Aortech Announces Human Use o

RNS Number : 8069X

Aortech International PLC

13 December 2010

 



For Immediate Release

13 December 2010

AorTech Announces Commencement of Human Use of its Header and Lead Insulation Technology in a Neurostimulation Implant

AorTech International plc (AIM: AOR) the biomaterials and medical device development company, today announces the first human use of its proprietary biostable polymer Elast-Eon™ as the header component and lead insulation for a novel neurostimulation pain management device.

AorTech estimates the combined header market to be some 3.5 million devices annually of which 85% are for cardiac pacing and the balance for neurostimulation use resulting in estimated combined header component manufacturing costs and sales in excess of $75 million.

Frank Maguire, AorTech Chief Executive Officer said, "AorTech became interested in the cardiac rhythm management and neurostimulation header market on the heels of the success of its Elast-Eon materials in pacing lead applications. Our proprietary header materials and E-RIM (small part reaction injection moulding) manufacturing process improves bond strengths reducing product failures and recalls while also improving manufacturing throughput resulting in significant cost savings for our customers. E-RIM and AorTech polymers are currently being qualified for use in a number of orthopaedic, cardiac surgery, cardiac rhythm management headers and vascular devices. AorTech expects that this program will be a significant contributor to the growth of its component business in 2011 and beyond."

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For further information please contact:

AorTech International plc

Frank Maguire, Chief Executive

Tel: + 1 801 201 4336

Evolution Securities
Bobbie Hilliam / Chris Clarke

Tel: [phone]

AorTech International plc

Sarah Price, Investor Relations

Tel: + 1 801 550 4349

e-mail [e-mail]

About Aortech

AorTech develops and manufactures biostable, implantable polymers, including Elast-Eon™ and ECSil™, the world's leading long-term implantable co-polymers.  With more than 3 million implants and over four years of successful clinical use, AorTech polymers are currently used in cardiology, orthopaedic, urological and gastroenterological applications, including pacing leads, cardiac cannulae and stents.  Devices manufactured from AorTech polymers have numerous US FDA PMA approvals, 510k's, CE Marks, Australian TGA and Japanese Ministry of Health approvals.

Elast-Eon™ and ECSil's™ biostability is comparable to silicone while exhibiting excellent mechanical, blood contacting and flex-fatigue properties. Our polymers can be processed using solution casting, ERIM and conventional thermoplastic extrusion and molding techniques. AorTech provides a range of materials in a variety of application-specific formulations for use in medical devices and components.

 

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