengths: radiofrequency ablation and vertebral access technology.

The system delivers targeted therapy through a minimally invasive posterior approach, using radiofrequency energy to ablate the basivertebral nerve without the need for long-term opioids or invasive spinal surgeries.

This aligns with modern medical goals of reducing dependency on painkillers while improving patient recovery outcomes.

Equipped with several advanced features, the OptaBlate system enhances both safety and efficiency.

It can create a 1 cm lesion in just seven minutes and features a steerable, curved introducer for accurate targeting.

The system also includes micro-infusion technology that maintains hydration in the treatment area, minimizing procedural issues such as tissue charring or impedance errors.

With its ergonomic design and 10-gauge access tools, the device supports consistent results across a wide range of patient anatomies.

The addition of OptaBlate BVN to Stryker’s Interventional Spine division reflects the company’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge pain solutions.

The system will be featured at the upcoming American Society of Pain & Neuroscience Annual Meeting and is expected to boost adoption among healthcare providers looking for effective, opioid-sparing alternatives.

This FDA clearance also strengthens Stryker’s position in the chronic back pain treatment market, which was valued at US $2.61 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to US $5.56 billion by 2032, according to Fortune Business Insights.

Rising rates of back pain linked to aging, sedentary lifestyles, and the growing demand for less invasive treatments are key drivers behind this expansion.

From a business standpoint, Stryker’s market capitalization stands at US $150.47 billion. Its stock has already seen a year-to-date gain of 9.6%, outperforming the broader market and its industry peers.