Covidien receives CE Mark for Nellcor software

Covidien has been granted CE Mark accreditation for its new Nellcor Respiration Rate 1.0 software and sensor.

The new device has been cleared for release across the European Economic Area, thus paving the way for the company to begin a limited market release next month in selected European hospitals.

By monitoring changes in the pulse oximetry signal that occur as a result of breathing, the technology is able to provide respiration rate data that can help to warn of complications that may require intervention.

This offers a more complete picture of a patient's respiratory status than simply measuring blood oxygen levels, thus helping to enhance the efficacy of treatment.

Robert White, president for respiratory and monitoring solutions at Covidien, said: "This important milestone reflects Covidien's commitment to making investments in clinically relevant product innovations designed to improve patient outcomes."

Earlier this month, the manufacturer published a new study showing the benefits of another of its newer products, the Endo Stitch automated suturing device.