Novel Balloon Dilators Open Pulmonary Strictures

A range of pulmonary balloons and catheters provide precise endoscopic dilatation of strictures of the trachea or bronchi.

The Endotek Elation balloon dilators are designed to deliver a controlled, three stage dilation procedure followed by a rapid and complete deflation in as little as six seconds, which expedites prompt and easy withdrawal of the balloon from the endoscope. Features include a tapered, atraumatic tip, accurate sizing at three specific pressures, high clarity materials that provide optimal visualization without cone distortion, a low re-insertion force that allows for multiple passes through the working channel of the endoscope, and a simple securement clip to allow for easy containment of the catheter when not in use.

Other advantages include radiopaque marker bands positioned at the balloon shoulders for precise dilation location, and one centimeter printed marker bands on the catheter to provide a means by which to measure the length of the stricture. The Endotek Elation balloon is designed to work with the Endotek BIG60 Inflation Device. Both Endotek Elation and BIG60 are products of Merit Medical Systems (South Jordan, UT, USA), and have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“We believe the addition of this product line, along with Merit’s market-leading pulmonary stents, will be helpful in the efficiency of our sales force and convenience for our customers,” said Fred P. Lampropoulos, chairman and CEO of Merit Medical Systems.

Tracheobronchial obstructions cause dyspnea, stridor, and obstructive pneumonia, and can occasionally be life-threatening due to suffocation. Guided balloon dilation is an accepted initial therapy for patients with benign bronchial strictures, primarily because balloon dilation is associated with lower morbidity and mortality rates than corrective surgery. The balloon dilates the stenotic trachea or bronchus by stretching and expanding the bronchial wall, making it appropriate for the treatment of cicatric annular strictures.

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