23 August 2006
San Diego, USA. Viking Systems, Inc. (OTCBB: VKSY), a designer,
manufacturer and marketer of high-performance laparoscopic
vision systems for use in minimally invasive surgical (MIS)
procedures, has expanded its international distribution network
by adding three new strategic partners in Korea, The Netherlands
and Ukraine.
Viking Systems has expanded its European penetration by entering
into exclusive agreements with Arsis Medical in The Netherlands
and MedComplex-MC Ltd. in Ukraine. These countries, in addition
to exclusive agreements already established in Italy, Germany,
Austria, Switzerland, Sweden and Russia, strongly position
Viking Systems to capitalize on the growth of MIS throughout
Europe.
The company has also entered the Asian market by signing an
exclusive agreement with LeoMedics Co., Ltd. based in Seoul,
Korea. Hospital evaluations of Viking's technology will begin in
August with Korean FDA clearance projected prior to the end of
2006.
"Minimally invasive surgery is growing rapidly in Korea and our
exclusive agreement to market Viking System's innovative and economical
EndoSite 3Di Digital Vision System provides us with the opportunity to
better serve our hospitals and their patients," said Yong-Jin Cho, Chief
Executive Officer of LeoMedics.
"In addition to the restoration of depth perception, our surgeons are
attracted by the comfort of the head mounted displays versus the strain
of viewing a distant monitor especially during longer procedures. We
believe Viking's EndoSite 3Di Digital Vision System will become the
standard for all minimally invasive surgery in the future."
"Surgeons and hospitals around the world are rapidly adopting the
benefits of our 3-D technology to enhance their performance in complex
minimally invasive procedures," stated Stephen Heniges, Vice President,
Corporate Accounts and International Business at Viking Systems. "The
visual aspect of depth perception, which has been a critical missing
component from traditional minimally invasive surgery, translates to
better patient outcomes and reduced operating times. Our international
customers also appreciate the shortened learning curve our EndoSite 3Di
device provides for mastering new and complex procedures."
"Our 3-D technology and equipment creates a high performance,
'native' skill environment for the surgeon and surgical team, in
addition to a unique and sizable market opportunity for the Company
within the rapidly growing minimally invasive surgical space," concluded
Donald E. Tucker, President and Chief Executive Officer of Viking
Systems. "As we continue to expand both internationally and in the U.S.,
Viking remains focused on delivering innovative, cost-effective
solutions for use in digital operating rooms (ORs) of all sizes and
capabilities."