Second Heart Assist announced that it appointed Bill Carpou to its board of directors as it prepares to scale its cardio-renal platform.
Carpou currently serves as CEO of Octane, a leading growth platform for medical technology companies. He previously held a senior operating role with Blackstone, the world’s largest alternative investment firm.
“Bill’s addition to the board reinforces the message that Second Heart is structuring itself to lead,” said Jeff Donofrio, CEO. “He understands how to prepare companies for public markets, how to hold teams accountable, and how to create value that lasts.”
Salt Lake City-based Second Heart Assist says the new board appointment comes as it builds momentum around its Whisper platform. Whisper is a next-generation percutaneous mechanical circulatory support (pMCS) system. It is intended for use in patients hospitalized with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) and who develop diuretic resistance with persistent congestion (cardio-renal syndrome (CRS), and/or cardiogenic shock (CS). It also works for those in need of prophylactic hemodynamic support during high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (HRPCI).
The catheter-based, minimally invasive device utilizes a nitinol stent cage fitted with a motorized impeller. It aids in providing circulatory support throughout a patient’s body. Earlier this year, the company reported strong clinical outcomes for Whisper.
Second Heart Assist says the addition of Carpou signals scientific readiness and corporate strength as it advances the Whisper platform.
“Second Heart Assist is at an inflection point,” said Carpou. “They have a technology that is already ahead of where the field is moving. What excites me is the vision to back that innovation with the kind of leadership and corporate structure that can win in the market.
“I look forward to contributing to that vision while also providing accountability and oversight support as the company accelerates it momentum velocity.”
