Plainsboro, New Jersey, May 1, 2003-Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation (Nasdaq: IART) today announced the release of a new and improved Hermetic PlusT external ventricular drainage system (EVD). EVD systems are used to drain cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) from patients who suffer from increased cranial pressure due to trauma or surgery.

The Hermetic Plus product is a panel system, so it does not require the use of an independent mounting system. Panel systems are easier for clinicians to use in situations where patients have to be moved from one place to another, such as from the intensive care unit to radiology.

The second generation Hermetic Plus EVD system features a unique antimicrobial hydrophobic filter. The new filter maintains its antimicrobial properties and permits drainage of CSF for up to 30 minutes after the filter has become wet, an improvement over systems that do not drain properly if the filter gets wet. In addition, the Hermetic Plus system will continue to drain correctly even after prolonged exposure to highly proteinaceous CSF.

The Hermetic Plus EVD system can be safely used in proximity with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment. As a result, patients can be moved to radiology for MRI imaging without detaching the system.

Other features of the Hermetic Plus EVD system include needleless sampling sites, both at the patient line and burette, which promote ease of use and safety for the nurses who use the system. In addition, the CSF access points carry more prominent labeling, making the system easier to use.

"The new Hermetic Plus EVD makes it much easier to move a monitored patient from one part of the hospital to another, because you don't have to worry about the filter getting wet during transport," said Linda Littlejohns, RN, MSN, CCRN,CNRN Vice President of Clinical Development of Integra NeuroSciences. "This and the other features of the Hermetic Plus EVD system were designed specifically with nurses in mind, and we believe it is the easiest system to use available today."

The Hermetic Plus EVD system is sold through the Integra NeuroSciencesT sales organization. Integra NeuroSciences is a leading provider of implants, devices, instruments, and systems used in neurosurgery, neuromonitoring, neurotrauma, and related critical care. Integra NeuroSciences' direct selling effort in the United States and Europe currently involves more than 100 professionals. In all other markets, Integra NeuroSciences products are sold through a network of distributors.

Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation is a diversified medical technology company that develops, manufactures, and markets medical devices for use in a variety of applications. The primary applications for our products are neuro-trauma and neurosurgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, and soft tissue repair. Integra is a leader in applying the principles of biotechnology to medical devices that improve patients' quality of life. The Company has its corporate headquarters in Plainsboro, New Jersey, with manufacturing and research facilities located throughout the world. The Company has approximately 860 permanent employees.

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the, application, adoption and clinical performance of the Hermetic Plus EVD system. The accuracy of such forward-looking statements is necessarily subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from predicted or expected results. In addition, the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors identified under the heading "Risk Factors" included in the Business section of Integra's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002 and information contained in subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission could affect actual results.

Source: Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation

Contact:
Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation
John B. Henneman, III
Executive Vice President
Chief Administrative Officer
(609) 936-2481
jhenneman@integra-ls.com