Covidien launches new Trellis peripheral infusion system

Covidien has announced the launch of its new Trellis peripheral infusion system, enabling focused treatment of blood clots that lead to post-thrombotic syndrome.

Available in the US, Europe and Canada, the next-generation version of the system continues to be the only pharmacomechanical thrombolysis device available for this purpose, having now been optimised to enhance drug delivery and the removal of the dissolved clot.

It is comprised of an over-the-wire catheter with two occlusive balloons to close off the treatment area and block drug release to other areas of the body, plus an infusion zone to deliver the lytic drug and an oscillation drive unit to disperse the drug and dissolve the clot.

New features for the device include a larger aspiration window than the previous version, allowing for better removal of the drug and the dissolved clot.

Dr Mark Turco, chief medical officer for vascular therapies at Covidien, said: "Our clinical data has demonstrated that the Trellis system's targeted lytic delivery may reduce the risk of bleeding complications normally associated with systemic thrombolytic infusion."

Last month, it was announced that Covidien will be acquired by fellow medical technology firm Medtronic in a deal worth $42.9 billion (25.03 billion pounds).