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Frequently Asked Questions
Will Enterra Therapy eliminate my nausea and vomiting symptoms?Based on results from the clinical study of Enterra Therapy, most, but not all, patients showed some relief from their nausea and vomiting associated with gastroparesis. How large is the Enterra Therapy neurostimulator?The neurostimulator is 2.4 inches (60 mm) long, 2.2 inches (55 mm) high, and 0.4 inches (10 mm) thick. It weighs 1.5 ounces (42 grams). Will people be able to see that I have a neurostimulator?Your doctor will try to put the neurostimulator in a place that is cosmetically acceptable and most comfortable for you when sitting, standing, etc. However, depending on your body build, the neurostimulator may be noticeable as a small bump under the skin. What does the stimulation feel like?Most people report they do not feel the Enterra Therapy stimulation. Call your doctor if you notice any long-lasting pulsating and/or uncomfortable stimulation in your abdominal area. Will I be able to turn the neurostimulator on and off?No. Only your doctor can turn the neurostimulator on and off with the external clinician programmer. Does the neurostimulator make noise?No. When will I notice improvements in my symptoms?Improvement in symptoms may be gradual or immediate. The rate of improvement varies from person to person. Will Enterra Therapy limit my normal activities?Generally, no. However, depending upon where the neurostimulator is placed, the device may hinder sharp bending of the body. Please discuss your physical activities with your doctor and ask how they may affect your neurostimulator. Can a microwave oven or mobile/portable phone interfere with my Enterra Therapy System?No, but do keep at least 4 inches between a mobile/portable phone and the neurostimulator. Will I encounter problems when I pass through security screening devices and theft detectors?When approaching security screening devices and theft detectors in airports, stores, libraries, and other public buildings, request to bypass these devices if at all possible. They may interfere with your neurostimulator function or detect its metal case. Always carry your Medtronic device registration card with you and present it to security staff to obtain clearance. If they use a handheld security wand, ask them to move the wand over the neurostimulator as quickly as possible. Point out the location of your neurostimulator so that testing can be performed quickly. If you must pass through the security screening device or theft detector, follow these precautions:
Can Enterra Therapy be used during pregnancy?The safety of Enterra Therapy for use during pregnancy or delivery has not been established. If you learn, or suspect, that you are pregnant, call your doctor. Does insurance pay for Enterra Therapy?Many health insurance companies pay for Enterra Therapy. Your doctor will request prior authorization and coverage from your insurance company before the implant. He or she will explain your symptoms and Enterra Therapy to the insurance company. You may also need to personally communicate with your insurance company. How often should my doctor check the neurostimulator?A typical follow-up schedule includes office visits at 1 week after surgery; 1, 3, and 6 months after the surgery; and then every 6-12 months. However, your doctor may want to see you more or less often, depending on your situation. What should I do if my nausea and vomiting symptoms return?Because Enterra Therapy is not a cure, you may experience times when excessive nausea and vomiting return. If you have a flare-up of symptoms, do not be alarmed. Symptoms may be related to other health issues; once addressed, the symptoms should diminish. Call your doctor to receive medical treatment. How long will my neurostimulator battery last?How long the battery lasts depends on your stimulation settings. Some people need more stimulation, which drains the battery faster, and others need less. The battery life is estimated to be 5-10 years. What will happen when the neurostimulator battery runs down?As the battery runs down, the system will not control your symptoms effectively and you and your doctor will need to schedule a replacement procedure. Can the neurostimulator battery be recharged?No. The entire neurostimulator, which contains the battery, must be replaced when the battery runs down. How is the neurostimulator replaced?When the battery in your neurostimulator runs down, your doctor will obtain prior authorization from your insurance company and approval for a replacement surgery and then schedule a procedure for you. The doctor will remove the neurostimulator and implant a new one. During the surgery, the doctor will also check your implanted leads to make sure they are working properly. If they are, the new neurostimulator will be connected to the leads that are already in place. If the leads are not working as they should be, they will be replaced too. Whom should I contact in case I have a problem?Your first call should always be to your doctor. If you are unable to contact your doctor, please call Medtronic at: 1-800-707-0933. 
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