Clinical Trial Update

Aortech International PLC
29 May 2002



                        AorTech International plc


                          Clinical Trial Update

AorTech International plc announces a delay in the commencement of the clinical
trials for its new Tri-leaflet Heart Valve.  AorTech commenced the regulatory
and pre-clinical phase testing of its New Valve in October, 2001 and preliminary
results from an element of this testing indicate performance issues that require
further investigation.  The extent of these issues can only be determined when
all the relevant tests are completed during the course of the next four months
after which further announcements will be made.


Dr. Peter Duijst, AorTech's Medical Director said: -



'The regulatory testing process is continuing and we will be able to assess the
impact on the commencement of our clinical trials when all relevant data has
been collected and assessed'.



29 May 2002




ENQUIRIES:

AorTech International plc                              Tel: [phone]
Eddie McDaid, Chief Executive

College Hill                                            Tel: [phone]
Michael Padley
Clare Warren









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