Philips expands HeartNavigator availability to US

Philips has expanded the availability of its HeartNavigator interventional tool to the US following its successful introduction in Europe earlier this year.

The device, which is used for procedural planning and image guidance for minimally invasive heart valve replacement techniques, has been granted US Food and Drug Administration clearance in recent weeks.

Following this, Medical City Dallas Hospital became the first US healthcare facility to commercially install the tool, which has been shown to reduce burden on patients and minimise the need for open heart surgery.

The device has received positive testimonies from surgeons in Europe, where minimally invasive valve replacement procedures are becoming increasingly commonplace on an annual basis.

Bert van Meurs, senior vice-president and general manager for interventional x-ray systems at Philips Healthcare, said: "Over the years, we have introduced innovative solutions that have helped to simplify minimally invasive procedures and improve patient care."

Earlier this month, the company revealed it will be overhauling its international marketing initiatives by selecting Ogilvy and Mather to become its lead creative agency from next year onwards.