Introduction to the GORE® VIABAHN® VBX Balloon Expandable Endoprosthesis
W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. has announced a significant advancement in vascular medical devices with the introduction of the lower profile GORE® VIABAHN® VBX Balloon Expandable Endoprosthesis. This innovative stent graft, now compatible with a 6 Fr sheath, enhances treatment for patients suffering from complex vascular diseases.
The promising CE mark approval marks a pivotal development in the continuous effort to refine medical solutions. The new design boasts a 1 Fr profile reduction while maintaining the essential characteristics of its predecessor—robust performance and flexibility. This is a reflection of Gore’s commitment to improving patient outcomes and user ease, especially for patients facing complex vascular issues.
Design and Features of the New Stent Graft
The primary innovation in this lower profile device lies in the improvement of the delivery system rather than alterations to the graft design itself. The GORE® VIABAHN® VBX remains the closest option available to clinicians that combines the longest balloon-expandable stent on the market, with a configuration reaching up to 79 mm, and the widest diameter options currently offered.
"We are grateful to Gore for being one of the first to adopt this new lower profile VBX Stent Graft in Europe," stated Prof. Michele Antonello, an esteemed vascular surgeon. He highlighted the device’s ease of use and flexibility, particularly in treating challenging cases with 6 or 7 Fr devices. This aspect alone broadens the applicability of the stent graft across various patient scenarios.
Clinical Impact and Applications
Clinically, the VBX Stent Graft is indicated for various conditions, including:
- - De novo or restenotic lesions in iliac arteries,
- - Challenges at the aortic bifurcation,
- - Visceral artery complications,
- - Aneurysms in the subclavian, iliac and visceral arteries, and
- - Traumatic vessel injuries in the chest, abdominal, and pelvic regions.
Importantly, with its recent designation, this device allows healthcare professionals to potentially experience improved procedural efficiencies while also decreasing complications at access sites. This means a smoother workflow in operating rooms and a faster recovery for patients, who are the ultimate beneficiaries of such advancements.
Proven Outcomes and Ongoing Research
The ongoing research surrounding this stent graft is reassuring, especially considering that recent data published over five years illustrate its long-term efficacy. Participating in the Gore VBX FORWARD Clinical Study enables Dr. Ash Patel, a vascular surgeon in London, to evaluate the VBX Stent Graft's performance in treating complex iliac occlusive disease compared with traditional bare-metal stents. This study underscores the continuing confidence that the medical community places in Gore’s advanced technology.
The lower profile device rollout is planned across the European market in the coming months, emphasizing Gore's dedication to responding to critical patient needs through innovation.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Excellence
As Gore unveils this lower profile VBX Stent Graft, it stands as a testament to the company’s relentless pursuit of innovation and quality in medical devices. With over 500,000 devices already implanted worldwide since their U.S. launch in 2017, the VBX Stent Graft continues to gain traction in medical communities. Gore's maturing technologies, in collaboration with healthcare providers, have led to improved patient care pathways and outcomes, which is the ultimate goal for every innovation in the medical field.
For further inquiries or to learn more about this innovative device, medical professionals and interested stakeholders can visit the Gore Medical website, which details the specifications and applications of the lower profile VBX Stent Graft. By continuously pushing the boundaries of medical device performance, Gore aims to enhance both quality of care and the safety of patients confronting complex vascular diseases.