Abbott Announces European Launch of Next-Generation Device Designed to Treat Patients at Risk of Stroke
Filter-Based Embolic Protection System Provides Advanced Treatment for Patients Undergoing a Carotid Stenting Procedure
ABBOTT PARK, Ill., Sept. 13 -- Abbott (NYSE:ABT) announced today CE Mark approval and European launch of the company's next- generation embolic protection device, the Emboshield(R) PRO Embolic Protection System. Embolic protection devices are designed to capture and remove particles of atherosclerotic plaque that can become dislodged during a carotid artery stenting procedure, potentially leading to stroke and other complications.
The Emboshield PRO Embolic Protection System is designed to be more radiopaque than its predecessor, the Emboshield Embolic Protection System, providing better visibility during X-ray angiography. The device's shorter length and enhanced profile are intended to allow it to cross tighter blockages and be delivered more easily in patients with challenging carotid anatomies. The Emboshield PRO also features Barewire(TM), a proprietary technology that allows the filter to remain stable during the normal guidewire movements that occur during device exchanges in carotid procedures.
"The Emboshield PRO is further evidence of Abbott's leadership in developing improved treatments to help reduce the risk of stroke -- the third leading cause of death and the most common cause of adult disability in Europe," said Chip Hance, President, Vascular Solutions, Abbott Vascular. "As a next-generation version of the Emboshield Embolic Protection System that Abbott currently markets throughout Europe and the United States, this launch provides an example of the continuous innovation in vascular care that Abbott is committed to providing physicians and patients."
Dr. Alberto Cremonesi, director of the Interventional Cardio-Angiology Unit at the Villa Maria Cecilia Hospital in Cotignola, Italy, said, "I believe the Emboshield PRO represents a significant development in embolic protection for patients in Europe. Its ability to be applied to many different vessel diameters and its short filter length make this device an important new option for tortuous vessels."
Abbott markets a full range of carotid stenting devices in the United States and Europe, including the Xact(R) Carotid Stent as well as the ACCULINK(TM) Carotid Stent System and ACCUNET(TM) Embolic Protection System. This portfolio of devices provides physicians with multiple carotid stenting options, including both open and closed cell stents, as well as bare-wire and fixed-wire embolic protection systems. Abbott has also sponsored multiple clinical trials to further the understanding and benefits of carotid stenting.
The safety information for the Xact Carotid Stent may be found at abbottvascular.com/xe . Instructions for use for the ACCULINK Carotid Stent System and ACCUNET Embolic Protection System may be found at www.abbottvascular.com/ifu/acculink_rx and www.abbottvascular.com/ifu/accunet_rx , respectively. The Emboshield PRO is not available for sale in the United States.
About Carotid Artery Disease and Carotid Stenting
Approximately one-fourth of all strokes are caused by carotid artery disease, a condition wherein one or both carotid arteries in the neck become blocked by plaque, which can break off and cause stroke. Traditional surgical treatment for carotid artery disease often involves general anesthesia and requires an incision in a patient's neck to remove plaque from inside the artery wall. Carotid artery stenting is a minimally invasive treatment option for patients who require intervention to prevent a stroke and are at high risk for complications from traditional surgery. The procedure is performed by delivering a stent on a catheter through the femoral artery in the groin. The catheter is maneuvered through the patient's vasculature to the carotid artery. The stent, which is designed to prevent arterial plaque and debris from breaking off and blocking blood flow to the brain, is then expanded at the site of the blockage.
About Abbott Vascular
Abbott Vascular, a division of Abbott, is one of the world's leading vascular care businesses. Abbott Vascular is uniquely focused on advancing the treatment of vascular disease and improving patient care by combining the latest medical device innovations with world-class pharmaceuticals, investing in research and development and advancing medicine through training and education. Headquartered in Northern California, Abbott Vascular offers a comprehensive portfolio of vessel closure, endovascular and coronary products, which are recognized internationally for their safety, effectiveness and ease of use in treating patients with vascular disease. For more information, visit www.abbott.com/ .
About Abbott
Abbott is a global, broad-based health care company devoted to the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of pharmaceuticals and medical products, including nutritionals, devices and diagnostics. The company employs 65,000 people and markets its products in more than 130 countries.
Abbott's news releases and other information are available on the company's Web site at www.abbott.com/ .
