PLAINSBORO, N.J., Feb. 27, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation (Nasdaq:IART) announced today the introduction of the next generation of MAYFIELD(R) skull pins. Manufactured from high grade titanium, the new MAYFIELD(R) skull pins are specifically designed for use with the MAYFIELD(R) cranial stabilization system. The MAYFIELD(R) system is designed to maintain the stability of a patient's head during brain surgery. The MAYFIELD(R) skull pins have received FDA clearance in the United States, as well as CE Mark Certification in the European Union.
Over the past ten years, there has been a growing trend toward performing diagnostic imaging of the brain in the operating room before, during, and after the surgical procedure. New advanced intra-operative imaging technologies, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), enable neurosurgeons to have up-to-date information that confirms, for example, the complete removal of a tumor before the patient leaves the operating room.
During MRI scanning, the presence of certain metals can cause image artifacts that may hinder the neurosurgeon's ability to interpret the images. The new MAYFIELD(R) skull pins allow neurosurgeons to perform MRI scans during brain surgery without compromising image quality. The new skull pins may be used with any MAYFIELD(R) cranial fixation system that is compatible with these imaging modalities, and the skull pins are being offered for both adult and pediatric patients.
"The use of advanced diagnostic imaging equipment, in a neurosurgical operating room, requires the redesign of certain specialized accessories to make them compatible with the image capture process. The new MAYFIELD(R) titanium skull pins now provide a distortion free operating environment for MR imaging. Clear, unobstructed intra-operative MR imaging enables the neurosurgeon to operate with greater precision and added confidence," said Christopher von Jako, Integra's Senior Director of Marketing and Product Development for OR devices. "Better patient outcome is our goal, and these products help achieve it."
The MAYFIELD(R) system is used worldwide in over 200,000 brain procedures annually. These procedures include head trauma injuries, pediatric disorders such as hydrocephalus, biopsies, cancer removal, cerebrovascular disorders such as aneurysms, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease or epilepsy.
The Integra NeuroSciences direct sales organization will sell the MAYFIELD(R) skull pins. Integra NeuroSciences is a leading provider of implants, devices, instruments, and systems used in neurosurgery, neuromonitoring, neuro-trauma, and related critical care. Integra NeuroSciences' direct selling effort in the United States and Europe involves more than 200 direct sales professionals. In all other markets, Integra NeuroSciences products are sold through a network of distributors.
Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation, a world leader in regenerative medicine, is dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients through the development, manufacturing, and marketing of cost-effective surgical implants and medical instruments. The company's products are used to treat millions of patients every year, primarily in neurosurgery, extremity reconstruction, orthopedics, and general surgery. Integra's headquarters are in Plainsboro, New Jersey, and it has research and manufacturing facilities throughout the world. www.Integra-LS.com.
This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the future use of the MAYFIELD(R) titanium skull pins and the MAYFIELD(R) cranial stabilization system. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from predicted or expected results. Among other things, the willingness of physicians to use these products may affect the prospects for their use in clinical procedures. In addition, the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors identified under the heading "Risk Factors" included in section IA of Integra's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 and information contained in subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission could affect actual results. MAYFIELD is a registered trademark of SM USA, Inc. and is used by Integra LifeSciences Corporation under license.
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