The Solutions for Your Clinical Challenges - Merit Medical

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

Biopsy Solution

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.

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CARDIAC CATHETERIZATION

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.

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CRITICAL CARE

Critical Care Solutions

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.

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DIALYSIS ACCESS

Dialysis Access Solution

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.

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PERITONEAL DIALYSIS

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.

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RADIAL

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.

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DISTAL RADIAL ACCESS

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.

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DRAINAGE

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.

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ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY & CRM

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.

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EMBOLOTHERAPY

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.

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GASTROENTEROLOGY STRICTURE MANAGEMENT

GI Stricture Management

Merit Endoscopy’s fully covered, laser-cut esophageal stent technology provides for accurate placement and minimized migration. In addition to our state-of-the-art stent technology, we deliver best-in-class dilation products, including our BIG60® Inflation Device and our Elation dilation balloons as well as enhanced physician training.

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PULMONARY STRICTURE MANAGEMENT

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.

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KITS & PACKS

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.

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SPINE

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.

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VENOUS

Venous Solutions from Merit Medical

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.

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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.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Let’s Talk Lung Cancer: An In-Depth Interview with Dr. Reddy

Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide.1 In the United States, more people die from lung cancer than any other type of cancer.2 November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and to help us gain a better understanding of the condition, the screening process, and treatment options, we sat down with Chakravarthy Reddy, MD, pulmonologist at the University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, UT.

What Is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer occurs when cells in the lungs change or mutate, resulting in abnormal cell growth. These cells multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor and spreading to other parts of the body.

“Stage one or stage two, where patients are potentially curable, have almost no symptoms at all; it’s always incidentally found,” Dr. Reddy explains. “A patient has a scan for some other reason, and the cancer is detected in the lungs.”

When lung cancer symptoms do manifest, they can include a cough that worsens or does not resolve, chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, wheezing, weakness or fatigue, and weight loss.4 “Unfortunately, by the time a patient presents with symptoms, they’re in advanced stages, and their survival is not as good,” says Dr. Reddy.

What Are Risk Factors for Lung Cancer?

Smoking is by far the leading cause of lung cancer, putting people who smoke at a significantly higher risk of developing lung cancer compared to non-smokers.5

In addition to smoking, breathing secondhand smoke is also dangerous, increasing the risk of lung cancer.6 “We always talk about smokers, but there is a correlation between people who live with smokers and their risk for developing lung cancer,” Dr. Reddy adds. “Secondhand exposure does increase the risk of developing cancer.”

The American Cancer Society lists other risk factors for lung cancer, which include:5

Risks and Warnings

Radon
A naturally occurring radioactive gas, radon is the breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. Potential risk areas are homes with basements.

Asbestos
Asbestos is a mineral fiber that occurs in rock and soil.7 People who work with asbestos (e.g., in mines, mills, textile plants, shipyards, and where insulation is used) are several times more likely to die of lung cancer.

Carcinogens
Exposure to cancer-causing agents, such as uranium, arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, nickel compounds, coal products, and diesel exhaust can increase lung cancer risk.

Personal or Family History
If an individual has lung cancer, there is a higher risk of developing another lung cancer. Brothers, sisters, and children of people who have had lung cancer may have a higher risk.

Previous Radiation Therapy to the Lungs
People who have had radiation therapy to the chest for other cancers are at a higher risk of lung cancer, particularly if they smoke.

Air Pollution
In cities, air pollution can increase the risk of lung cancer, with some research suggesting approximately 5% of all deaths from lung cancer may be due to outdoor air pollution.

Who Should Be Screened for Lung Cancer?

The recommended screening test for lung cancer is a low-dose CT scan.8 According to the United States Preventive Services Task Force, those eligible for screening must meet the three-pronged criteria:9

Age ǀ Adults aged 50-80 years
Smoking History ǀ Individuals with a 20 pack-year smoking history
Tobacco Exposure ǀ Current smokers or those who have quit within the past 15 years

Age is a straightforward benchmark, but calculating a pack-year may seem foreign to most. “Multiply the number of packs of cigarettes you smoke per day by the number of years you’ve smoked. This gives you the value, which we call pack-years,” Dr. Reddy explains. An example would be if a person has smoked a pack of cigarettes for 20 years or two packs for 10 years, each of these instances would calculate a 20 pack-year history.

The third criterion addresses tobacco exposure—but what is the significance of a 15-year time span? “It takes about 15 years for the risk [of lung cancer] to normalize,” Dr. Reddy says. “If it’s been less than 15 years since the patient quit, then the third criterion for lung cancer screening is met.”

This also means if a patient does not meet the criteria, screening will not happen. Dr. Reddy encourages people who are under 50 who have a 20 pack-year history to speak with a physician about any concerns, personal risk factors, and the benefits of being screened.

What Lung Cancer Treatment Options Are Available?

When lung cancer is caught early, there are more curative options. Unfortunately, as Dr. Reddy mentioned, lung cancer is normally caught in late stages. A surgery called a lobectomy, which removes one of the lobes in the lung, is only an option for stage 1 or 2 cancer. “Patients who come in with lung cancer don’t have healthy lungs to begin with,” Dr. Reddy says. “It’s more likely they also have emphysema from smoking, and they probably won’t tolerate removal of even a lobe.”

If a patient’s lung function is borderline, Dr. Reddy suggests another surgical option called a wedge resection, where the lobe is spared, and only the cancer is removed. “It’s not preferred, but if that’s the only option, it’s better than not doing anything,” Dr. Reddy says. “If their lung function is any worse than that, then we clearly cannot do any surgery at all. We have to think of second-line approaches, such as radiation therapy.”

According to Dr. Reddy, lung cancer that spreads first to the lymph nodes in the chest is still potentially curable. However, once it leaves the chest and invades the chest cavity and other parts of the body, such as the adrenal glands, the brain, or bones, it is potentially no longer curable. When this occurs, palliative care is the only option, relieving symptoms and mitigating suffering while optimizing patient quality of life.

Elation Pulmonary Balloon Dilater - Pulmonology Products - Merit Endoscopy

To relieve common lung cancer symptoms, such as shortness of breath or a persistent cough, there are options. “One of the things we do is use balloons to dilate [the airway passages],” Dr. Reddy explains. “Merit makes Elation® balloons, which we find extremely useful, especially because they are available in short, two-centimeter balloon configurations.”

AERO Tracheobronchial Stent - Pulmonology Products - Merit Med Endoscopy

A second approach is to stent the tumor in the lung to maintain the patency of the airway. An option for this line of treatment would be Merit’s AERO® Tracheobronchial Stents. “Patients notice an improvement immediately, almost right after they wake up from the procedure,” Dr. Reddy says. “The radial force of the AERO stent actually keeps the airway open, and that improves shortness of breath.”

Lung Cancer Awareness Resources

As lung cancer awareness is heightened this month, it is critical to share facts about the importance of screening with loved ones and encourage those who smoke to quit.

Knowledge is power, and having health resources to help understand lung cancer better is important. In addition to information about the disease, the below organizations provide a wide range of topics, including survivor stories and ways to get involved throughout the month, helping patients and families in their battle against lung cancer:

Lung Cancer Foundation of America
American Lung Association
GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer

Support for Merit Employees

If you smoke and need help quitting, sign up for our Employee Smoking Cessation program. Contact Dr. Priest for more information.

Merit Medical is dedicated to improving the lives of people, families, and communities worldwide. Learn more about the trusted interventional and palliative treatment options we offer to help physicians care for lung cancer patients.

References:

  1. World Health Organization. 2021. “Cancer Key Facts.” https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2021. “Lung Cancer Statistics.” https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/statistics/
  3. American Lung Association. 2021. “Lung Cancer Basics.” https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lung-cancer/basics
  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2021. “What Are the Symptoms of Lung Cancer?” https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/basic_info/symptoms.htm
  5. American Cancer Society. 2019. “Lung Cancer Risk Factors.” https://www.cancer.org/cancer/lung-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html
  6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2021. “Health Effects of Secondhand Smoke.” https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fact_sheets/secondhand_smoke/health_effects/index.htm
  7. United States Environmental Protection Agency. n.d. “Learn About Asbestos.” https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/learn-about-asbestos
  8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2021. “Who Should Be Screened for Lung Cancer?” https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/basic_info/screening.htm
  9. United States Preventive Task Force. 2021. “Lung Cancer: Screening.” https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/lung-cancer-screening
Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Merit’s Commitment to Breast Cancer Awareness

Breast Cancer Awareness MonthMerit Medical is committed to reducing the burden that cancer places on patients and their loved ones. To further demonstrate this commitment for the third year in a row, Merit is partnering with and supporting Breastcancer.org, an organization dedicated to helping women make sense of the complex medical information about breast cancer, so they can make the best decisions for their lives.

Throughout October, Merit joins Breastcancer.org to advocate the importance of mammography screening in detecting breast cancer at its earliest stages.

For those diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing surgery, watch the video below to see how SCOUT® is improving the patient experience.

Want to see how Merit employees were supporting Breast Cancer Awareness in 2021? Take a look here.

SCOUT Radar Localization - Expanding to Europe, Middle East and Africa

A Physician’s Perspective on Wire-Free Localization

Everett Bonner MD - SCOUT Physician

INTRODUCTION

Everett Bonner, MD, is a general surgeon specializing in surgical breast oncology at the Baton Rouge Clinic a large, multi-specialty clinic in Baton Rouge, LA. Dr. Bonner joined the group after completing his Surgical Breast Oncology Fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY.

Dr. Bonner performs on average 25-30 breast surgical procedures a month at Baton Rouge General Hospital, which implemented their wire-free program with SCOUT in 2019. Dr. Bonner led the SCOUT implementation and shares his perspectives.

What was your primary motivator in evaluating and switching to a wire-free technology?

I think the biggest motivating factor was the problems we had with wire localization. Let’s be honest, no one likes them, not the physicians and certainly not the patients. Wires were becoming dislodged; patients were a bit “freaked out” about a 10-inch wire hanging out of their breast covered by a paper cup.

I always thought sterilization was an issue. We are always so conscious of this in the OR, yet we have this 10-inch wire that was exposed to all kinds of elements for a few hours. I say that a localization with SCOUT facilitates a more sterile surgery.

I also perform Hidden Scar Surgery, and a wire localization made it very difficult for me to place the incision exactly where I wanted. Utilizing the SCOUT technology has eliminated that issue. I have total freedom to place my incision where the patient will not see it and have a constant reminder of her cancer. In a lot of my cases, I can make one hidden incision under the arm for the tumor and the sentinel node.

It has revolutionized my practice – it has been a game changer.

Were you familiar with other wire-free technologies?

SCOUT Radar Localization - Expanding to Europe, Middle East and Africa

 

We did not trial SCOUT first. We trialed two other wire-free options, and we were not very happy. With one we had to continuously adjust equipment, and with the other we would have needed to switch to a whole new standard of surgical instruments.

For us, SCOUT was the technology of choice. It was more user friendly, and we would not have to rebuy all new instrumentation. It has worked out extremely well for the hospital, for our practice, and we have never looked back. In fact, my associates and I now almost localize exclusively with SCOUT, and most of us have not used a wire localization in more than a year.

Since using SCOUT, how has it affected your surgical outcomes?

It has been a game changer in three key areas. First and foremost, my re-excision rate is down to less than 5% (the national average is about 10%). I spend less time in the OR, and infection rates have dropped.

I think a very important point is that I use SCOUT, not only for localization, but for real-time guidance during surgery. I am constantly using SCOUT as I am doing my circumferential dissection around the tumor. I am constantly relocating to make sure I am not too close to the tumor, and once I have removed the tumor, I do a margin assessment circumferentially. If it looks like I am too close into a particular margin, I will go back and take additional tissue.

Also, not to be minimized is the fact that I can perform a lumpectomy in about 30 – 45 minutes, as opposed to the hour and a half it normally takes with a wire localization. That is less OR time, less anesthesia for the patient, which all adds up to safety and cost savings.

What can you tell us from a patient’s perspective about a wire-free experience?

Patients love it! I do a lot of patient education upfront, and I am very detailed in explaining the whole surgical experience. I get rave reviews on how “cool” SCOUT, is and they love that they cannot see or feel it, especially patients who have had a past wire localization experience.

At first, I did get a bit of push back about making a trip to the hospital to get the reflector placed, but once I explain that it can be done in conjunction with pre-admission testing, that concern was alleviated.

Patients really appreciate the value of new technology. It is good for them and good for the practice. Being on the forefront of new technology has improved my patient volume. We do little advertising. Therefore, its popularity has been purely by word of mouth.

What are the main outcomes a physician should expect from their wire-free technology?

The number one thing is cleaner margins and the potential to decrease your re-excision rate. Like I mentioned before, my rate is now half of what it was with a wire.

Number two is patient comfort and satisfaction. Patients are nervous enough going to surgery. Add the discomfort and the trauma of a wire sticking out of their breast and that is not patient centric. SCOUT has changed all of that.

The third one, and I think also a major consideration, is precision. You can take less tissue because you know exactly where you are going as you dissect the tumor, which results in a more cosmetically appealing result. Some surgeons say, “Just take a larger tissue sample.” But my question is why when SCOUT is so precise? With this localization and guidance technology, you can take less tissue and have good margins as well as a better cosmetic outcome.

This information is for the practitioner’s convenience and for general information purposes only. This information does not constitute medical or legal advice, nor is it meant to endorse or guarantee the suitability of any of the referenced products or methods for any specific patient or procedure. Before using any product, refer to the Instructions for Use (IFU) for indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and directions for use.
Merit Medical Brings Awareness to Men's Health

Merit Brings Awareness to Men’s Health During the Month of June

Merit Medical Brings Awareness to Men's HealthIt’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.

Esophageal CancerPrevention tips:

  • Avoid alcohol.
  • Eat more fruits and vegetables.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Exercise regularly.

Learn more about esophageal cancer.

MERIT PRODUCTS

EndoMAXX® Esophageal Stent
EndoMAXX

ALIMAXX-ES™ Esophageal Stent
ALIMAXX-ES

Elation® 3-Stage Fixed-Wire Dilation Balloon
Elation 3-Stage Fixed-Wire Dilation Balloon

Elation5™ Fixed-Wire Dilation Balloon
Elation5 Fixed-Wire Dilation Balloon

LUNG 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.

Lung Cancer Prevention TipsPrevention tips:

  • Quit smoking (or don’t start).
  • Stay away from secondhand smoke.
  • Test your home for radon.
  • Avoid cancer-causing chemicals.
  • Live a healthy lifestyle.

Learn more about lung cancer.

MERIT PRODUCTS

AERO® Tracheobronchial Stent
AERO Stent

AEROmini® Tracheobronchial Stent
AEROmini

Elation® Pulmonary Balloon Dilator
Elation Pulmonary Balloon Dilator

KIDNEY FAILURE

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.

Think Dialysis Access Merit Physician CoursePrevention Tips:

  • Get a kidney check-up at least every year.
  • Control your blood pressure and blood sugar.
  • Stop smoking (or don’t start).
  • Exercise and eat a healthy diet.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • If you have an enlarged prostate, talk with your doctor to make sure it’s not blocking your urinary tract.
  • Give your doctor a list of any supplements, medicines, and/or hormone treatments you’re taking to ensure they aren’t damaging your kidneys.

Learn more about kidney failure and visit our Dialysis Access Solution page.

MERIT PRODUCTS

HeRO® Graft
HeRO Graft

Surfacer® Inside-Out® Access Catheter System
Surfacer Inside-Out

Peritoneal Dialysis Catheters
PD Catheters

Dialysis Access Accessories
Dialysis Access Accessories

AORTIC ANEURYSM

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

Aortic AneurysmPrevention tips:

  • Stop smoking (or don’t start).
  • Reduce stress.
  • Exercise and eat a heart-healthy diet.
  • If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, take the medicines your doctor has prescribed.

Learn more about AAA. To learn more about our packs, wires, and other cardiac products, please visit our Merit Vascular page.

MERIT PRODUCTS

Q50® Stent Graft Balloon Catheters
Q50 Stent Graft Balloon Catheters

InQwire® Amplatz Guide Wire
InQwire Amplatz Guide Wire

HEART ATTACK

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.

Heart Attack - Men's Health MonthPrevention Tips:

  • Eat a healthy diet.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Stop smoking (or don’t start).
  • Monitor your cholesterol and blood pressure.
  • Manage your diabetes.
  • Take your prescribed medicines.

Learn more about heart attacks. Explore our Cardiac Portfolio, including our radial sheaths, catheters, wires, and compression devices.

MERIT PRODUCTS

Prelude IDeal™ Hydrophilic Sheath Introducer
Prelude IDeal

LIVER CANCER

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.

Liver Cancer - Men's Health MonthPrevention Tips:

  • Avoid heavy alcohol use.
  • Reduce exposure to aflatoxin B1.
  • Stop smoking (or don’t start).
  • Get the hepatitis B vaccine.
  • If you have hepatitis, work with your care provider to receive treatment.

Learn more about liver cancer. Visit our Hepatic Oncology portfolio.

MERIT PRODUCTS

QuadraSphere® Microspheres (US Only)
Quadrapheres

Tenor® Steerable Guidewires
Tenor Guidewires

Merit Maestro® Microcatheters
Merit Maestro

BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA (BPH)

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.

BPH - Men's Health MonthPrevention Tips:

  • Maintain a heart-healthy diet.
  • Avoid heavy alcohol use.
  • Exercise regularly.

Explore the products we offer to support prostatic artery embolization (PAE), a minimally invasive option to treat BPH.

MERIT PRODUCTS

Embosphere PRO™ Prostatic Artery Embolization Kit
Embosphere PRO Kit

True Form™ Reshapable Guide Wires
True Form Reshapable Guide Wires

SwiftNINJA® Steerable Microcatheter
SwiftNINJA

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.

Have questions? Reach out to our Customer Support team.

Before using, refer to Instructions for Use for indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and directions for use.

Merit Medical Leads Wire-Free Localization as SCOUT® Procedures Surpass 200,000

Merit Medical has achieved an important milestone as SCOUT surpassed 200,000 procedures—far exceeding any other non-radioactive wire-free device. Launched in 2016, SCOUT has realized remarkable growth and system-wide adoption in the US and global expansion since 2020. Our commitment to ongoing product enhancements, customer training and support, and clinical education contributes to this achievement. However, this milestone would not be possible without the input and support of our valued customers.

HOW DID WE GET HERE? THE SCOUT PLATFORM

With clinically insignificant MRI artifact, there is no restriction on the imaging modalities that can be used effectively throughout a patient’s treatment. This gives physicians the ability to place a reflector at the time of biopsy, prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), and to enable targeted axillary dissection. While SCOUT has been used primarily for breast tumor localization, physicians are recognizing the clinical benefits, including 1+/- mm accuracy, 60-mm depth, and 360° detection, are applicable for myriad oncological applications, including nodes, sarcoma, and lung.



1+/-
mm
Accuracy





60 mm
Depth





360°
Detection

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU

Merit Medical remains committed to you, your staff, and the patients you serve. We are dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service as well as more product enhancements and platform expansion to help reduce the burden cancer places on your patients and their loved ones. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership through our journey to market leadership in wire-free localization with SCOUT.

Merit Medical to Exhibit at Virtual ASBrS 2021: Products and Symposia You Won’t Want to Miss

ASBrS Virtual 2021Merit Medical is proud to support the American Society of Breast Surgeons (ASBrS) 22nd Annual Meeting on April 29–May 2, 2021.

We look forward to connecting with you virtually and encourage you to visit the Merit virtual booth to learn of our latest product platform enhancements and clinical updates.

We are also sponsoring a very compelling industry symposium and two learning sessions, all featuring key opinion leaders and experts in breast cancer care. Mark your calendars to include these products and symposia you won’t want to miss:

PRODUCTS

As a provider of world-class solutions for the diagnosis, localization, and treatment of cancer, Merit Oncology consistently invests in improving technologies and innovating new platforms to meet physicians’ needs.

SCOUT® RADAR LOCALIZATION

SCOUT Radar Localization - Preferred Solution to Treat More Patients - Merit OncologyThe easy-to-use SCOUT Radar Breast Localization System is intended for both breast surgical localization, before or after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and to mark a biopsy site. Its reflector has a clinically insignificant MRI artifact, so there is no restriction on the imaging modalities that can be used effectively throughout treatment. SCOUT provides accurate detection and precise localization and has been shown to improve workflow, significantly reducing OR delays.

Explore clinical data and hear why physicians choose SCOUT.

SAVI® BRACHY

SAVI Brachy - APBI BrachytherapySAVI Brachy offers a strut-based approach to tissue-sparing dosimetry and is designed to maximize ease of use during placement while providing unparalleled dose customization. Three-fraction treatment protocol with SAVI allows for effective APBI treatment to be completed in as little as 2 days,1 significantly reducing the treatment burden for patients.

Explore clinical data and COVID-specific materials.

ACHIEVE® PROGRAMMABLE AUTOMATIC BIOPSY SYSTEM

Achieve Automatic Biopsy DeviceDesigned for calcified or fibrous lesions, the lightweight, automatic Achieve device is spring-loaded for fast, accurate penetration. Its delayed-firing option allows for visualization of needle placement within a lesion before capturing sample tissue. The Achieve gives precise control and quality sampling capability needed, is built to minimize damage to surrounding tissue, and can conveniently be operated with one hand—making it ideal for ultrasound-guided biopsy.

Explore the Achieve device.

SYMPOSIA

ASBrS Breakfast Symposium

The Preferred Localization Solution to Treat More Patients: SCOUT

Friday, April 30, 2021
9:00 am – 10:00 am EDT

Description:

SCOUT Radar Localization exclusively spans the care continuum from time of biopsy placement and targeted axillary dissection to excellent surgical outcomes. Discover the state-of-the art localization techniques practiced by key opinion leaders from Cleveland Clinic, Columbia University, University of Colorado, Intermountain Healthcare, and the Advocate System.

Learning Sessions

The Pathway to Market Leadership and the Future of Radar Localization

Includes physician education recording with Michelle Carpenter, MD

Friday, April 30, 2021
2:45 pm – 3:15 pm EDT

Description:
At the time of the 2021 ASBrS meeting, SCOUT will have achieved an important milestone—200K procedures, far exceeding any other wire-free technology.

Join David Gilstrap, Director of Global Product Management at Merit, to learn more about what differentiates radar localization and what is on the horizon for platform enhancements. His presentation will include a physician education recording with Michele Carpenter, MD.

Start-to-Finish APBI in 2 Days: Three-Fraction Treatment with SAVI

Saturday, May 1, 2021
9:15 am – 9:4 5am EDT

Description:
Interested in learning about three-fraction APBI with SAVI? Listen to UC San Diego’s Cate Yashar, MD, and Dan Scanderbeg, PhD, as they discuss outcomes of the TRIUMPH-T Trial, provide an assessment on patient satisfaction, and discuss adopting a three-fraction TRIUMPH-T protocol in your practice.

At Merit, our goal is to lessen the burden cancer places on patients and their loved ones by offering products and services that make this possible. We look forward to seeing you at virtual ASBrS 2021!

Learn more about ASBrS 2021.

*Before using any of the Merit products mentioned above, refer to Instructions for Use for indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and directions for use.

REFERENCES

  1. Khan AJ et al. 2019. “Three-Fraction Accelerated Partial Breast Irradiation (APBI) Delivered With Brachytherapy Applicators Is Feasible and Safe: First Results From the TRIUMPH-T Trial.” Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 104, no. 1:67– PMID: 30611839.
Understanding Esophageal Cancer

Helping You Understand Esophageal Cancer

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Sharon Huff - SCOUT Radar Localization Patient

“When You Are Informed, You Hold the Power” – Sharon Huff, SCOUT® Patient

Sharon Huff - SCOUT Radar Localization PatientSharon Huff is a retired schoolteacher in Ontario, California, where she and her husband live and enjoy an active lifestyle. Like many women around the world, the pandemic disrupted her routine mammography screening, delaying her appointment by a few months. When Sharon was finally able to have a mammogram, a suspicious lesion was discovered. She underwent a biopsy and learned she would need a lumpectomy to remove an early stage cancerous tumor.

“A close friend and I are going through this breast cancer journey together. She is a few weeks ahead of me in her diagnosis, so I have learned a lot from her experience,” Sharon said. “She had a wire localization and told me, in her words, it was going to freak me out. She had the wire put in very early the morning of her surgery and had to be still, so the wire wouldn’t move. Moving the wire could result in not being able to accurately locate the cancer.”

It came time for Sharon’s surgical consult with Dr. Jonsson at Kaiser Ontario Medical Center, and she was expecting to learn of her surgery date and hear about the wire localization procedure. This weighed heavily on Sharon’s mind. When Dr. Jonsson told her she would be having a wire-free localization, she was pleasantly surprised and relieved.

Although Sharon has an extensive educational background and is an avid reader and researcher, she had never heard of a reflector placement with SCOUT®. She immediately turned to the internet. Sharon read everything she could find about the procedure and watched videos to familiarize herself with what the reflector looked like and how it was placed.

When it was time for her reflector placement with Dr. Nguyen of the radiology department at Kaiser Fontana Medical Center, she was well informed and prepared. “The procedure to implant the reflector was easy and did not take long at all,” Sharon commented. “I was very impressed.”

COVID-19 adds additional stress to any medical procedure. In Sharon’s case, her husband was not allowed to accompany her and instead had to wait in the car. On the day of surgery, she only had to arrive two hours prior to the surgery start time, making her husband’s wait time much shorter than if she would have needed a wire localization on the day of surgery. “Having that little reflector made our day so much smoother and shorter,” Sharon recounted.

Size of a SCOUT Reflector versus a US Dime.

SCOUT Radar Localization - Preferred Solution to Treat More Patients - Merit OncologyThe surgery was a success. Sharon happily reported that her surgeon had removed all the cancer, so her margins were clear, and her lymph nodes were negative. She can now quickly move on to any additional treatments. “I can only imagine that being able to precisely find that little cancer played a big part in my good outcome,” Sharon said.

When asked to share pearls of wisdom for individuals going through the breast cancer journey, Sharon had three: inform yourself, make your own decisions, and advocate for yourself.  “When you are informed, you hold the power,” Sharon said. “And you can feel better about your choices.”

Disclaimer: This information is not intended nor recommended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified physician regarding any medical questions or conditions.

SwiftNINJA Steerable Microcatheter - Merit Medical

SwiftNINJA® Overcomes Challenges of Selective Catheterization

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Arcadia Steerable Technology - Merit Medical

Arcadia™ Steerable Technology Provides Unique Benefits to Vertebral Augmentation Treatment

Vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) are the most common fracture in patients with osteoporosis.1 Although painful and debilitating, VCFs often go untreated. To help care for this patient population, Merit Medical innovated the Arcadia, an intuitive balloon-assisted vertebral augmentation (kyphoplasty) system. Designed to be used with the steerable PowerCURVE® Navigating Osteotome, the Arcadia offers several unique benefits when treating patients with painful VCFs.

Bipedicular Footprint, Unipedicular Approach

Arcadia Steerable Technology - Merit Medical

Steerability allows the Arcadia system to target a specific location within the vertebra using a transpedicular approach through a single skin incision. Once past the pedicle body junction, the ability to articulate the device allows accurate navigation to the biomechanically critical important anterior and middle third of the vertebra, resulting in a bipedicular cement footprint byway of a less invasive unipedicular approach.

Unipedicular access has other clinical advantages as well. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in Pain Physician2 compared the safety and efficacy of unipedicular and bipedicular vertebral augmentation approaches in the treatment of osteoporotic VCFs. Results showed that the unipedicular approach required less procedural time, lower radiation dose, and a reduced cement leakage ratio with similar clinical outcomes in pain relief, decreased disability, and improved short and long-term general health.

Reduced Procedural Radiation Exposure

Reduced Radiation Exposure - Merit Medical

The use of fluoroscopic guidance in the transpedicular treatment of VCFs is necessary for visualization; however, radiation exposure must be limited when possible. The single access unipedicular approach, as provided with the steerable Arcadia, has the potential to reduce radiation exposure.2 Radiation exposure to patients undergoing unilateral vertebral augmentation has been shown to be 50% of the dose received by patients who receive bilateral treatment.2

Safe Transpedicular Access

Compassionate and Safe - Merit Medical

Transpedicular steerable access, as made possible with the Arcadia and the PowerCURVE, is intended to enable safe passage past the pedicle body junction into the vertebral body. This approach offers advantages, including avoidance of the radicular spinal arteries, which are vulnerable when using an extrapedicular approach. This is significant given spinal arteries, such as the artery of Adamkiewicz, usually arise from the level of the ninth intercostal artery to the second lumbar artery.3

Further, Liu et al. reported that extrapedicular vertebral augmentation in the lumbar vertebrae had a risk of injuring the lumbar artery and was not recommended for use in L4 and L5, especially in female patients.4 Given this data and the size of lumbar vertebrae, transpedicular access with the steerable Arcadia and PowerCURVE devices may be an appropriate treatment option for this patient population.

Transpedicular access through the pedicle using steerable devices also reduces the oblique angle required when using rigid straight devices, decreasing the risk of breaching the medial cortex and cement leakage within the spinal canal.5

Enhanced Navigation

Enhanced Navigation - Merit Medical

Compared to curved devices manufactured with a predetermined shape which limits trajectory based solely on access into the vertebral body, steerability allows physicians to change trajectory simply by turning the gray handle of the PowerCURVE and Arcadia after accessing the vertebra.

This provides a targeted single-access ability to cross the vertebral midline, enabling optimal balloon tamp positioning and cavity creation. The steerable osteotome, when used alone, can provide targeted channel creation, simultaneously sparing healthy cancellous bone and maximizing surface area to facilitate cement interdigitation. In addition, targeted cavity creation supports the controlled delivery of high-viscosity cement with optimal cement fill.

Reduced Complications

The sophisticated steerable technology of the Arcadia system enables a unipedicular approach to treatment. Complications associated with vertebral augmentation, in general, include infection, neural damage, and pedicle fracture.6 Passing the spinal canal only once, as seen with a unipedicular approach, may reduce the occurrence of such complications.

The Arcadia Balloon-Assisted Vertebral Augmentation System is a prime example of the new technologies Merit provides physicians, helping them to improve procedural outcomes and better the patient experience.

Indication for Use: The Arcadia steerable and straight balloon catheters are intended to be used for the reduction and fixation of fractures and/or creation of a void in cancellous bone in the spine. This includes use during percutaneous vertebral augmentation. These balloon catheters are to be used with cleared spinal polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement for use during percutaneous vertebral augmentation, such as kyphoplasty.

Explore the Arcadia by visiting its product page or through the Merit Customer Support Center.

References

  1. Pilitsis JG. n.d. “Vertebral Compression Fractures.” https://www.aans.org/en/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Vertebral-Compression-Fractures.
  2. Sun H et al. 2016. “Can Unilateral Kyphoplasty Replace Bilateral Kyphoplasty in Treatment of Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Pain Physician 19, no. 8 (Nov–Dec): 551–563. PMID: 27906934.
  3. Kudo K et al. 2003. “Anterior Spinal Artery and Artery of Adamkiewicz Detected by Using Multi-Detector Row CT.” American Journal of Neuroradiology 24(1): 13–17. PMID: 12533320.
  4. Liu L et al. 2019. “An Anatomical study on lumbar arteries related to the extrapedicular approach applied during lumbar PVP (PKP).” PLoS One 14, no. 3: e0213164. PMID: 30835754.
  5. Chung HJ et al. 2008. “Comparative Study of Balloon Kyphoplasty with Unilateral Versus Bilateral Approach in Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures.” Int Orthop 32, no. 6 (Dec): 817–820. PMID: 17768624.
  6. Tsoumakidou G et al. 2017. “CIRSE Guidelines on Percutaneous Vertebral Augmentation.” Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology 40(3): 331–342. PMID: 28105496.

Lessons from A Specialty Surgery Division at the Pandemic Epicenter

In March 2020, following a national emergency declaration, New York City was an epicenter of COVID-19. At Columbia University Medical Center, one department’s adaptive response “Reporting for Duty: Lessons from A Specialty Surgery Division at the Pandemic Epicenter,” was recently published in the Annals of Surgery.

Read the Full Article

The disruption to normal hospital operations was unprecedented and immediately posed two challenges: managing existing hospitalizations and a massive influx of COVID-19 patients. A third challenge emerged: caring for patients who were scheduled for surgeries that would inevitably be delayed.

The specialty surgery division implemented a rapid response strategy for breast surgical patient management with the SCOUT® Radar Localization System. SCOUT enabled the division to triage patients and prepare for downstream radiology backlogs, effectively managing the myriad of unprecedented challenges that COVID-19 imposed.

Highlights from the Annals of Surgery article include:

  • Postponement of screening mammography enabled radiologists to perform SCOUT localizations to minimize downstream scheduling obstacles for surgical patients.
  • SCOUT reflectors were placed, up to 10 localizations a day to prepare for surgical intervention. This approach allowed for flexibility with an operative schedule that was unpredictable. Localized patients could be added to the surgery schedule immediately if the Surgical and Procedural Scheduling Committee’s approval was obtained. Columbia University Medical Center did not need to default to wire localizations during the height of COVID management.
Read the Full Article

Recognizing Lung Cancer Awareness Month

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, an important time for us at Merit Medical. As a patient-centric healthcare company, it is our goal to not only provide the tools physicians need to treat and improve outcomes for lung cancer patients but also to share knowledge and increase awareness surrounding the disease.

WHAT IS LUNG CANCER?

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs. It is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide.1 Among women in the US, it has surpassed breast cancer, becoming the leading cause of cancer deaths nationally.2

There are different kinds of lung cancer, but the two main types are non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC).3

Main Types of Lung Cancer - Non-Small Cell and Small Cell Lung Cancer - Merit Medical

Learn more about NSCLC, SCLC, and other types of lung tumors here.

WHAT CAUSES LUNG CANCER?

It is unknown what causes every case of lung cancer, but there are known risk factors.

SMOKING4

Smoking - Cause of Cancer - Merit Medical Endoscopy

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, resulting in about 80% of lung cancer deaths. Although smoking is the strongest risk factor, it can also interact with other factors or not be the cause at all.

CAUSES IN NON-SMOKERS1,4

Exposure to Cancer-Causing Chemicals - Causes of Cancer - Merit Medical Endoscopy

Many people who develop lung cancer are smokers or former smokers, whereas others have never smoked at all. Lung cancer in non-smokers can be caused by exposure to different substances, such as radon, secondhand smoke, air pollution, asbestos, diesel exhaust, and other chemicals. People with a family history of lung cancer are also at an increased risk.

A small percentage of people develop lung cancer who have no known risk factors. This may happen with no outside cause or may be due to factors we have not found yet.

Learn more about lung cancer risk factors as well as gene changes that may lead to the disease.

SYMPTOMS OF LUNG CANCER

In the early stages, lung cancer typically does not cause any signs and symptoms. In the advanced stages, common signs and symptoms of lung cancer can include:

  • A new, persistent cough
  • New onset of wheezing
  • Coughing up blood or rust-colored phlegm
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain, especially when breathing deeply, laughing, or coughing
  • Hoarse voice
  • Weight loss without trying
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Fluid in the chest
  • Persistent infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia
  • Cancer spreading to other parts of the body (This can cause other signs and symptoms, such as headache, nausea, pain, etc., depending on which organ is affected.)
Persistent Coughing - Symptoms of Lung Cancer - Merit Medical Endoscopy
Unexplainable Weight Loss - Symptoms of Lung Cancer - Merit Medical Endoscopy
Constant Fatigue - Symptoms of Lung Cancer - Merit Medical Endoscopy

LUNG CANCER PREVENTION

Although lung cancer cannot always be avoided, steps can be taken to reduce your risk1.

Quit Smoking - Avoid Lung Cancer - Merit Medical Endoscopy

Quit Smoking (or Don’t Start)

If you have never smoked, don’t start. If you want to quit, there are many replacement products, support programs, and medications available to help. Talk to your doctor.

Stay Away from Secondhand Smoke

Avoid places where people smoke. If you live with a smoker, encourage him or her to quit and ask that smoking be done outside.

Test Your Home for Radon

IIf you learn that you have high radon levels in your home, it can be corrected. Contact your local department of public health for more information.

Avoid Cancer-Causing Chemicals - Avoiding Lung Cancer - Merit Medical Endoscopy

Avoid Cancer-Causing Chemicals

Always follow precautions in the workplace to avoid toxic chemical exposure. If you work regularly in a hazardous environment, talk with your doctor to see what else you can do to protect yourself.

Live a Healthy Active Lifestyle - Avoiding Lung Cancer - Merit Medical Endoscopy

Live a Healthy Lifestyle

Choose a diet full of fruits and vegetables. Always choose nutritious foods versus taking large doses of vitamins, as some vitamins have been found to increase the risk of lung cancer.6 Include physical activity in your routine. Find a type of exercise you enjoy and try to be active most days of the week.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

When to See a Doctor - Lung Cancer Awareness - Merit Medical Endoscopy

If you notice any signs or symptoms that worry you, make an appointment with your doctor. If you need help quitting, your doctor can create a care plan that may include medication, counseling, support groups, online resources, and replacement products.

Only 16% of lung cancer cases are diagnosed at an early stage, and more than half of people with lung cancer die within one year of diagnosis.2 If you are at an increased risk of lung cancer, talk to your doctor about lung cancer screening options. Early detection can make a difference. The five-year survival rate for lung cancer is 56% for cases detected when the disease is still localized within the lungs.2 However, these rates decrease dramatically to only 5% when tumors have spread to other organs.2

At Merit, our goal is to help people worldwide live their best lives. Learn about the trusted interventional and palliative treatment alternatives we offer.

AEROmini® Tracheobronchial Stent

AEROmini - Stent Group

Elation® Pulmonary Balloon Dilator

References

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2020

Merit Medical Receives Supplier Horizon Award from Premier Inc.

Supplier Horizon Award

Merit Medical is proud to be a 2020 Recipient of the Supplier Horizon Award, presented by Premier Inc., a leading healthcare improvement company that unites an alliance of more than 4,100 U.S. hospitals and health systems and approximately 200,000 other providers and organizations to transform healthcare.

One of only nine suppliers to receive the award this year, Merit was recognized for its oncology division’s support of Premier members through exceptional local customer service and engagement, value creation through clinical excellence, and commitment to lower costs.

SCOUT Radar Localization - Preferred Solution to Treat More Patients - Merit Oncology

Merit Oncology’s leading technology is SCOUT® Radar Localization, an advanced wire-free radar localization system designed to improve the precision and predictability of marking tumors, biopsy sites, and lymph nodes prior to neoadjuvant therapy and surgery. SCOUT Radar Localization is the wire-free platform that exclusively spans the care continuum from biopsy to surgery.

Used in more than 770 hospitals, October 2020 marked a milestone for SCOUT, as more than 150,000 women have experienced a wire-free localization.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2020 - Partnering with BreastCancer.org - Merit Medical
BCAM Merit partners with Breastcancer.org

Our Commitment. Our Promise.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2020 - Partnering with BreastCancer.org - Merit Medical

Merit Medical is committed to reducing the burden that cancer places on patients and their loved ones. To further demonstrate this commitment, Merit is partnering with BreastCancer.org, an organization dedicated to educating and empowering people with breast cancer.

Throughout the months of September and October 2020, Merit will donate $1,000 to Breastcancer.org for each SCOUT® console sold worldwide that exceeds monthly goals. Learn more about SCOUT Radar Localization.

Like Merit, BreastCancer.org is committed to the mission of reducing the burden of breast cancer and reaches millions of people each month worldwide, providing much-needed resources and support.

SCOUT Radar Localization - Merit Medical - Tumor Localization
BreastCancer.org - Partnering to provide people education and medical services - Merit Medical

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month and every month, Merit’s promise remains the same—to consistently invest in improving technologies and innovating new platforms that meet patient and physician needs.

Minimizing Patient Contact Interactions During COVID-19 With SAVI Brachy - Merit Medical

Three-Fraction SAVI Brachytherapy: Reducing Patient Interactions During COVID-19

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How SCOUT® Impacted my Breast Cancer Journey

Faith Smith - SCOUT Patient Story - Merit Medical
Faith Smith and her daughter, Ashley
 

As told by Faith Smith

When my biopsy came back positive for breast cancer and I was told I needed a lumpectomy, my daughter was adamant that I seek a second opinion from a breast surgeon who would use SCOUT for localizing my tumor. She explained to me that SCOUT is a more comfortable option because I wouldn’t have a wire sticking out of my breast, and would give my surgeon more accurate localization to remove my tumor.

I always thought that the treatment for breast cancer was basically the same anywhere you went, but after I had a consultation with Lori Gentile, MD at Novant Health (Huntsville, NC) it became very apparent that was not the case.

Dr. Gentile explained exactly what would happen and how they would localize my tumor using SCOUT wire-free technology. It was a very different experience from my first consultation where the localization method would have been a wire. Learning about the wire procedure made me a bit uneasy thinking ‘How would they find my very small tumor during surgery?’, but it was a big relief to know that the SCOUT system would give real-time guidance and Dr. Gentile would know exactly where my tumor was with incredible accuracy.

The placement of the SCOUT Reflector happened several days before my surgery and it was simple and easy. I did not feel the insertion, just the mammography compression.  At first, I didn’t understand why the Reflector was inserted on a different day from surgery, but Dr. Gentile explained that it eliminates any radiology and surgery scheduling issues. I ended up really appreciating having the two procedures on separate days, since being a breast cancer patient and having so many things going on can be overwhelming — I found that breaking it down into smaller tasks helped.  When the day of my surgery arrived I was naturally anxious, but with my Reflector in place my surgery started exactly on time –— no delays.

The results of my surgery are amazing! Since I had a SCOUT Reflector, Dr. Gentile had more options in deciding where to make the surgical incision and she was able use an old scar. My breast looks exactly the same. You can’t tell where she made the incision or that I even had surgery. To some people that may seem like a small thing, but to me it is huge. Cancer rocks you to the core. “You have cancer” are such hard words to hear, and anything that keeps your world the same is monumentally important.

When I got the call that both my surgical margins and lymph nodes were clear something washed over me — a sense of calm, relief, and a readiness to face the next part of this journey. I am so thankful that throughout my journey I have felt very cared for and very blessed.

I would want other women going through this to know that breast cancer surgery is not the same everywhere. You need to research your options and look for physicians and facilities offering the newest technologies so that you can find the treatment option that is right for you.

Name: Faith Smith
Age: 60
Facility: Novant Health System, Huntsville, NC
Surgeon: Lori Gentile, MD

Please note: This information is not intended nor recommended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified physician regarding any medical questions or conditions.

Updated Spine Resources for Your Practice

Spine Resource Center - Merit medical

Merit Medical has recently updated its online Spine Resource Center as a way to support you in your spine practice as well as to help provide the best possible outcomes for patients undergoing vertebral augmentation (kyphoplasty), vertebroplasty, and spinal tumor ablation treatments. By inserting your email address, you’ll have access to a wide range of valuable tools and helpful information available for download.

Simplifies Treatment - Resolve ConvertX

Patient Education

Educate patients and increase awareness about interventional spine procedures with both digital and printed resources.

Digital Patient Resources
Use Merit’s digital tools on your practice website and social media as well as to boost your overall patient education efforts. With a licensing agreement, you’ll have access to treatment-related text, illustrations, and videos.

Printed Patient Resources
Order printed patient collateral, such as informational brochures and other patient awareness materials, simply by filling out an order form. The materials will be shipped to you at no cost.

Referring Physician Education

Referring Physician Education

Collaborate with fellow physicians using Merit’s peer-to-peer presentations that address important topics, including patient selection, clinical evidence supporting interventional spine procedures, and more.

Clinical Ideas

Clinical Resources

Throughout your day-to-day, take advantage of Merit’s many clinical resources. Product and procedure visual guides, disease management sheets, and prep and administration instructions are right at your fingertips.

Resources for Physicians

Physician Support

To make your life easier, Merit provides updated coding and reimbursement information. A CMS Physician Fee Schedule look-up tool provides information for more than 10,000 physician services.

Data and Studies

Data & Studies

Browse our list of key therapy studies that include quick links to abstracts and useful data summaries.

Merit Medical is committed to helping you care for your patients by offering the most up-to-date information available on interventional spine treatments. Visit the Merit Spine Resource Center today and explore the many tools you can use to enhance your practice.

Recap of SIR 2019

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