A new laser-assisted neurovascular surgery technique that uses platinum implants to create a vascular bypass has been granted EU approval.

Spectranetics has announced that its strategic partner Elana has received Communautes Europeennes (CE) mark registration for the new laser-assisted neurovascular surgery technique.

The Elana technique - or "Excimer Laser-Assisted Non-occlusive Anastomosis" in its full name - uses a Spectranetics excimer laser and laser catheter and is the only known technique that enables surgeons to create a vascular bypass without occluding the recipient vessel.

Crucially, Elana allows continued blood supply during the procedure. A platinum implant is attached to the outside wall of the recipient vessel during the procedure to make the connection for the bypass graft (anastomosis). The bypass graft then is stitched to the wall of the recipient vessel, using the implant as a guide.

John G Schulte, Spectranetics president and chief executive officer, commented: "The Elana technique has the potential to assist many patients at risk for stroke where few or no treatment alternatives exist.

"We are delighted with the approval received by Elana to begin marketing in Europe, and look forward to supporting their efforts to educate physicians about the potential benefits of this surgical technique."

The Elana clinical research was performed at four European sites and involved more than 300 cases.

The technique will be commercialised by the firm Elana for the treatment of patients with a giant aneurysm or a skull base tumour and insufficient collateral circulation.


Ÿ Adfero Ltd