The new device, which is approved for both diagnostic and interventional procedures, gives physicians an improved method for sealing arterial catheterization access sites. Because the new device provides more coverage on the artery surface than previous devices, physicians may more effectively achieve hemostasis (cessation of bleeding), even in patients using certain blood thinners. In addition, the device’s coated suture makes it easier to use, enhancing physicians’ ability to effectively seal access sites. If physicians need to access the site a second time, they can safely re-enter with the Angio-Seal VIP device within 1 centimeter of the original site.

More about device

via Medgadget

The StarClose™ Vascular Closure System (VCS) is used to close a puncture site in the femoral artery and stop bleeding following a 5 or 6 French diagnostic cardiac catheterization procedure. After a cardiac catheterization procedure it is necessary to stop the bleeding in a blood vessel in the leg (the femoral artery). The StarClose™ VCS uses a nitinol clip to stop bleeding by closing the hole in the artery.

FDA device approval page

The story about SilverHawk Plaque Excision System.

Clinical Outcomes

LPL Systems Inc. of Mountain View, Calif., which produces laser-based machine tool systems for the fabrication of medical devices, turned to fiber lasers from SPI Lasers plc of Los Gatos, Calif., to cut stents, primarily to reduce maintenance costs. Advantages of fiber lasers over flashlamp-pumped solid-state lasers include high stability, a small footprint, low maintenance and energy efficiency.

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The RX ACCULINK™ Carotid Stent System is designed to provide easy and accurate stent placement in patients who have carotid atherosclerosis and are at high risk for conventional surgery.  

RX ACCULINK Carotid Stent System Product Specifications (PDF)

Instructions for Use - US Only (PDF)

FDA approval documents

Guidant device page

This article describes a project to determine the causes of a high failure rate in one manufacturer’s percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty catheters. Recommendations for optimal production are outlined.

Full text PDF

The sensor, approved by the FDA last month, promises a more effective, cheaper and safer way to make sure the stents are working.

The device, made by CardioMEMS Inc., is implanted in the aneurysm sac.

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