Relievant Medsystems announced Alex DiNello as the new president, chief executive officer and as a member of the board of directors.
The company recently received FDA approval of an Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) to begin the surgical multicentre assessment of radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of vertebrogenic back pain (SMART) trial. This is a prospective, randomised, double-blind, sham-controlled investigation evaluating the reduction of pain in patients with chronic axial low back pain with the Intracept system.
“As a minimally invasive therapy for those who suffer from inadequately treated chronic low back pain, the Intracept system has the potential to significantly and positively affect people’s lives,” said DiNello. “I joined the Relievant team because I believe the Intracept system brings a highly innovative, differentiated technology requiring no implant to spine specialists and their millions of patients who suffer from this debilitating and painful condition.”
DiNello brings over 20 years of experience in the medical device industry, including 18 years focusing on spinal therapies and related medical devices. He has extensive product development, clinical, and commercialisation experience including over 60 products successfully launched across the globe. Prior to joining Relievant, DiNello served as vice president and general manager for Medtronic Kyphon. Before that appointment, he served as vice president of research and development for Medtronic Kyphon. He was also vice president of research and development for Abbott Spine and served as vice president of strategic development and research and development at DePuy Spine.
“Alex is uniquely suited to lead the company during this critical phase of executing the SMART clinical study and laying the groundwork for successful commercialisation in both USA and international markets,” said Art Taylor, chairman of the board for Relievant Medsystems. “He is deeply versed in spinal pathologies, is well known and regarded by the spine specialist community and has a proven track record of developing and delivering therapeutic devices to the market. We are pleased to have his leadership during this exciting time for the company.”
