Future Projects

Carotid Stent Delivery System

Carotid artery stenosis is the narrowing of the carotid arteries. These are the main arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain. Carotid artery stenosis, also called carotid artery disease, is a major risk factor for ischemic stroke. The narrowing is usually caused by plaque in a blood vessel. Plaque forms when cholesterol, fat and other substances build up in the inner lining of an artery. This process is called atherosclerosis.The aim of carotid stenting is to prevent stroke due to atherosclerosis of the carotid artery. Typical candidates are symptomatic with greater than 50% stenosis of the carotid artery, or are asymptomatic with greater than 60% stenosis of the carotid artery. Carotid stenting is preferred therapy in patients who are increased risk for carotid surgery, where high risk features include medical comorbidities (severe heart disease, heart failure, severe lung disease, age greater than 75 or 80) and anatomic features (contralateral carotid occlusion, radiation therapy to the neck, prior ipsilateral carotid artery surgery, intra-thoracic or intracranial carotid disease) that make surgery difficult or risky. Carotid stenting may be considered an alternative to carotid surgery in average surgical risk patients due to improved outcome. Features that favor carotid stenting include an experienced center and experienced physician performing the procedure.

Neuro Stent Delivery System

An intracranial lesion is a caused by atherosclerosis, and affects the neurovascular arteries that are in the brain. These arteries supply blood with oxygen and other nutrients to the brain to make it function properly. An intracranial lesion occurs when the inner walls of the arteries thicken due to a buildup of cholesterol, fatty deposits, calcium, and other elements. This material is known as plaque. As plaque forms, the vessel narrows.When the vessel narrows, blood flow through the vessel is reduced so less oxygen and other nutrients reach the brain. Complete blockage of a neurovascular artery can result in a stroke. Anyone who has symptoms of severe headaches should see a doctor promptly. Treatment options for strokes that are caused by intracranial lesions have improved in recent years. Many stroke patients are now able to benefit from a new treatment option. Several factors increase the risk of getting atherosclerosis in the neurovascular arteries. These factors include a history of smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure, being overweight, and a family history of stroke or heart disease. Neurovascular stents are devices that can help to reduce the risk of recurrent blockage or of narrowing after an angioplasty procedure. Stents are small expandable metal tubes that are implanted in a vessel. They expand to fit the size, shape, and bend of the vessel wall and prop it open to help prevent future blockages. Once it is in place, the stent will remain in your artery. Over time, the artery wall will heal around the stent as it continues to support the vessel.

We are working on shape extensions for our AK / GK catheters. Until now we had mainly Cardiology shapes, we extended this with 45 extra shapes for Radiology. For this project we are close for getting CE approval.The AK and GK catheters with new shapes will be available early next year.

Improved Guiding Cathater

There will be a stronger type of braiding wire used in the guiding catheters to increase the kink resistance and the shape retention.

Next Generation Guiding Catheter

This catheter will be competitive with the current best in class products and will be in launched in spring 2012.

The Sinus Dilatation Catheter.

The Sinus Dilatation Catheter is for patients suffering from sinusitis. The technology uses a small, flexible, Sinus Balloon Catheter to open up blocked sinus passageways, restoring normal sinus drainage and function. When the sinus balloon is inflated, it gently restructures and widens the walls of the passageway while maintaining the integrity of the sinus lining. This product will be launched in 2011.

Safe and Effective

While use of any surgical instrument involves some risk, clinical studies have indicated the system to be safe and effective in relieving symptoms of sinusitis.

Minimally Invasive

The technology uses small, soft, flexible devices that enter entirely through the nostrils. These devices gently open blocked sinus openings, and in many cases, without tissue or bone removal.

Reduced Bleeding

Because in many instances no tissue or bone is removed when using this technology, there may be reduced bleeding associated with the procedure. As a result, the need for uncomfortable nasal packing may also be eliminated.

Improved Recovery Time

While recovery time varies with each patient, many people can return to normal activities within 24 hours.