Thoratec, a provider of device-based mechanical circulatory support (MCS) therapies for advanced-stage heart failure, has acquired catheter pump technology from Getinge, to use in the development of a minimally invasive, acute cardiac axial flow pump.
Thoratec is expected to pay a cash purchase price of $8.5m to Getinge for the technology.
Known as PHP (Percutaneous Heart Pump), the device is an axial flow pump. It is inserted through an 11 French introducer sheath that is expandable to 21 French, with an elastomeric, collapsible impeller and cannula that is driven by an external motor via a flexible drive shaft. It can be delivered percutaneously in the cardiac catheterization lab and operating room.
In a laboratory setting, the device has generated greater than 4.5 liters per minute of flow against normal physiological pressures, said the company.
Gary Burbach, president and chief executive officer of Thoratec, said: “This technology represents a compelling opportunity for Thoratec as we broaden our leadership position in MCS therapies. There is an unmet need for a device that can provide fast and minimally invasive acute cardiac support for hemodynamically unstable acute myocardial infarction, high risk percutaneous coronary intervention and post-cardiotomy patients.
“Given its potential ability to provide greater flow at a smaller size than other existing devices, we believe this technology offers the potential to be the basis for a breakthrough offering in this significant market.”