Pulmonx said yesterday that it named Glen French, the co-founder and CEO of Asthmatx who led it to an acquisition by BSX, to be its new president and chief executive.
Pulmonx makes the Zephyr endobronchial valve treatment, a series of 1-way valves implanted in the diseased portions of the lungs of patients with severe emphysema. The minimally invasive treatment is designed to facilitate the release of "trapped air" from the hyperinflation of the diseased portions of the lung, according to a press release.
Results from a double-blinded, randomized, controlled study released in September showed that patients treated with Zephyr "demonstrated statistically and clinically significant improvements in lung function, gas trapping and gas exchange, as well as exercise capacity measured on a cycle ergometer," according to the release.
"There is a large need for effective, less invasive treatments for severe emphysema, and Pulmonx offers compelling technologies that fill this gap," French said in prepared remarks. "Through our good work we will help reduce the suffering and restore the quality of life of emphysema patients worldwide with both existing and new therapies.”
French was the co-founder, president & CEO of Asthmatx, which developed the Alair bronchial thermoplasty treatment for asthma. Boston Scientific bought Asthmatx in a 2010 deal worth $443.5 million, including milestones. French stayed on as president of pulmonary endoscopy for Boston’s endoscopy division.
More recently, he was CEO of sleep disorder treatment maker ApniCure, according to a press release. Earlier in his career he co-founded and led Bronchus Technologies and NDO Surgical, according to the release.
"Glen has spent more than 15 years leading companies focused on the development of interventional pulmonology products. Glen’s deep market knowledge and experience will be invaluable as we continue to build momentum for Pulmonx’s products in the market," Pulmonx founder & chairman Dr. Rodney Perkins said in a statement.
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