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Clinical Validation of Novel Neuromodulation Technologies: Methodological Considerations for Off-label and Randomized Controlled Trials

Part of Advanced Engineering Principles in Neuromodulation: Next-Generation SCS and DBS Technologies

Details

Date
Thursday, January 21, 2027
Time
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Session type
Pre-Conference Session
Schedule
See this day

About

This course provides a deep dive into the advanced engineering behind next-generation spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) technologies. The morning session spotlights academic leaders sharing foundational concepts critical to innovation in neuromodulation, covering topics such as implantable pulse generator design, electrode technology, novel stimulation paradigms, neural sensing, clinical testing strategies, and the integration of artificial intelligence. During the afternoon, you'll gain insider perspectives from engineers at top companies, as they present cutting-edge technologies recently launched or in active development. This unique structure bridges theory and application, empowering attendees with unparalleled insight into both the scientific fundamentals and real-world breakthroughs propelling neuromodulation forward. Each session features a dedicated faculty Q&A, offering direct engagement with experts. The course is tailored for a broad audience: neural engineers, clinicians, industry professionals, and researchers invested in advancing neuromodulation therapies. Attendees will explore the intricate engineering challenges of modern devices, discover emerging solutions and technologies, and understand how academic and industry innovators are shaping the future of patient care. Focused on the most relevant technological advancements and ongoing innovations, this course delivers practical knowledge that can immediately inform clinical decision-making, inspire new research directions, and support technology development in neuromodulation.

Presenters

  • Prasad Shirvalkar, MD/PhD

    Prasad Shirvalkar, MD/PhD

    Associate Professor

    UCSF · San Francisco, California

    Dr. Shirvalkar is a neurologist and pain physician who both cares for patients and leads the Pain Neuromodulation Laboratory at the University of California San Francisco. He earned his doctoral and medical degrees at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and completed a neurology residency at Weill Cornell Medicine and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where he served as chief resident. He completed a clinical fellowship and postdoctoral training at UCSF, where he was hired as faculty at the UCSF Weill Institute of Neurosciences. His lab studies how the subjective experience of chronic pain is processed in the human brain towards developing novel brain and spine stimulation technology to improve pain and quality of life. He has active clinical and basic science studies to develop closed-loop brain stimulation for chronic pain syndromes.