Hemo-Stream Chronic Dialysis Catheter Receives FDA Clearance

Angiotech Pharmaceuticals announced it received FDA clearance to market its Hemo-Stream chronic dialysis catheter.

The Hemo-Stream catheter is the first chronic hemodialysis catheter specifically designed for over-the-wire delivery, according to Angiotech. Its advantages include higher flow rates due to its triple lumen design, reduced potential for air embolism or bleeding, decreased procedural steps and time versus competition and ease of catheter placement, the company said.

In April 2007, Angiotech entered into an agreement in which Rex Medical granted Angiotech an exclusive license to market and distribute the Hemo-Stream catheter worldwide.

It is expected that Hemo-Stream catheters will be available for commercial sale in the U.S. later this year, Angiotech said.