PLAINSBORO, N.J., April 25, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation (Nasdaq:IART) announced today the release of the LimiTorr(TM) Volume Limiting CSF Drainage System, the latest addition to Integra's cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) drainage product line and the first volume-limiting CSF management system on the market. The LimiTorr(TM) system was designed with the help of Michael McDermott, MD, Professor and Vice-Chairman at the University of California, San Francisco, Department of Neurosurgery. Integra will be exhibiting the LimiTorr(TM) system at the upcoming 2008 American Association of Neurological Surgeons Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois, April 26 - May 1.
The LimiTorr(TM) Volume Limiting CSF Drainage System can be used for both lumbar and ventricular drainage. It includes a volume-limiting valve mechanism, which halts drainage when the pre-determined volume of 20 mL or 30 mL is met. This safety mechanism helps prevent CSF overdrainage, which can lead to subdural hematomas, brainstem herniation or death.
CSF drainage is an important component of managing the intracranial pressure of a neuro-compromised patient or a patient undergoing abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery. "This product increases patient safety, and reduces the stress of those caring for patients undergoing lumbar subarachnoid or cranial CSF drainage; it's also safer than other devices I have used," said Dr. McDermott.
Dr. McDermott had clinicians in mind, as well as patient safety, when he envisioned the LimiTorr(TM) system. "For patients, this device reduces the likelihood of CSF overdrainage. For nurses, the device helps reduce the anxiety associated with having to constantly monitor the drainage volume to prevent CSF overdrainage, and allows them to devote more time to other patient care issues."
"The LimiTorr(TM) system is an innovative product that enhances patient care and further differentiates Integra's portfolio of CSF drainage systems from the competition," said Bill Weber, Vice President of Marketing for Integra NeuroSciences.
In 2007, over 300,000 procedures in the United States were performed using lumbar or ventricular drainage systems, representing an estimated $100 million market.
The LimiTorr(TM) Volume Limiting CSF Drainage System will be sold by the Integra NeuroSciences direct sales organization. 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 150 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 use of the LimiTorr(TM) Volume Limiting CSF Drainage 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 the product may affect the prospects for its use in clinical procedures. In addition, the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors identified under the Risk Factors section 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.
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