Opportunities
Endarterectomy Stripper
The Technology
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the UK, Europe and North America. When atherosclerotic plaques block vessels such as the carotid or superficial femoral artery, an endarterectomy procedure may be performed.
Using existing devices for performing such procedures, several incisions may be required to remove occluding material from more distal sections of the vessel where the lumen diameter may be narrower. A senior vascular surgeon from the North West of England has designed an innovative surgical instrument to overcome the problems associated with currently available devices.
The Advantages
- Innovative design allows smooth movement of the device through tortuous vessels
- The device enables the surgeon to endarterectomise a second blockage of the lumen further down the vessel through the initial incision
- Excision and removal of the atheromatous core may be performed with the device in one procedure
- The device allows for direct vision through the vessel
- The device may be disposable or re-usable to suit all markets
- Patent application filed
The Potential Market
In 2003 it was estimated that more than 1 million people in the UK and 5 million in North America had clinically significant atherosclerosis. Treatment options for vessel occlusion caused by atherosclerotic plaques include endarterectomy. 5,278 endarterectomy procedures were carried out by the NHS in the UK in 2004-2005 and due to the decreased risk of MRSA infection compared to bypass graft surgery, endarterectomy is increasing in popularity amongst vascular surgeons. The market for this device is therefore increasing.
The Opportunities
We are looking for a commercial partner with experience in developing, manufacturing and marketing of medical devices, particularly in the vascular surgery field. A licence agreement or assignment are both possible opportunities.
The Contact
For more information about this or other technologies available for commercialisation through TrusTECH, contact:
Dr Philippa Flemming
TrusTECH
The Innovation Unit
1st Floor, Postgraduate Centre
Manchester Royal Infirmary
Manchester
M13 9WL
T: 01772 892787