Sydney, June 15, 2006 (ABN Newswire) - With reference to the clinical trial currently underway for HeartWare's (ASX: HTW) HVAD left ventricular assist device, Mr McConchie commented:
"The first two patients to have been implanted with the HVAD continue to recover extremely well. Both are now at home, having been released from the Vienna General Hospital where the procedures were conducted.
We now have some 140 days of cumulative clinical implant experience with the device. We have seen no evidence whatsoever of pump related haemolysis or thrombosis and are extremely encouraged by the performance of the device in these first two cases. We look forward to commencing our Australian implant program at the Royal Perth Hospital in coming weeks."
Mr McConchie's presentation included news footage recently screened on Austrian National Television. The video includes brief interviews with the first patient to be implanted with the HVAD and with Dr Georg Wieselthaler, who conducted the procedure.
The news broadcast can be accessed via the HeartWare website at
HeartWare is developing a family of proprietary circulatory assist devices to treat patients with congestive heart failure. HeartWare's lead device, the HVAD, commenced human clinical trials in March 2006. First sales are anticipated in late 2007. With a volume of 45cc, the HVAD is the smallest "3rd generation" pump and the only full output device implantable within the pericardial space.
In parallel with the HVAD clinical development, HeartWare is pursuing its MVAD program, aimed at developing a family of miniaturized cardiac assist devices, implantable by minimally invasive surgical techniques. The current MVAD prototype, approximately one tenth the volume of the HVAD, commenced animal studies in August 2005.
HeartWare listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX: HTW) on 31 January 2005 after successfully raising A$32.4 million (US$24.95 million). HeartWare's Head Office is located in Sydney, Australia.
Contact
Howard Leibman Director Corporate Development HeartWare Limited TEL: +61 2 9552 4499 / 0404 054 857
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