Merit Medical to Exhibit at HRS 2022: Excellence in EP Access and Lead Management
This week, the EP community is heading to San Francisco for the Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) annual meeting. Friday, April 29 – Sunday, May 1, physicians all over the globe will have access to in-person and online sessions. As a leader in EP and CRM, Merit is thrilled to exhibit cutting-edge technologies and host hands-on physician education, the theme this year: “Excellence in EP Access and Lead Management.”
Achieve targeted hemostasis with the SafeGuard Focus, a specialized compression device specifically designed for use in patients with pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) pockets.
To meet the challenges of cardiac resynchronization therapy, the Worley system provides the solutions needed to reduce implantation times, gain easier access to the target vessel, and improve chances for successful implantation.
The Vitale Occlusion Balloon maintains hemostasis for up to 30 minutes,* allowing time for patients to stabilize and transition to surgery. Faster inflation, faster deflation, and better kink resistance offers better outcomes for you and your patients.
PHYSICIAN EDUCATION
Hands-On Training: I-CRT Tools & Techniques
Faculty: Seth Worley, MD, FHRS, FACC
Date: Saturday, April 30
Time: 12:45PM – 1:30PM PDT
Location: Booth #2034
Merit is committed to offering physicians the technologies and education opportunities they need to improve patient care. We look forward to discussing what we can do for your practice. See you at HRS 2022!
Want up-to-date Merit booth announcements? Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Before using any of the Merit products mentioned above, refer to Instructions for Use for indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and directions for use.
*Data on file.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/2022-HRS-FeatureImage.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2022-04-25 07:45:002022-04-22 14:36:40Merit Medical to Exhibit at HRS 2022: Excellence in EP Access and Lead Management
“A Real Winning Combination”: Prelude IDeal™ and PreludeSYNC DISTAL™ Provide Complete Solution for Distal Radial Access
Distal radial access has emerged as an accessible, optimal solution for physicians seeking to provide the greatest experience for their patients. While femoral and traditional radial access have previously been standard, distal radial offers additional advantages to both patient and operator. To support distal radial artery access, Merit offers a suite of products designed to minimize risk, maximize patient comfort, and provide ease of use for care teams to incorporate.
We spoke with Ethan C. Korngold, MD, FSCAI, interventional cardiologist at Providence St. Vincent Hospital in Portland, OR, to hear his experience choosing two Merit products in particular for his distal radial artery access procedures: the Prelude IDeal Hydrophilic Sheath Introducer and the PreludeSYNC DISTAL, a radial compression device specially created for the distal radial access site.
Why Distal Radial?
Literature shows that radial access provides multiple benefits, including less bleeding complications, decreased procedure cost, and enhanced sheath performance.1
According to Dr. Korngold, patients undergoing distal radial access interventions may experience additional advantages over radial access, including increased mobility post-procedure. “It is much less invasive than traditional radial access—my patients are able to resume normal activities much more quickly,” Dr. Korngold says. “Distal radial access may also lead to less occlusion of the radial artery. I think the important thing is that it preserves the radial artery should future interventions be necessary.”
Mitigating Risk
Kinking and compressing are recognized challenges for operators when navigating catheters during radial access procedures.
“It’s very important when performing distal access to have a sheath that’s kink resistant. I really do prefer the kink resistance of the braided Prelude IDeal sheath. I also find it has impressive push forces; it’s a stronger, stiffer sheath that performs better than others I’ve used,” Dr. Korngold explains.
Dr. Korngold shares his firsthand experience with similar products. “I’ve used other non-braided sheaths, both slender and non-slender varieties. I found that even the non-slender varieties are just too prone to kinking. The kink resistance of the Prelude IDeal is excellent; it’s an essential feature for distal radial access.”
Maximizing Patient Comfort
Dr. Korngold has found that he’s received significantly fewer patient complaints of swelling, discomfort, or hematomas since opting for the PreludeSYNC DISTAL.
Constructed with soft material, the PreludeSYNC DISTAL provides comfortable wear. Its three-strap band configuration allows for an adjustable fit with optional extension if needed especially for larger hands. The PreludeSYNC DISTAL also delivers clear, unobstructed site visibility for focused compression. A built-in Slip-n-Lock™ Cap provides a specialized connection, securing syringes during inflation and deflation, supporting patient safety.
“The PreludeSYNC DISTAL band is really just perfectly designed. Everyone who does distal radial access has experimented with different ways of doing it. No solution is as efficient, convenient, or as comfortable for patients,” Dr. Korngold says.
Ease of Use
Medical devices must be effective, but equally important is ease of use. Dr. Korngold reports that incorporating the Prelude IDeal and PreludeSYNC DISTAL into his practice was seamless.
“It’s very easy to train the care team on how to use them properly,” he says, referring to his experience introducing both products to his staff. “Our nurses on the floor found it very intuitive and easy to manage. Both products fit perfectly into our existing workflows, so I’d say it’s a real winning combination.”
A Complete Solution
Merit is committed to developing tools that improve patient’s lives in partnership with the physicians who provide their care. The Prelude IDeal Hydrophilic Sheath Introducer and PreludeSYNC DISTAL are prime examples of this dedication and have become the go-to tools for distal radial access procedures around the globe.
Rathore S et al. 2010. “Impact of Length and Hydrophilic Coating of the Introducer Sheath on Radial Artery Spasm During Transradial Coronary Intervention.” JACC 3, no. 5 (May): 475 ̶ 483. PMID: 20488402.
6F Data on File.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/DistalRadial-Feature.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2022-04-08 15:00:002022-04-08 15:12:15“A Real Winning Combination”: Prelude IDeal™ and PreludeSYNC DISTAL™ Provide Complete Solution for Distal Radial Access
What’s Your Clinical Challenge? We Have a Solution.
As a leader in customer-focused healthcare, Merit Medical’s priority is to ensure that you have the tools you need to care for your patients. Ranging from product kits to education opportunities, our Complete Solutions simplify preparation and streamline procedures to support quality patient care with a trusted, innovative range of medical devices.
BIOPSY
We offer a wide range of reliable biopsy devices for precise samples every time. Our proven soft tissue biopsy brands, such as Achieve®, Temno®, Tru-Cut®, and CorVocet®, offer a complete selection with advanced features to obtain top-quality tissue samples with ease and efficiency.
Our cardiac catheterization solutions provide you with a variety of tools to help you accurately diagnose and successfully treat patients with heart problems. From sheath introducers, like our Prelude IDeal™, and guide wires to catheters, inflation devices, and more, we offer a number of superior devices for your procedures.
When treating vulnerable patients, every product you use matters. We offer a broad spectrum of tools designed for patients being treated in the critical care unit. Merit critical care technologies aim to reduce contaminant exposure, accurately monitor patient blood pressure, and decrease workplace injury, helping you provide treatment that is safe, effective, and efficient.
Kidney disease is a global issue, and access is the foundation for any successful dialysis procedure. Our comprehensive dialysis access portfolio, including our catheter-dependence reducing HeRO® Graft, brings reliable and innovative solutions to your practice.
Our home dialysis options offer several patient advantages over in-center dialysis, including better kidney disease-related quality of life. We offer virtual and hands-on physician training, a wide range of catheter sizes, accessories, kits, and patient resources.
Radial access has many well-documented benefits that include improved patient safety, a significant reduction in cost of care, and increased patient and staff satisfaction. We support radial access with a diverse portfolio of innovative products and a world-renowned hands-on physician education program, helping you offer the advantages of radial to your patients.
Distal radial artery access offers both patient and operator advantages. To help bring these benefits to your practice, we provide advanced training on the distal technique as well as innovative products to support your procedures, such as the first-to-market PreludeSYNC DISTAL™ Radial Compression Device.
Over the past two decades, we have continually expanded our drainage portfolio to include a diverse range of solutions that work together to help you achieve optimal drainage care. We offer multiple drainage catheters designed to lessen trauma and promote a more accurate placement.
Successful diagnosis and treatment of electrical cardiac activity is crucial—this is why we offer a range of physician education courses and specialized tools to assist in making accurate diagnoses and create effective treatment plans. Features include extra-stiff transseptal needles, ergonomic handles for exceptional control, and advanced introducer systems.
Our proprietary embolic products are the most studied on the market and allow for efficient and safe delivery and predictable outcomes. To complement our offerings, we provide excellent ongoing customer service to ensure you have the tools you need for your procedures.
PROSTATIC ARTERY EMBOLIZATION To help support your prostatic artery embolization (PAE) practice, we offer virtual and hands-on training, trusted products, clinical resources, patient materials, and more.
UTERINE FIBROID EMBOLIZATION Our uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) solutions offer trusted products that deliver predictable clinical results as well as long-term symptom control.
We also offer extensive patient resources at our Ask4PAE and Ask4UFE sites.
For patients with tracheobronchial strictures, stent technology can provide rapid palliation and improve quality of life. We offer fully covered, laser-cut tracheobronchial stents and advanced over-the-wire and direct visualization delivery systems. Download case studies and participate in virtual and hands-on training—all designed to help you advance patient care.
Designed to bring convenience and efficiency to your office, our kits and packs solutions can help simplify prep and procedure, support quality patient care, and reduce inventory levels. Our team analyzed hundreds of kits and created a set of standard configurations that meet the needs of the majority of cath labs, interventional radiology, and vascular surgery departments. We also offer customizable kits to fit your unique procedural needs.
Through a diverse portfolio of sophisticated steerable technologies, we deliver complete procedural solutions designed to treat pathologies of the vertebrae, reduce pain, and improve patient quality of life. Our comprehensive education programs and unique products allow physicians to address patient-specific needs and physician preference in the treatment of vertebral pathologies.
Our minimally invasive venous solutions are designed to treat symptoms, minimize post-operative pain, and provide faster recovery. Explore products, accessories, and kits, packs, and trays—each complementing the next to provide you with better patient outcomes.
Merit’s dedication to comprehensive customer care starts with providing the tools you need to treat your patients. Ready to get started? Available via email, phone, and live chat, our Customer Support team is here to help find a solution for you. Browse our virtual in-service and product support videos, all designed to help you obtain additional product knowledge and insights. We look forward to working with you.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/CompleteSolutions-FeatureImage.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2022-03-11 11:12:292022-03-11 11:12:43What’s Your Clinical Challenge? We Have a Solution.
American Heart Month
Merit Medical is a company with heart. We’re a team with a common goal of improving the lives of people worldwide. That’s why we’re proud to celebrate February as Heart Month—because we believe that heart health and heart disease prevention are topics that affect everyone.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally.1 According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 17.9 million people died from CVDs in 2019, representing 32% of all global deaths.1 Of these deaths, 85% were due to heart attack and stroke.1
Merit has a long history of supporting heart health through a number of product innovations. In 1987 we started with a single groundbreaking product—a stronger and safer coronary control syringe. More than thirty years later, our cardiac portfolio has expanded, providing interventional cardiologists and electrophysiologists with more options to treat patients.
When it comes to our Merit team, we take heart health seriously. Some of the ways we prioritize heart health every day include employee health screenings, healthy meal options in our facility cafés, convenient opportunities to engage in physical activity, and a smoking cessation program.
Merit’s Chief Wellness Officer Dr. Nicole Priest offers regular wellness talks, broadcasting to employees worldwide, including a special heart talk, and provides regular newsletters to keep our team up to date on the latest health recommendations and tips for disease prevention.
Merit is proud to recognize Heart Month. Check back throughout February to see all the ways we’re raising awareness about heart health and working together to prevent heart disease.
To help our employees take better care of their hearts, we provided self-care and stress-reducing tips as well as healthy recipes to try at home.
This month, across the nation, our Merit family wore red to honor #HeartMonth—because losing even one life to heart disease is too many. #MeritStrong
Rocking the red in support of #HeartMonth! Looking great, Team Merit! ❤️ #CompanyCulture #MeritStrong
Merit Medical is a company with heart. We’re a team with a common goal of improving the lives of people worldwide, which is why we dressed for the occasion, together shining a bright light on #HeartMonth. #MeritStrong
We’re spreading the love all throughout #HeartMonth by wearing red and showing off our solidarity as a team. By raising awareness of heart disease today, we’re all working together for a healthier tomorrow. #MeritStrong
No matter where we are or what we do at Merit, our team is honoring #HeartMonth together. #MeritStrong #CompanyCulture
Happy #HeartMonth from our team in Richmond, VA! #MeritStrong
Merit Richmond facility employees are getting their hearts pumping with a morning #HeartMonth workout! Thank you, Rosalind Johnson, Merit HR Manager, for putting this workout together and prepping healthy snacks for the Merit team!
Today is #WearRedDay, a time we all come together to spread awareness about #heartdisease. Thank you to our Merit São Paulo team for recognizing this important cause! #HeartMonth
It’s June and officially Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to the raising awareness of health issues that affect men and boys, encouraging early detection and treatment of these conditions.
At Merit Medical, it’s our goal to not only provide the tools physicians need to treat and improve patient outcomes but also share knowledge and increase awareness surrounding risk factors for disease.
We understand that illness affects both men and women, but to offer the best patient care, it’s also important to shed light on diseases that are more prevalent in one sex versus the other.
Here are just some of the illnesses that are seen more frequently among men—and how we help care for each.
ESOPHAGEAL CANCER
Esophageal cancer is cancer found in the esophagus—the hollow, muscular tube in your body that carries food and liquid from the throat to the stomach. Men are around three times more likely than women to have esophageal cancer.
Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs. It is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The overall chance of a man developing lung cancer in his lifetime is approximately 1 in 15, whereas for a woman, the risk is about 1 in 17.
Although more women than men are diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, or CKD, men are more likely to reach kidney failure sooner.
Although kidney failure can happen to anyone, men may be more at risk compared to women due to differences in hormones and living unhealthier lifestyles.
The aorta runs from the heart through the center of the chest and abdomen. It’s the main blood vessel that brings blood to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs. An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the vessel enlarges, putting it at risk of bursting. Men are 4-15 times more likely to develop an AAA than women
A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood. As time passes without receiving treatment, the more damage is done to the heart. The main cause of a heart attack is coronary artery disease (CAD). Researchers have found that throughout life, men are about twice as likely as women to have a heart attack.
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of primary liver cancer and is most often seen in people with chronic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis caused by hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Worldwide, HCC is the fourth leading cause of cancer death and is 3 times more common among males than females.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is the enlargement of the prostate gland and affects only men. It becomes more common as men get older. Up to 90% of men over the age of 80 have BPH. Although BPH is noncancerous, it can cause bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms.
At Merit Medical, our goal is to improve the lives of people, families, and communities worldwide. An important part of this is caring for men’s health by providing the products and therapies needed for patients to live at their best.
Before using, refer to Instructions for Use for indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and directions for use.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/MensHealth-ArticleFeature-520x370-1.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2021-06-16 10:07:022022-02-14 18:12:20Merit Brings Awareness to Men’s Health During the Month of June
Merit Medical is proud to announce the launch of the SafeGuard Focus, a revolutionary compression device designed specifically for use in patients with pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) pockets. Available in two unique versions—a contoured adhesive dressing and an adhesive-free flexible strap—the SafeGuard Focus is designed to provide accurate and quick hemostasis that is also comfortable for the patient.
Pacemakers and ICDs are placed in a “pocket” under the skin as a therapeutic option to monitor, detect, and control abnormal heart rhythms. To provide compression care to this patient population, electrophysiologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals will often utilize pocket compression products on the market that fall short of effective, turn to handmade pressure bandages as an alternative, or rely on antithrombin products that can result in potential side effects1 for the patient.
Listening to physician feedback, Merit created the SafeGuard Focus as a reliable solution to this common clinical challenge, designed to reduce the risk of pocket bleeding2 and the risk of subsequent infection.1,3
Advanced SafeGuard Focus features and benefits include:
More Targeted Pressure Delivers nearly 2x the pressure versus handmade compression devices.4,5
Merit is committed to understanding the clinical challenges healthcare providers face, then innovating and delivering advanced product solutions that address these needs. The SafeGuard Focus Compression Device is one such solution, a revolutionary addition to the Merit Hemostasis portfolio and to electrophysiology labs worldwide.
Learn more about the SafeGuard Focus by exploring its product page or by connecting with our Customer Support Center to see how you can incorporate it and other Merit hemostasis solutions into your electrophysiology practice today.
REFERENCES
Essebag V et al. 2016. “Clinically Significant Pocket Hematoma Increases Long-Term Risk of Device Infection.” Journal of the American College of Cardiology 67, no. 11 (March): 1300–1308. PMID: 26988951.
American Heart Association. 2000. “ECC Guidelines Part 5: New Guidelines for First Aid.” Circulation 102 (suppI_1): I-77–I-85.
Baddour LM et al. 2010. “Update on Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Device Infections and Their Management—A Scientific Statement from the American Heart Association and on behalf of the American Heart Association Rheumatic Fever, Endocarditis, and Kawasaki Disease Committee of the Council on Cardiovascular Disease in the Young.” Circulation121: 458–477. PMID: 20048212.
Design Verification for SafeGuard Focus REP 20-0118F.00101 Revision 001 Final Report (ECN144963).
* Adhesive version only. ** The adhesive portion of the SafeGuard Focus should not be used over damaged skin.
VELCRO® is a registered trademark of Velcro IP Holdings LLC. Used with permission.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SafeGuardFocus-FeatureImage.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2021-02-12 11:02:252022-06-08 12:46:32Introducing the SafeGuard Focus™, Revolutionary Compression for Pacemakers and ICD Pockets
For nearly 30 years, Merit Medical has been a market leader in inflation device technology. By listening to and applying product feedback, we’re able to use this information to innovate inflation device solutions to meet clinician requirements of faster inflation, accuracy, and reliability.
To enhance our inflation device offerings, starting this month we’ve streamlined kits for the basixCOMPAK™ Inflation Device. These inflation device kit options are designed to deliver better product optimization, increase inventory availability, provide efficient product deliveries, and create added pricing transparency.
At Merit Medical, we understand what makes an exceptional inflation device, and we’re proud to innovate and improve our products, delivering the solutions you need for your interventional procedures. This commitment to excellence allows us to provide you with a portfolio that remains inventive yet reliable with kits that better meet your needs, offering the security and confidence in performance you expect from every Merit product.
SwiftNINJA® Overcomes Challenges of Selective Catheterization
Selective catheterization can be associated with several challenges, such as acute angle branching, blood vessel tortuosity, and small targeted vessel diameter.1 The SwiftNINJA Steerable Microcatheter by Merit Medical, a straight tip catheter that articulates up to 180 degrees in opposing directions, is designed to rapidly select challenging vascular ostium.
A case report by Soyama et al.1 found multiple benefits to using the SwiftNINJA in catheterizations involving acute angle branches as well as a new technique of intentional folding of embolization coils for compact coil packing. The authors found that using a steerable microcatheter made the procedure easier compared to using a conventional device.
The study, published in CardioVascular and Interventional Radiology,1 discussed the following two cases:
CASE 1: CATHETERIZATION OF ACUTE ANGLE BRANCHES
A male patient in his 60s presented with an angiomyolipoma of the left kidney. CT images showed an 8-cm tumor of the left kidney, which had enlarged. To prevent tumor rupture, transcatheter arterial embolization was conducted.
Using the Seldinger technique, a 5F J-shaped sheath introducer was placed percutaneously into the aorta via the left femoral artery. Selective left renal arteriography was performed with a 4F cobra-shaped catheter.
The arteriogram showed two arterial branches of the superior renal capsular artery supplying the primary blood flow to the tumor, both branching out from the main left renal artery with an acute angle of origin. Due to the acute angle branching, Soyama and his team were unable to selectively insert a manually tip-shaped guide wire and instead used the SwiftNINJA as follows:
STEP 1: Bent the tip to turn the orifice of the targeted branch by dial manipulation at the proximal handgrip. Fixed the shape of the tip with the dial stopper.
STEP 2: Inserted a 0.016-in guide wire into the targeted branch.
STEP 3: Unlocked the dial stopper. Pushed the microcatheter deep into the targeted branch using the over-the-wire method.
RESULTS: Catheterization of two targeted branches was completed within 3 minutes. Successful embolization of the target branches followed.
CASE 2: INTENTIONAL FOLDING OF METALLIC COILS IN THE BLOOD VESSEL
A male patient in his 60s presented with right maxillary cancer and was admitted for transcatheter arterial infusion chemotherapy combined with irradiation.
A 5F sheath introducer was percutaneously placed into the aorta via the right femoral artery followed by selective insertion of a 5F catheter into the right common carotid artery. The SwiftNINJA was then inserted into the right internal and external carotid artery.
Selective angiogram showed the targeted tumor was being supplied by the right internal maxillary artery, the transverse facial artery, and the facial artery. It was embolized with pushable metal coils with the intention of creating compact packing of the coils to strengthen the embolic effect and prevent reperfusion:
STEP 1: Bent the tip of the SwiftNINJA inside the blood vessel using the proximal dial, maintained tip shape, and slowly pushed the coil. The coil was intentionally folded by the change in tip direction. Compact packing was achieved.
STEP 2: Pushed the second coil into the targeted blood vessel in the same way, completing the embolization using compact coil packing of the right superficial temporal artery.
In procedures such as these, selective catheterization can be very difficult, in some cases forcing a physician to abandon the catheterization all together—even if the shape of the guide wire and catheter was chosen to fit a desired vessel branch.1
In contrast, the SwiftNINJA “has the potential to make selective catheterization easier than when using the conventional device, due to the ability to control the tip shape,” the authors write.1
In the first case,1 the SwiftNINJA allowed the user to shape the tip to the targeted branches easily and properly when needed. It could also be manipulated during catheterization without removing it to reshape the tip, which the authors said could potentially make selective catheterization easier.
The authors1 suggested that in the second case, the SwiftNINJA could be useful for both selective catheterization and compact packing of metallic coils where adjusting and maintaining microcatheter tip shape can be a challenge. Using a steerable microcatheter, they write, “enables the user to easily create an initial loop of the inserted coil and intentionally fold the coils with the stiffly bent catheter tip.”
Soyama et al.1 concluded that the SwiftNINJA “has the potential . . . to allow difficult catheterizations to be completed more easily.”1
SWIFTNINJA KEY FEATURES
Several features and benefits enable the SwiftNINJA to be the solution needed during challenging interventional procedures:180-Degree Steerable Tip The SwiftNINJA’s steerable tip provides speed, navigation, and support—even in the most challenging vascular anatomy. An ergonomic steering dial enables the catheter tip to be deflected from straight to opposing directions up to 180 degrees, allowing for in vivo steering control. Steering Lock Once the SwiftNINJA’s tip is positioned at a desired location, it can be locked to hold the shape of that position. The tip will remain positioned for embolic placement without the worry of recoil, loss of position, or embolic displacement. Multi-Dimensional Steering Once the catheter is shaped into a desired position, the SwiftNINJA can then be torqued and advanced through the vasculature, providing 3D steering as it moves in two planes simultaneously. Tungsten-Braided Shaft Built with a tungsten-braided shaft, the SwiftNINJA provides support and pushability when navigating tortuous vasculature. Cost Efficiency Because the SwiftNINJA can navigate through complex blood vessels and reach target anatomy quickly, it can be a cost-effective option compared to failed attempts using numerous catheters. As mentioned by Soyama et al.,1 the SwiftNINJA made their procedure easier to perform than using a conventional device.
Similarly, another case study by Hinrichs et al.2 described successful coil embolization of a small hepatointestinal collateral with the SwiftNINJA after failed attempts with other catheters. Henrichs et al.2 write, “taking into account the numerous regular microcatheters that were used without success in our two cases, the appropriate use of a steerable microcatheter can be even more cost-effective with regard to the total material costs.” Merit Medical is committed to providing the medical devices needed to improve and transform healthcare. Discover the SwiftNINJA Steerable Microcatheter by visiting the product page and the Merit Medical Customer Support Center for more information.
Soyama et al. 2017. “The Steerable Microcatheter: A New Device for Selective Catheterization,” CardioVascular and Interventional Radiology 40, no. 6: 947-952, PMID: 28138724.
Hinrichs et al. 2017. “Coil Embolization of Reversed-Curve Hepatointestinal Collaterals in Radioembolization: Potential Solutions for a Challenging Task,” Radiology Case Reports 12, no. 3: 529-533, PMID: 28828119.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/SwiftNINJA-ArticleFeature-570x370-1.jpg370570Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2020-12-18 08:30:202022-06-08 12:45:17SwiftNINJA® Overcomes Challenges of Selective Catheterization
Endovascular Balloon Use Increases Survival in Patients with SVC Tears
Superior vena cava (SVC) tears are one of the most-deadly complications in transvenous lead extraction procedures. Although rare, occurring at 0.46% of all lead extractions performed, more than half of these SVC tears end in mortality.1 A multi-year analysis published in Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology, showed that when an endovascular balloon was used, patients undergoing lead extraction were more likely to survive.1
Transvenous lead extraction is considered safe and effective with a low major complication rate.1 However, complications can occur—one being the dangerous and often lethal SVC tear. In such situations, an endovascular balloon is used to occlude the SVC tear, preventing blood loss and offering more time for repair.
Azarrafyi et al.1 collected data on adverse events in lead extraction between July 1, 2016, and July 31, 2018. SVC tears were examined for patient demographics, case details, and index hospitalization mortality.
Results1 showed 116 confirmed SVC events. Out of these, 44% involved proper endovascular balloon use, and 56% did not use a balloon or had improper use of one. Proper use of an endovascular balloon led to 45 of 51 patients (88.2%) surviving in comparison to 37 of 65 patients (56.9%) where a balloon was not used or was improperly used (P=0.0002). Proper balloon deployment was an independent, negative predictor of in-hospital mortality for patients who experienced an SVC tear (odds ratio, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.04–0.40; P<0.001).
The authors of the study concluded that patients undergoing lead extraction were more likely to survive SVC tears when treatment included an endovascular balloon.1
To care for patients with SVC tears, Merit Medical offers the Vitale™, an occlusion balloon that maintains hemostasis for up to 30 minutes,2 intended to allow time for patients to stabilize and transition to surgery.
Clinician evaluations3 comparing the 8F and 10F Vitale with a competing endovascular balloon showed the Vitale to have a faster placement time of 30 seconds (1:28 vs. 1:58). Clinicians also reported the Vitale 8F and 10F to have softer tips that are less traumatic to the vasculature.
Additional benefits of the Vitale Occlusion Balloon:
Faster Inflation4 Ensures any tear is occluded promptly.
Smallest Footprint on the Market 8F has same capabilities as a larger balloon.
To further prep clinicians for procedures, Merit offers the Vitale in a premier kit, conveniently providing the tools needed for SVC treatment.
Kit Contents, 8F Balloon
Kit Contents, 10F Balloon
60 cc VacLok® Syringe
60 cc VacLok® Syringe
8F Prelude SNAP™ Hydrophilic Sheath Kit
6F Prelude SNAP™ Hydrophilic Sheath Kit
InQwire® Amplatz Guidewire 0.035″ X 260 cm 3 mm J Tip
10F Prelude SNAP™ Hydrophilic Sheath Kit
InQwire® Amplatz Guidewire 0.035″ X 260 cm 3 mm J Tip
Discover the Vitale Occlusion Balloon by visiting the product page and contacting Customer Support for more information.
Because when it comes to SVC tears, every second counts.
The occlusion balloon catheter is indicated for temporary occlusion of large vessels, including the superior vena cava, in applications including perioperative occlusion and emergency control of hemorrhage. This device is intended for use by interventionalists and endovascular specialists who are familiar with the complications, side effects, and dangers associated with using this device. Before using, refer to Instructions for Use for indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and directions for use.
References
Azarrafyi et al. 2019. “Endovascular Occlusion Balloon for Treatment of Superior Vena Cava Tears During Transvenous Lead Extraction: A Multiyear Analysis and an Update to Best Practice Protocol.” Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology 12(8): e007266. PMID: 31401856.
Data on File.
Clinician Evaluations, Final Report. Data on File.
Data on File.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/VitaleArticle-Feature-520x370-1.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2020-11-20 12:11:002022-06-08 12:12:21Endovascular Balloon Use Increases Survival in Patients with SVC Tears
Prelude IDeal™ Provides Real Solution to Common Radial Access Challenge
During radial access procedures, many thin-walled sheath introducers on the market pose the risk of kinking or compressing, either near the access site or inside the radial artery, resulting in wires, catheters, and other devices unable to move through. After years of research, the Merit R&D team built the Prelude IDeal™, a hydrophilic sheath introducer designed to specifically resist kinking and compression while also facilitate smooth device movement and exchange, providing a real solution to this common radial access challenge.
THINNER BUT STRONGER
To combat both kinking and compression, the Merit R&D team envisioned a sheath with a wall that was thinner and stronger than the products physicians currently used.
To achieve this balance, they developed a composite braiding technology to serve as the inner layer of the Prelude IDeal sheath, giving it a 13% thinner wall than the leading thin-walled sheath competitor.1 Unlike other thin-walled sheaths, the braiding of the Prelude IDeal also gives it structural integrity to increase kinking and compression resistance, making it 124% more resistant to sidewall compression and 23% more kink resistant than the leading competitor.1
SAME OD, LARGER ID
With a thinner wall, the Prelude IDeal maintains the same sheath outer diameter (OD) as the market leader but larger inner diameter (ID). This increased internal capacity enables smooth wire, catheter, and device manipulation and exchange.
MADE FOR RADIAL
The Prelude IDeal was developed specifically with radial access in mind. Combining a thinner wall with a composite braiding technology enable the Prelude IDeal to maintain structural integrity, protecting the sheath from compression during vessel spasm, a potential side effect of radial artery access.
In addition, the Prelude IDeal’s kink resistance is crucial when implementing the distal radial technique, where the anatomy of the hand can be more tortuous and accessing the vessel at an increased upright angle is necessary. The robust structure of the Prelude IDeal makes it a practical device choice in distal radial procedures.
WITHSTANDS EXTERNAL PRESSURE
A typical thin-walled sheath may collapse, for example, when it encounters a narrowing of the vessel, preventing catheters and wires from passing through.
With structural integrity provided by its braided composite structure, the Prelude IDeal withstands the natural bends and curves of the artery and aids in straightening the vessel, allowing catheter manipulation and torque without sheath compression.
DISCOVER THE PRELUDE IDEAL
The Prelude IDeal Hydrophilic Sheath Introducer has become the tool of choice for radial and distal radial access procedures around the globe. Its story is much like Merit’s overall goal—to listen to the needs of physicians and innovate ways to improve patient care.
6F Data on File. Merit assumes no responsibility to update test data.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/PreludeIDeal-Article-Feature-520x370-2.png555780Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2020-09-08 13:18:542022-04-29 09:38:47Prelude IDeal™ Provides Real Solution to Common Radial Access Challenge
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/AHM2020-Article-Square-520x370-1.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2020-02-02 08:00:002022-01-31 11:07:58American Heart Month at Merit
Prepare for Angiography — Merit’s Procedure Trays With Gowns
Merit is aware of a disruption to the availability of custom procedural trays including AAMI level 3 surgical gowns provided by Cardinal Healthcare. We want to notify you that Merit Medical can quickly provide you with a suitable tray or pack replacement allowing you to perform critical diagnostic and interventional procedures. Cardinal is a valued partner in healthcare delivery to Merit Medical and our highest priority is to ensure that patients we mutually serve receive the care they need as quickly and efficiently as possible.
In addition to manufacturing medical devices for Interventional Cardiology and Radiology, Merit offers kits, packs, and trays in standard and custom configurations and assembles and distributes these to customers from a highly advanced and automated facility in Richmond, VA.
The above suggested tray is a suitable replacement for the majority of the affected packs that are used in Interventional Cardiology, Interventional Radiology, and Vascular Surgery.
Merit utilizes an ISO-certified manufacturer of level 3 gowns that are different from those affected.
If you require additional fluid administration items such as manifold kits, waste bags, Medallion® syringes, Merit can provide those items to ensure you have all of the products you need to complete cases.
TO LEARN MORE
Contact Customer Service
Phone: 801-208-4469
Email: [email protected]
Please consult the product labels and inserts for any indications, contraindications, potential complications, warnings, precautions and directions for use.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/StandardAngioTray-Article-520x370-1.png370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2020-01-30 11:48:342022-02-24 10:36:13Prepare for Angiography — Merit’s Procedure Trays With Gowns
For Nearly Two Decades, Merit Compression Devices Deliver Quality and Confidence
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Article-Square-Merit-Compression-Devices-520x370-vA-1.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2019-10-14 17:56:282020-11-03 07:13:28Merit Recognizes Infection Prevention Week with a Strong History of Keeping Clinicians and Patients Safe
Introducing the Merit RadialFLO™ Arterial Catheter—the Next Wave in Caring for Critically Ill Patients
Merit is proud to introduce the RadialFLO™ Arterial Catheter, a first-step device in setting up a pressure monitoring and closed blood sampling system. Engineered for peripheral access to the arterial system, the RadialFLO’s advanced features enable clinicians to gather hemodynamic data, helping to improve patient care. With the addition of the RadialFLO, Merit is now able to offer critical care clinicians a complete solution for hemodynamic pressure monitoring.
To simplify radial arterial access, the RadialFLO is built with a notched needle that provides instant blood return to confirm access. The needle is also silicone coated for smooth insertion. Once access is achieved, the Integral FloSwitch® controls blood flow to allow the clinician to connect the pressure monitoring system, minimizing unwanted blood exposure.
The RadialFLO plays a synergistic role within the Merit critical care line of products, providing a complete solution for setting up a patient-centric monitoring system. Clinicians begin the process by leveraging Merit’s broad array of packs and accessories to prepare the patient for radial access. Once access is achieved with the RadialFlo Arterial Catheter, Merit’s Safedraw® Closed Arterial Blood Sampling System seamlessly connects to the catheter to form the pressure monitoring system. Lastly, Merit’s Pressure Infusor Bag operates atop the IV pole to infuse saline to maintain signal integrity and line patency.
Merit also offers critical care educational opportunities to improve patient and clinician safety. Throughout the year, Think Safety and Infection Prevention™ live and recorded webinars and educational events are held to help healthcare professionals learn the techniques, tools, and methods that can improve patient outcomes as well as prevent costly medical errors and hospital-associated infection. Critical care nurses, perioperative nurses, and infection control and safety committee members are welcome to attend.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Radial-Flo-Article-Square.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2019-04-11 10:35:522021-12-08 17:33:49Introducing the Merit RadialFLO™ Arterial Catheter—the Next Wave in Caring for Critically Ill Patients
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/SIR-Booth-520-x-370.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2019-03-23 10:55:142021-12-08 14:37:53Recap of SIR 2019
Merit in the News: I-CRT Featured in DAIC
Diagnostic and Interventional Cardiology (DAIC) recently featured an article titled “Use of the Interventional CRT Approach to Solve Issues With LV Lead Placement.” Written by Matthew S. McKillop, MD, and Seth J. Worley, MD, the article discusses how adopting the interventional cardiac resynchronization therapy (I-CRT) method may offer electrophysiologists a greater ability to adapt to difficult patient anatomy, providing a better way to place a left ventricular (LV) lead in comparison to conventional placement techniques.
Originally developed by interventional cardiologists and radiologists, the I-CRT approach is based on a set of tools and techniques now repurposed and used for coronary sinus cannulation and LV lead implantation. An entirely different path to LV lead placement, I-CRT helps electrophysiologists take on exceptionally challenging cases by controlling the anatomy and allowing for multiple adjustments during a procedure.
In the article, Drs. McKillop and Worley address seven complex situations that may be encountered during LV lead placement and follow up with how Interventional CRT provides solutions. The authors write that in some of these examples, “I-CRT offers a solution where the only other viable option is to abandon the case.” Read the full DAIC article.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Worley-article-square.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2019-02-11 13:29:462021-12-01 15:35:27Merit in the News: I-CRT Featured in DAIC
Distal Transradial Access Is Taking Social Media by Storm
Distal transradial access—also known by its hashtags #dTRA, #ldTRA, and #rdTRA—is taking social media by storm. An alternative site for conventional transradial access, distal radial access uses the anatomical snuffbox, a method that’s being widely adopted across several fields.
From experiences and preferred products to the latest research and more, physicians are sharing their knowledge through strings of tweets, retweets, and likes—a virtual Twitter buzz signaling that distal transradial is gaining traction both online and off.
Interventional cardiologists can be seen posting their positive procedural experiences and using cutting-edge distal devices.
Other physicians are tweeting distal transradial advantages, whereas several, like this neurointerventionalist, are posting published case studies demonstrating distal radial’s feasibility in their field.
Some are using social media to share ideas and seek opinions.
And others log on to talk about their day spent with interventional radiologist and cardiologist trainees and just how cool it is to be an interventionalist during the #RadialFirst era.
We couldn’t agree more. Join the conversation. We look forward to hearing about your experiences with distal transradial access. For more information about distal including videos, resources and training opportunities, visit Merit.com/Distal.
https://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Distal-Featured-Image-520-x-370.jpg370520Amy Swensenhttps://www.merit.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/merit-medical-header-logo.dk2_.svgAmy Swensen2019-01-23 15:07:452021-12-01 16:29:10Distal Transradial Access Is Taking Social Media by Storm