Boston Scientific (NYSE:BSX) said today that it launched the Axios stent and electrocautery delivery system it obtained through the $62.5 million buyout of Xlumena last year.
The newly cleared Axios device has indications for endoscopic management of pancreatic pseudocysts and certain types of walled-off pancreatic necrosis, Marlborough, Mass.-based Boston Scientific said. The company added that the conditions represent 2 types of pancreatic fluid collections that occur in 5%-16% of patients with acute pancreatitis and 20%-40% of patients with chronic pancreatitis.
“The Axios Stent and electrocautery enhanced delivery system provide a simpler and faster treatment option for patients. We can now provide an endoscopic solution that provides immediate relief for these patients using one device in a single setting,” Axios system inventor Dr. Kenneth Binmoeller said in prepared remarks.
The Axios is designed to be used under endoscopic ultrasound guidance to gain access to the PFC and deploy the Axios stent, which allows the operating physician to drain the PFC by creating a channel between the PFC and the gastrointestinal track, Boston Scientific said.
“In our practice, the Axios System has improved the endoscopic treatment of PFCs and walled off necrosis. The delivery system has improved our procedural efficiency by reducing procedure time and patient exposure to X-ray imaging. In addition, we believe that the large diameter stent design is helping to reduce the cost of care by decreasing hospital length of stay and the number of interventions needed to manage this complex disease,” Dr. Todd Baron of the University of North Carolina Hospital said in a press release.
The deal with Xlumena included a $12.6 million milestone triggered upon obtaining FDA clearance for the device. The sale included other sales-based milestones through 2018, according to Boston Scientific.
