PLAINSBORO, N.J. and SHANGHAI, China, Dec. 5, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation (Nasdaq:IART) today announced the opening of its first Asia business office in Shanghai, China, part of an ongoing expansion to serve one of the world's fastest developing medical device markets. Stuart Essig, Integra's Chief Executive Officer, officiated at the grand opening ceremony of the office, which is located at the People's Square area of Huangpu District. Dignitaries from the Shanghai Food and Drug Administration (SFDA), relevant governmental departments, Integra employees, and members of the local media attended the event.
"I am delighted that Integra has opened an office in China," said Mr. Essig. "China's rapidly growing economy has created a significant medical device market that presents Integra with major growth opportunities. This is an important milestone for our company and a clear indication of the importance we place in the area."
Alan Eng will manage the new office as Integra's Greater China General Manager. Mr. Eng has over 20 years of China multinational healthcare company experience. "I am extremely honored to lead Integra's first office in Asia," said Mr. Eng. "With an initial staff of five, we aim to establish a stronger distribution network to greatly enhance our services to our customers in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan."
One of Integra's strengths is its diverse product categories. It is a leader in neurosurgery, offering a broad portfolio of implants, devices, instruments and systems used in neurosurgery, neuromonitoring, neurotrauma, and related critical care. Its orthopedic products include devices and implants for foot and ankle, hand and wrist, shoulder and elbow, tendon and peripheral nerve protection and repair, wound repair, and spine. In the United States, Integra is a leading provider of surgical instruments to hospitals, surgery centers and alternate care sites, including physician and dental offices. It distinguishes itself by emphasizing the importance of the field of regenerative medicine — which it defines as surgical implants derived from its proprietary collagen matrix technology.
"Having a direct presence in China enhances our local capability, supports our commitment to this important region, and allows us to offer innovative healthcare solutions for a vast patient population," said JoAnne Harla, Integra's Vice President for Latin America, Asia Pacific and Canada. "Initially, we will focus on our neurosurgical business, but our future plans include product introductions in spine and orthobiologics, and an expansion of our existing orthopedics business."
About Integra
Integra LifeSciences, a world leader in medical devices, is dedicated to limiting uncertainty for surgeons, so they can concentrate on providing the best patient care. Integra offers innovative solutions in orthopedics, neurosurgery, spine, reconstructive, and general surgery. For more information, please visit www.integralife.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 products and services provided by Integra. 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 surgical professionals to use Integra products may affect the prospects for their use in surgical procedures. In addition, the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors, identified under the heading "Risk Factors" included in Item IA of Integra's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010 and information contained in subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission could affect actual results.