Innovative Treatment Option for Knee Osteoarthritis
Merit Medical Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: MMSI) has announced a significant advancement in healthcare technology with the approval of Embosphere Microspheres in the European Union for use in genicular artery embolisation (GAE), a promising treatment for knee osteoarthritis (OA). This announcement emphasizes the company’s commitment to providing innovative and effective solutions for knee pain management.
Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is recognized as the most prevalent form of arthritis, impacting approximately 595 million individuals globally. Ageing populations and rising rates of injuries and obesity are contributing significantly to the increasing prevalence of this condition. The knee joint is often the most affected area, leading to challenges in mobility and quality of life for millions around the world.
Embolisation therapy, particularly GAE, is gaining traction as a minimally invasive procedure performed by interventional radiologists. This technique selectively decreases blood flow to the inflamed synovium, which can lead to substantial pain relief, improved joint function, and enhanced mobility in patients suffering from OA. As a result, GAE may even delay or eliminate the need for surgical interventions.
Clinical Insights and Efficacy
In clinical studies, data indicates that over 75% of patients treated with Embosphere for GAE reported significant success, with pain reduction sustained over two years. Patients also experienced a noticeable decrease in the use of pain medication and improvements in their overall quality of life. Comparatively, GAE using Embosphere has shown superior results over traditional corticosteroid injections, achieving better improvements in pain and quality of life at three months post-treatment.
Manufactured from a proprietary blend of a tris-acrylic cross-linked co-polymer, the spherical shape of Embosphere allows for reliable and durable occlusion of targeted blood vessels, which is vital when addressing the small genicular arteries associated with knee pain.
A Proven History of Success
Merit Medical's Embosphere has a long-standing history in embolotherapy, having been successfully utilized for over 25 years and studied in more than 130 pivotal clinical articles. With a proven record of effectively treating conditions such as uterine fibroids and arteriovenous malformations, the Embosphere technology has been beneficial to more than 800,000 patients worldwide, showcasing its versatility and reliability in various applications.
Fred P. Lampropoulos, the Chairman and CEO of Merit Medical, expressed enthusiasm about this expanded indication, stating that it underscores their dedication to innovation and support for minimally invasive therapies that enhance patient care. The growing acceptance of Embosphere in the embolic space highlights its trusted role in contemporary surgical practices, which positively impacts patient outcomes.
About Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
Founded in 1987, Merit Medical Systems, Inc. specializes in developing, manufacturing, and distributing proprietary disposable medical devices that are instrumental in interventional, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures, primarily within cardiology, oncology, endoscopy, and critical care sectors. The company has a substantial global presence with a skilled workforce of over 7,300 dedicated personnel, ensuring support and quality service to client hospitals around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Embosphere Microspheres used for?
Embosphere Microspheres are used in genicular artery embolisation (GAE) to treat knee osteoarthritis, providing relief from pain and improving joint function.
How effective is GAE with Embosphere?
Clinical studies show over 75% of patients experience significant pain relief, with effects lasting over two years, as compared to other treatments like corticosteroid injections.
What is the history of Embosphere technology?
Embosphere has been successfully used in embolotherapy for more than 25 years and has been involved in over 130 clinical studies worldwide.
Who is the CEO of Merit Medical?
Fred P. Lampropoulos serves as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
What conditions does Merit Medical focus on?
Merit Medical specializes in developing devices for a range of interventional procedures including cardiology, radiology, oncology, endoscopy, and critical care.
