Fresenius Kabi and Terumo Cardiovascular Group have introduced its CATSmart autotransfusion system in the US.
The next-generation continuous autotransfusion system is designed to reduce the need for allogeneic blood transfusions by re-infusing a patient's own lost blood during surgery.
As part of an exclusive and five-year distribution agreement with Fresenius Kabi, Terumo will supply the CATSmart system to the US customers.
The system features continuous-flow technology that enables to deliver better performance in operating rooms.
The quick-to-start technology uses a one-size-fits-all autotransfusion set, which can control all process steps through multi-tasking.
The system includes three wash programs, auto-start function and sensor, helping the device to process automatically.
Autotransfusion is a crucial aspect of patient blood management in surgeries where blood loss is large in procedures, including cardiac, orthopedic, hepatic and trauma procedures.
The systems collect, wash, and prepare blood, which is lost during surgery for reinfusion back to the patient as required.
Fresenius Kabi USA medical devices president Dean Gregory said: “We’re pleased to bring CATSmart to U.S. customers and we’re pleased to do so through a partner – Terumo Cardiovascular Group – with whom we have collaborated for more than 15 years.
“CATSmart is quick to start and helps eliminate decision-making required with bowl-based technologies – such as what disposable to use with which bowl size – and CATSmart has one wash kit so perfusionists have one less decision to make during surgery, allowing them to focus on the patient rather than the machine.”
Terumo Cardiovascular Group electromechanical systems division president Robert DeRyke said: “Terumo is excited to continue our partnership with Fresenius Kabi and to offer CATSmart’s unique technology to cardiac surgery teams all over the United States.”
Image: Fresenius Kabi’s next-generation CATSmart autotransfusion system. Photo: courtesy of Business Wire.