Boston Scientific Launches AXIOS Stent And Delivery System From Xlumena Acquisition
Boston Scientific announced the launch of an endoscopic system indicated for the minimally invasive treatment of complications from pancreatitis. The AXIOS Stent and Electrocautery Enhanced Delivery System (AXIOS) were developed by Xlumena, a startup acquired by Boston Scientific last year to expand its portfolio of endoscopic offerings.
Pancreatitis occurs when digestive fluids become activated and begin breaking down tissues while trapped inside the pancreas. Pockets of fluid trapped within pancreatic cavities, called pancreatic pseudocysts, can be resolved surgically, but minimally invasive endoscopic procedures that drain the fluid directly into the digestive tract are gaining popularity, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Benefits of endoscopic approaches include lower risk profiles and better cost efficiency.
The AXIOS system, cleared for endoscopic treatments of both pancreatic pseudocysts and some cases of walled-off pancreatic necrosis, uses an ultrasound guidance system and electrocautery catheter to gain access to the pancreatic fluid collection (PFC). Once in position, the system places a fully covered and self-expanding stent, which allows fluid to drain into the gastrointestinal tract, according to a Boston Scientific press release.
In a clinical trial testing safety and efficacy of the stent, the system successfully resolved PFCs 93 percent of the time, and researchers remarked that the stent’s single-step deployment and minimal migration offered advantages over other stents.
FDA clearance of the AXIOS system was an important component of Boston Scientific’s acquisition of Xlumena last year, in a deal that stipulated an additional $12.5 million (for a total of $75 million) for the company if the system was approved for the U.S. market.
“Our combined technologies enable physicians to diagnose and treat diseases of the pancreatico-biliary system using less invasive procedures,” said David Pierce, Boston Scientific senior VP, when the deal was signed. “We are pleased to be able to accelerate the global reach of the AXIOS stent and to be at the forefront of this fast growing segment.”
Kenneth Binmoeller, one of the system’s inventors, explained that the all-in-one device was a “simpler and faster treatment option” for patients.
Todd Baron, director of advanced therapeutic endoscopy at the University of North Carolina Hospital, commented that the system had greatly improved procedural efficiency and reduced the patient’s exposure to X-ray.
“In addition, we believe that the large diameter stent design is helping to reduce the cost of care by decreasing hospital length of stay and the number of interventions needed to manage this complex disease,” Baron added.
Image credit: Boston Scientific