Edwards Lifesciences acquires Embrella Cardiovascular

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Edwards Lifesciences announced that it has completed the acquisition of Embrella Cardiovascular, the developer of the Embrella Embolic Deflector System, which can be used during transcatheter heart valve procedures.

The purchase price was approximately US$43 million cash, and the transaction closed on 11 March 2011. Additionally, the company is maintaining its earnings guidance for the year.

 

“This acquisition is consistent with our dedication to the ongoing exploration and development of novel technologies that have the potential to improve outcomes for patients, and supports our strategy to extend Edwards’ global leadership in transcatheter heart valves,” said Larry L Wood, Edwards’ corporate vice president, transcatheter valve replacement.

 

The single-use, disposable Embrella Embolic Deflector System is designed to reduce the amount of embolic material that may enter the carotid arteries during endovascular procedures. The system is placed in the aorta via a standard 6 French (F) sheath through a right brachial or right radial artery access site. Its porous membrane allows blood flow to the brain while simultaneously deflecting embolic material.

 

The Embrella Embolic Deflector System has been assessed in a limited clinical study in Europe and received CE mark in May 2010.