Bi-Directional Catheter helps treat irregular heart rhythms.

Press Release Summary:



EZ Steer(TM) NAV Catheter allows range of motion to facilitate procedures designed to eliminate abnormal heart rhythms. Integral micro-tensioning system lets users progressively dial in precise force desired for deflection of catheter. It can hold deflection in place, eliminating need for repeated locking and unlocking of curve position. With ergonomic handle, navigational ablation catheter also optimizes feeling of direct connection with catheter tip and target ablation area.



Original Press Release:



New Bi-Directional Cardiac Catheter Now Available for Use with Unique Navigational System to Treat Irregular Heart Rhythms



EZ Steer(TM) NAV Catheter from Biosense Webster Features Micro-tensioning System for Enhanced Control and Procedural Versatility

DIAMOND BAR, Calif., May 9 -- Patients across the United States with certain types of arrhythmias can now benefit from treatment with a new navigational ablation catheter, designed to give physicians improved range of motion, ease of use and technical finesse during procedures to eliminate abnormal heart rhythms. The EZ Steer(TM) NAV Bi-Directional Catheter is now available for use with the Carto(R) XP System, a unique navigational system that provides real-time feedback in guiding the catheter to the target.

The defining feature of this new bi-directional navigational catheter is its patented micro-tensioning system. With the micro-tensioning system physicians can, through a series of very small, continuous micro-movements, progressively dial in the precise force desired for deflection of the catheter. Because the micro-tensioning system can hold the deflection in place, there is no need for repeated locking and unlocking of the curve position. Physicians experience smooth deflection and a high degree of predictability.

The EZ Steer(TM) Catheters incorporate an ergonomically-inspired handle, a special design that aids comfort and provides the physician with a feeling of "direct connection" with the catheter tip and target ablation area. The EZ Steer Bi-Directional Catheter also acts as two curves in one catheter that provides physicians with continuity and procedural versatility.

"As an electrophysiologist, I appreciate having the flexibility of using the EZ Steer Catheter with or without the navigational system," said Emile Daoud, M.D., Section Director of Electrophysiology, Ohio State University, in Columbus, Ohio. "EZ Steer NAV is an advancement for the bi-directional ablation catheters offered by Biosense Webster and simplifies the task of reaching more anatomy and helps ensure procedural success for patients." Dr. Daoud conducted the first worldwide case with the EZ Steer(TM) NAV Catheter.

Common forms of arrhythmia, such as atrial flutter, occur when abnormal electrical circuits develop inside of the heart's upper chambers, causing the heart to beat very quickly (about 150 beats per minute) and out of sync with lower chambers, or ventricles. By identifying and ablating (deactivating) the sources of the abnormal conduction, physicians can help restore normal function and protect patients from complications such as organ failure, heart failure and stroke.

"At Biosense Webster, we take pride in transforming insightful ideas from the electrophysiology lab into enhanced technologies that improve procedures and make a difference for patients," said Roy Tanaka, President, Biosense Webster, Inc. "Each regulatory approval and product we create to respond to a physician or patient need inspires us to move to the next level in advanced medical care. The EZ Steer(TM) NAV Catheter is a prime example of that inspiration at work."

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the EZ Steer(TM) Catheter for marketing in September 2006. It is also available in Europe and Canada.

About Biosense Webster, Inc.

Biosense Webster, Inc., a Johnson & Johnson company, pioneered EP diagnostic catheters more than 30 years ago and continues to lead the industry as an innovative provider of advanced diagnostic, therapeutic and mapping tools. As the leader in navigation systems, Biosense Webster, Inc.'s, technology includes the largest installed base of navigation systems worldwide in leading hospitals and teaching institutions. With proprietary products such as the Carto(R) XP System, the CartoMerge(TM) Image Integration Software Module, the ThermoCool(R) Irrigated Tip Catheter and the Lasso(R) Circular Variable Mapping Catheter, the company is changing the way electrophysiologists diagnose and treat arrhythmias.

CONTACT: Christopher Allman, office, +1-786-313-2303, mobile, +1-305-586-6024, callman1@crdus.jnj.com, or Kim Thompson, office, +1-909-839-8553, mobile, +1-909-967-0039, kthomps5@bwius.jnj.com, both +for Biosense Webster, Inc.

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