First European implants of new Boston Scientific defibrillators
6 March 2008
Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX) has announced the first
European implants of its Cognis cardiac resynchronization therapy
defibrillator (CRT-D) and Teligen implantable cardioverter defibrillator
(ICD).
Forty implants have been performed in 14 hospitals in six countries.
The defibrillators received the CE mark last month and the implants
represent the beginning of the market launch in Europe. The Company
plans to build to a full launch in Europe and other international
markets in the second quarter of this year.
The devices are built on a new technology platform and are the result
of a multi-year research and development effort to provide enhanced
clinical options.
These include extended battery longevity, self-correcting software
and improved programming technology.
"The Cognis CRT-D offers extended battery longevity and several new
features that will help me better manage my heart failure patients,"
said Poul-Erik Bloch-Thomsen, M.D., Gentofte Hospital, Hellerup,
Denmark. "For example, the SmartDelay feature recommends programmable
device settings, which enable me to tailor individualized pacing
therapies."
"The Teligen ICD has comprehensive programming options that address
the requirements of both physicians and patients," said Lieselotte van
Erven, MD, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
"The device offers me flexibility for delivering defibrillation to my
patients and helps ensure that the right therapy is delivered at the
appropriate time."
"These devices are further evidence of our commitment to research and
development, and they are the latest indications of how we have
refocused our cardiac rhythm management business on the needs of
physicians and patients," said Jim Tobin, President and Chief Executive
Officer of Boston Scientific.