Thoratec Initiates HeartMate 3 Trial in Europe

Thoratec has initiated a European study evaluating its HeartMate 3 using less invasive surgical placement through hemi-sternotomy and left thoracotomy.

The clinical trial will consist of 10 implantations at three centers, and will assess outcomes after 30 days of follow up, the Pleasanton, Calif., company says.

HeartMate 3, a centrifugal-flow chronic left ventricular assist system, features technology designed to lower adverse events by boosting hemocaptability, the devicemaker adds.

Thoratec develops therapies for advanced-stage heart failure. — Jason Scott