Devices

 News Release - October 9, 2006

Medtronic Releases ''ADVANCED'' Neurostimulators for Treatment of Chronic Pain

Sophisticated Programming Capabilities Enable Customization of Stimulation to Optimize Pain Relief

MINNEAPOLIS--(HSMN NewsFeed)--Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE:MDT ), today announced the U.S. market launch of RestoreADVANCED(TM) and PrimeADVANCED(TM), two new neurostimulation systems for the treatment of chronic pain. Introduction of these new systems extends Medtronic's market leadership in implantable neuromodulation devices.

The RestoreADVANCED device is based on Medtronic's RESTORE(TM) neurostimulator platform. Introduced in April 2005, the RESTORE neurostimulator emerged as the most powerful and longest-lasting rechargeable device of its kind approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); it is the market leader among rechargeable neurostimulators. The PrimeADVANCED device is based on Medtronic's RestorePRIME(TM) neurostimulator, a non-rechargeable device introduced earlier this year that offers the same coverage, customization, and advanced therapy options of the RESTORE neurostimulator; it is the only 16-electrode, non-rechargeable neurostimulator on the market today.

Both systems are even easier to program with the revolutionary TargetSTIM(TM), Optimizer(TM), and AutoFILL(TM) capabilities, which will greatly aid physicians in targeting each individual patient's specific stimulation area on the spinal cord that provides optimal pain relief, commonly referred to as the "sweet spot."

"The new RestoreADVANCED and PrimeADVANCED systems combine the capabilities of earlier Medtronic spinal cord stimulation devices and now offer easier programming and automated customization of stimulation therapy," explained Jon Tremmel, president of Medtronic's Core Neurological business, which includes Global Pain Management. "These systems are the latest examples of our commitment to meet the needs of physicians and patients with therapeutic technologies that provide an unmatched level of convenience, control, and coverage."

"Treating complex pain is just that - complex; the source of chronic pain is unique to each person," said Thomas Stauss, M.D., of Advanced Pain Management of Wisconsin. "Enhancements offered by these two new devices make it easier for physicians to find the 'sweet spot,' which translates into better therapy delivery for patients."

The RestoreADVANCED and PrimeADVANCED neurostimulation systems are indicated to manage chronic, difficult-to-treat pain in the trunk and/or multiple limbs that is associated with failed back syndrome, post-laminectomy pain, unsuccessful disc surgery, or degenerative disc disease, among others. The device, about the size of a stopwatch, is implanted under the skin. Up to two leads - with eight electrodes each - deliver electrical pulses to the spine. Based on individual patient need, the positioning of the electrodes can be customized to deliver stimulation directly to the target area on the spine, and in doing so, block pain signals from reaching the brain.

Information for clinicians about the new devices is available at www.medtronic.com/Advanced. Patients can obtain information on Medtronic neurostimulation pain therapies at www.TameThePain.com or by calling 1-888-430-PAIN (7426).

Medtronic, Inc. (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology - alleviating pain, restoring health, and extending life for millions of people around the world.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 28, 2006. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

Source: Medtronic

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