Barostim delivers electrical pulses to baroreceptors in the wall of the carotid artery. The pulses activate the body’s baroreflex, triggering an autonomic response to the heart.

CVRx designed the therapy to restore balance to the autonomic nervous system, reducing the symptoms of heart failure. The system holds FDA breakthrough device designation and FDA approval for use in heart failure patients in the U.S.

CMS proposed to keep Barostim as part of the New Technology Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC) 1580. This comes with an associated payment of approximately $45,000 for procedures performed in the outpatient setting. The company also said it’s soliciting comments about the need for a Level 6 Neurostimulator APC.