Skip to content

Integra LifeSciences Announces Launch of New Cortical Stimulator for Mapping Brain Functions in Cancer and Epilepsy Patients


<< Back

Press Release

Sep 21, 2007

Integra LifeSciences Announces Launch of New Cortical Stimulator for Mapping Brain Functions in Cancer and Epilepsy Patients

PLAINSBORO, N.J., Sep 21, 2007 (PrimeNewswire via COMTEX News Network) --

Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation (Nasdaq:IART) announced the release of the OCS2 Ojemann Cortical Stimulator at this week's annual meeting of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons in San Diego, CA. The OCS2 Ojemann Cortical Stimulator has an FDA clearance in the United States and a CE Mark Certification in the European Union.

Originally developed in collaboration with Dr. George Ojemann at the University of Washington, the new device contains updated electronics and an improved design for usability. The Ojemann Cortical Stimulator is the industry standard for cortical stimulation procedures that identify and map eloquent tissue during brain surgery. It is a compact, battery-powered unit, which supplies up to 20 milliamps constant current, and has easy to use controls for treatment in awake and anesthetized patients.

The neurosurgeon's primary goal, for patients with brain cancer and epilepsy, is to completely remove abnormal tissue while sparing normal areas. During surgery, the neurosurgeon places the OCS probe onto the brain's cortex in all areas surrounding tissue considered for resection. Responses to direct cortical stimulation reveal the functional areas, either by evoking an observed motor response in an anesthetized patient, or for an awake patient, triggering sensations or causing an interruption in the patient's speech. These responses help the neurosurgeon determine the boundaries between abnormal and normal areas, and facilitate removal of the cancer or epileptic region.

"We are excited to bring this updated technology to the U.S. and international markets. The Ojemann Cortical Stimulator allows surgeons to accurately identify eloquent tissue and reduce language and motor defects while performing resections," said Jason D. Ellnor, director of marketing for Integra's stereotactic products.

There are approximately 200,000 patients diagnosed with brain cancer each year in the United States. Epilepsy is estimated to affect an additional 3 million people in the United States, making it one of the most common neurological diseases.

The Integra NeuroSciences direct sales organization will sell the OCS2 Ojemann Cortical Stimulator in the US and internationally. Integra NeuroSciences is a leading provider of implants, devices, instruments and systems used in neurosurgery, neuromonitoring, neuro-trauma, and related critical care. The Integra NeuroSciences' direct selling effort in the United States and Europe involves more than 200 professionals. In all other markets, Integra NeuroSciences products are sold through a network of distributors.

Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation, a world leader in regenerative medicine, is dedicated to improving the quality of life for patients through the development, manufacturing, and marketing of cost-effective surgical implants and medical instruments. Integra's products, used primarily in neurosurgery, extremity reconstruction, orthopedics and general surgery, are used to treat millions of patients every year. The company's headquarters are in Plainsboro, New Jersey, and it has research and manufacturing facilities throughout the world. For more information visit www.Integra-LS.com.

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 future use of OCS2 Ojemann Cortical Stimulator. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from predicted or expected results. Among other things, the willingness of physicians to use this product may affect the prospects for its use in clinical procedures. In addition, the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors, identified under the Risk Factors included in Item lA of Integra's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006, and information contained in subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, could affect actual results.

IART-P

This news release was distributed by PrimeNewswire, www.primenewswire.com

SOURCE: Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corp.

Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation
         John B. Henneman, III, Executive Vice President, Chief
           Administrative Officer, Acting Chief Financial Officer
          (609) 936-2481
          jhenneman@Integra-LS.com
         Gianna Sabella, Public Relations Manager
          (609) 936-2389
          gsabella@integra-LS.com

(C) Copyright 2007 PrimeNewswire, Inc. All rights reserved.

News Provided by COMTEX