J & J ’ s Ethicon wins FDA nod for Echelon circular stapler

Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) subsidiary Ethicon said today it won FDA 510(k) clearance for its Echelon circular powered stapler. The company touted new features of the recently cleared stapler, saying it was designed to reduce anastomotic complications during colorectal, gastric and thoracic cancer surgeries. “Ethicon is committed to reducing complications, which have a significant impact on healthcare costs and patient outcomes. The Echelon Circular Powered Stapler addresses these challenges by combining powered firing with 2 staple forming innovations that reduce leaks without compromising perfusion,” global endomechanical platform lead Tom O’Brien said in a press release. Ethicon claims that the improvements in the stapler resulted in a 61% decrease in leaks at the staple line when compared to Medtronic‘s (NYSE:MDT) DST Series EEA Stapler. The device features gripping surface technology which the company claims provides a 33% reduction in compressive force during stapling. Last March, Ethicon it closed its acquisition of Torax Medical, and its Linx acid reflux treatment portfolio, for an undisclosed amount. The Linx system from Shoreview, Minn.-based Torax is an implant composed of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores that augments the esophageal sphincter’s barrier function to prevent reflux in patients with gastro-esophageal reflux disease. Torax is also developing a similar device, Fenix, designed to treat fecal incontinence. ...
Source: Mass Device - Category: Medical Equipment Authors: Tags: 510(k) Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Regulatory/Compliance Surgical Ethicon Johnson & Johnson Source Type: news