Orchestra BioMed Expands BACKBEAT Study Protocol for Patients

Orchestra BioMed Enhances BACKBEAT Study Protocol
New Hope, Pennsylvania — Orchestra BioMed Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: OBIO) has announced a significant update to its BACKBEAT global pivotal study protocol. This decision comes after approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is expected to greatly expand the pool of eligible patients for a promising treatment targeting uncontrolled hypertension in those who require a pacemaker.
Understanding the BACKBEAT Study
The BACKBEAT study focuses on evaluating AVIM therapy, which seeks to address high blood pressure issues in pacemaker-indicated patients. Thanks to this recent update, the eligibility criteria are now much broader, potentially increasing the number of qualifying patients by over 24 times when compared to the original study protocol.
Expanded Eligibility Criteria
Key updates to the BACKBEAT study include the eligibility of:
- Patients who have received or are scheduled to receive either a Medtronic Astra or Azure dual-chamber pacemaker.
- Those patients who are either undergoing their first pacemaker implantation or are replacing an existing device.
- Individuals classified as New York Heart Association (NYHA) class I or II with symptomatic heart failure.
Implications for Hypertension Management
The implications of these eligibility updates are profound. Orchestra BioMed envisions enrollment completion by mid-2026, aligning the study's patient demographic more closely with the FDA's Breakthrough Device Designation elements for AVIM therapy. This patient demographic likely consists of millions in the U.S. grappling with high blood pressure and seeking better management options.
Expert Insights on AVIM Therapy
David Hochman, Chairman and CEO of Orchestra BioMed, expressed optimism regarding the updates, stating that they will not only significantly increase the number of eligible patients but also affirm the study's relevance in addressing critical healthcare needs. He emphasized that a large segment of the population seeks innovative avenues to manage elevated blood pressure levels and reduce the risks associated with heart attacks and strokes.
Significance of the AVIM Therapy
AVIM therapy stands out from traditional antihypertensive treatments. Designed with older patients in mind—particularly those with significant cardiovascular risks—this therapy holds transformative potential. It integrates seamlessly with standard dual-chamber pacemakers, effectively enabling blood pressure management over the device’s typical lifecycle of 10 to 12 years.
Anticipating Real-World Outcomes
Andrea Russo, M.D., a leading cardiologist and Co-Principal Investigator of the BACKBEAT study, noted that the expanded criteria will align the study's participant profile with the real-world needs of older patients facing hypertension challenges. This approach ensures that the BACKBEAT study is positioned well to yield valuable insights and outcomes.
About Orchestra BioMed and Its Innovations
As a pioneering entity in medical device innovation, Orchestra BioMed collaborates with various partners to expedite the delivery of impactful technologies to patients. Among its flagship products are AVIM therapy, aimed at controlling hypertension, and Virtue SAB for treating atherosclerotic artery disease—both of which tackle some of the leading causes of mortality globally.
The company has gained notable attention, receiving multiple Breakthrough Device Designations from the FDA, underscoring the promise of its developments in alleviating unmet medical needs in cardiovascular healthcare. The commitment to forming strategic partnerships with leading medical device companies also emphasizes its dedication to advancing public health solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BACKBEAT study?
The BACKBEAT study is a pivotal clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of AVIM therapy in patients with uncontrolled hypertension indicated for pacemaker use.
How has the patient eligibility changed?
The updated protocol allows a broader range of patients, including those with specific types of Medtronic pacemakers, leading to a significant increase in the eligible patient pool.
What is AVIM therapy?
AVIM therapy is an investigational treatment designed to reduce blood pressure in patients who also require a pacemaker, addressing specific needs of high-risk patients.
What potential benefits does the study aim to address?
The BACKBEAT study aims to provide effective options for managing high systolic blood pressure, which can lead to severe cardiovascular events if left unchecked.
What future developments can be expected from Orchestra BioMed?
Orchestra BioMed plans to continue its development of AVIM therapy and other innovative treatments, focusing on partnerships to advance their technologies in the medical field.
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