Apr 26 2012
The Spectranetics Corporation (NASDAQ: SPNC) today announced FDA
approval of the new advanced GlideLight Laser Sheath for removal of
cardiac leads. As part of the company's vision to safely manage every
lead, GlideLight delivers more precise control to reduce the force for
safe lead extraction.
Spectranetics' current laser sheath, the SLS® II, requires
significantly less force to advance than mechanical telescoping sheaths.
GlideLight is a major leap forward, requiring 55% less force to advance
than SLS II.
"Mechanical force is a leading cause of complications during lead
extraction," said Dr. Bruce Wilkoff, Director of Cardiac Pacing and
Tachyarrhythmia Devices at Cleveland Clinic, "and reduced force improves
the control for safely removing leads. It is particularly important to
have control when breaking up tough binding sites." Dr. Wilkoff is a
non-paid member of Spectranetics' Medical Advisory Board.
"GlideLight has taken us to the next level in lead extraction," said Dr.
Charles Kennergren, professor at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in
Gothenburg, Sweden, and first physician worldwide to use GlideLight
clinically. "I am very impressed with the reduced force and increased
control and efficiency that GlideLight has provided me."
"GlideLight demonstrates our commitment to innovate and deliver
solutions for safe, predictable outcomes," said Scott Drake,
Spectranetics CEO and President. "This is one of the many meaningful
advancements we plan to deliver to achieve our vision."
A limited market release of GlideLight will be conducted to gain early
experience prior to a broader controlled launch. GlideLight will be the
company's focus at the Heart Rhythm Society meeting in Boston May 9-11,
where physicians will be able to experience the GlideLight difference
first-hand at the Spectranetics exhibit.