Ethicon endosurgery sedation system receives approval in Canada and EU
10 May 2010
Ethicon Endo-Surgery's Sedasys System, a computer-assisted personalized sedation (CAPS) system, has been granted EU and Canadian approval for routine colonoscopy, and also for screening of the upper gastrointestinal tract (EGD procedures) in the EU.
The System integrates drug delivery and patient monitoring to enable propofol sedation personalized to each patient's needs.
"We are excited by these regulatory approvals and the opportunities they provide to bring the Sedasys System to the Canadian and European markets," said Karen Licitra, Company Group Chair and Worldwide Franchise Chair, Ethicon Endo-Surgery.
"We believe the Sedasys System has the potential to improve the sedation experience for patients and clinicians during routine colonoscopy procedures, and we look forward to the launch of the System in these markets, as early as the end of this year."
About colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is one of the deadliest and most expensive diseases to treat. Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Canada(i) and the third-leading cause of cancer death in the European Union.(ii) It is also the third-leading cause of cancer death in the United States, afflicting nearly 150,000 new patients each year, and claiming the lives of nearly 50,000 more.(iii)
Regular screening tests — such as colonoscopy — are the most effective way to detect abnormal and potentially precancerous growths in the colon or rectum. While there has been an increased demand for colorectal screening, the screening rate remains well below the American Cancer Society's 2015 goal of 75% of the eligible population.
Contributing factors to patient noncompliance with colonoscopy screening include fear of pain or discomfort and a previous unpleasant experience with an uncomfortable colonoscopy.
References
i) Canadian Cancer Society; http://www.coloncancercanada.ca/fastfacts_coloncancer.php
ii) P.Boyle, J.Ferlay, "Cancer incidence and mortality in Europe, 2004," Annals of Oncology (2005), 16(5); 481-488
iii) Colorectal Cancer Facts & Figures, American Cancer Society, 2008.