Medtronic (NYSE:MDT) said today it launched its OptiSphere embolization spheres designed for embolization of hypervascular tumors.
The Fridley, Minn.-based company said that the embolization spheres, which are manufactured by the Vascular Solutions subsidiary of Teleflex (NYSE:TFX), are designed as a resorbable embolic alternative treatment option to permanent embolics.
“Teleflex is very pleased to have Medtronic as a strategic distribution partner for our novel platform of embolic spheres. The development of unique resorbable implants, particularly in the field of embolization, has become one of our core technical competencies at Vascular Solutions and Teleflex. By combining this technical expertise with Medtronic’s focus in interventional oncology, Teleflex is excited to collaborate on providing an alternative solution to healthcare professionals who are seeking a resorbable embolization product,” Teleflex scientific affairs director Jake Isenburg said in a prepared statement.
Studies of the OptiSphere short-term spheres have shown similar long-term results to permanent embolics, Medtronic said, and are designed to degrade starting at four weeks post-procedure with significant degradation at nine weeks.
Medtronic said the OptiSpheres are designed for predictable distribution during delivery, and come with two volume options and five size ranges.
“Medtronic continues to seek opportunities to expand the therapies we offer to patients and the physicians who treat them. With increased and better quality of care, the cancer patient population is living longer with the disease and it is important that we continue to introduce therapies that help positively impact and improve their quality of life. We consider this launch to be a win for both sides of the healthcare pathway, as OptiSphere addresses patient concerns of having permanent implanted spheres left behind while enabling physicians to offer an innovative treatment option in their facilities,” Medtronic pain therapies interventional biz GM Jeff Cambra said in a press release.
Earlier this month, Medtronic said it won CE Mark approval in the European Union for its Visualase brain surgery device.
