Irish medical technology firm Medtronic has introduced its Fortrex over-the-wire (OTW) percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) balloon catheter in the US.

The Fortrex PTA balloon catheter uses a high pressure balloon to break up the blockages and open the vessels, allowing to maintain arteriovenous (AV) access in the peripheral vascular system.

Medtronic aortic and peripheral vascular division vice-president and general manager Brian Verrier said: "Medtronic’s growing PTA portfolio includes trusted, lesion specific solutions for peripheral vascular disease.

"We are excited to bring to market the Fortrex PTA balloon, which enhances our portfolio to provide clinicians with an innovative solution to improve AV access."

Fortrex will be used to maintain AV access in patients receiving hemodialysis for chronic kidney disease or end stage renal failure.

The material and design of the Fortrex will permit shape retention at rated burst pressure, providing focused pressure on the lesion for controlled and targeted and predictable treatment.

In addition, the ballon features low tip entry profile and flexible shaft to enable tight tracking to the wire and successful navigation in tortuous vessels.