Orthovita publishes positive trial data for Vitagel Surgical Haemostat

Orthovita has published clinical data that demonstrates the benefits of its Vitagel Surgical Haemostat product in reducing blood loss during total knee arthroplasty.

Results from the 100-patient study showed that use of the haemostatic agent – a microfibrillar collagen, thrombin and autologous plasma composite – leads to lower transfusion requirements than standard haemostasis alone.

In addition, a statistically significant trend toward higher haemoglobin levels was noted in the Vitagel group, while no adverse events were attributed to the use of the product.

Antony Koblish, president and chief executive officer of Orthovita, said the agent can provide a key option for surgeons seeking to minimise bleeding in joint replacement surgery.

"As a novel biomaterials company, Orthovita is committed to substantiating the use of products like Vitagel based upon clinical evidence," he added.

Last month, the company issued a report forecasting a growth in total product sales of between two and nine percent between 2010 and 2011.