AtriCure (NSDQ:ATRC) today launched its CryoIce CryoSphere probe in the U.S.
The Mason, Ohio-based company’s CryoSphere probe is designed to block pain by temporarily ablating peripheral nerves. The device features a bendable distal shaft and an ergonomic handle that enables cardiac, thoracic and general surgeons to easily target peripheral nerves.
ArtiCure’s CryoSphere technology uses a freezing method to stop nerves from sending pain signals for several months, giving the patient’s body time to heal.
“The addition of the CryoSphere probe to our pain management portfolio is a major breakthrough in cardiac and thoracic surgery,” president & CEO Mike Carrel said in prepared remarks. “CryoSphere is the first of its kind, designed specifically to freeze nerves in the chest wall. With CryoSphere, surgeons can use cryoNB therapy to reduce their patients’ post-operative pain.”
“Since incorporating the technique of a cryoNB in my thoracic surgical practice several years ago, I have seen a remarkable improvement in overall management of post-operative pain, post-operative recovery times, and patient satisfaction,” Dr. Curtis Quinn, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Elliott Health System, added. “The CryoSphere probe is an impressive new tool dedicated to managing pain in patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery.”
Earlier this month, AtriCure launched a new FDA investigational device exemption trial of its CryoIce system exploring its use in treating persistent atrial fibrillation during concomitant open-chested cardiac surgery.
