Crux Biomedical has enrolled the first patient in its Retrieve 2 pivotal US IDE trial, which evaluates the safety and efficacy of Crux' new Vena Cava Filter (VCF).
The Crux VCF is a retrievable, implantable filter, which is designed to trap blood clots that can lead to a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism (PE). Crux Biomedical claimed that it is the first VCF to be developed that is bidirectional, permitting insertion or retrieval from either the femoral or jugular veins.
Vena cava filters were designed as a permanent implants where improvements have provided physicians with the option to retrieve the filter once a patient is no longer at risk of a PE.
Crux Biomedical said that the cleared vena cava filters are associated with a variety of complications, which present challenges to the physician when attempting to retrieve the device. The Crux VCF design is expected to prevent filter tilt and associated challenges in retrieval.
Mel Schatz, CEO of Crux Biomedical, said: “Physicians are very enthusiastic with our bidirectional design and the additional choices that it will provide in delivery and retrieval of the implant.”
Headquartered in Menlo Park, California, Crux Biomedical specializes in minimally invasive medical implants. It is funded by Alloy Ventures and Emergent Medical Partners.