The industry has been beleaguered by product recalls and questions about the efficacy of some devices during the last year. Getting Medicare approval is still essential for getting insurance companies to pay for devices (and that’s the key to selling devices to hospitals and patients). Many hurdles have to be jumped to get U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval. But Minnesota’s medical device industry marches on.
The following is a selection of new medical devices made by Minnesota companies or available to consumers at Minnesota hospitals and clinics that doctors are already using. Some are new to the market; others have been significantly updated during the last two years. All are evidence of the Minnesota industry’s health.
A Better Staple
Plymouth-based Incisive Surgical's Insorb surgical stapler could eventually replace the standard metal staples used to close wounds after surgery.
Pinpointing Cancer Treatment
The German company BrainLab created a Novalis shaped-beam robotic surgery system that was installed in Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital last May.
Finding Breast Cancer Sooner
The new Breast-Specific Gamma Imaging technology of the Dilon Technologies 6800 Gamma Camera provides a more detailed look at breast tissue after an irregularity has been found on a woman's mammogram.
Open Heart Alternative
Endovascular grafts to treat abdominal aortic aneurysm were invited by Medtronic, the medical device manufacturer based in Fridley.
Clearly Breathing
The SmartVest Airway Clearnace System is an inflatable fabric vest that will help people who don't have a nomral absorption or drainage of fluid passing through their lungs.
Emergency Fix
Texas-based VidaCare's EZ-10 helps emergency medical responders find veins in dangerous emergency situations.
Help for the Littlest Heart
The Amplatzer Muscular Ventricular Septal Defect Occluder helps patients with congenital heart defects.
A Clearer Picture
EnSite Fusion System software help doctors get a clearer, more detailed image of a patient's heart.
Getting the Rhythm
In September, St. Jude Medical approved its first radiofrequency wireless device for patients with heart failure and arrhythmias.
Go With The Flow
AbbeyMoor Medical, Inc. introduced a device that aids men recovering from an enlarged prostate.
The Nerve!
The Empi Select transcutaneous electrical nerve simulation device aids patients suffering from chronic pain due to arthritis.
Standing Tall
The Easy-Stand Glider can be used by patients who are unable to walk due to medical conditions or injuries.
