Medtronic has announced that it has acquired the assets of Aptus Endosystems, a privately held medical device company focused on developing advanced technology for endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and thoracic endovascular aneurysm repair (TEVAR). Additional terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Aptus Endosystems' Heli-FX and Heli-FX Thoracic EndoAnchor systems feature an endovascular deployed anchor designed to attach a variety of aortic endografts to the native vessel wall. This off-the-shelf, customized solution minimizes the need for complicated procedures for the select subset of patients who would benefit from supplementary fixation. This may include patients with challenging anatomies, risk factors for a secondary intervention, existing seal complications, as well as in situations where a physician may intraoperatively determine the need for additional security.

"We are excited to add this unique complementary, anchor technology to our aortic portfolio. The Heli-FX and Heli-FX Thoracic EndoAnchor systems strongly align with our strategy to invest in treatments that address complex aortic disease with a vision to treat disease of the entire aorta," said Mr Daveen Chopra, vice-president and general manager of the Aortic business, within the Cardiac and Vascular Group at Medtronic.

The Heli-FX and Heli-FX Thoracic EndoAnchor systems bear the CE Mark for distribution in the European Union and are cleared by the FDA for distribution in the US. The Heli-FX and Heli-FX Thoracic EndoAnchor systems can be used with a wide variety of commercially available stent grafts, including Medtronic's Endurant and Valiant stent graft systems.

As part of the acquisition, Medtronic will also distribute the TourGuide(TM) Steerable Sheath, a device with adjustable tip that enables quick access and delivery of peripheral vascular products to the most challenging anatomy, in the US and Europe.

"Medtronic's acquisition of the Aptus technology is validation of our mission to bring a durable solution to patients with challenging anatomies," said Mr James Reinstein, president and CEO of Aptus Endosystems. He added, "Having the Heli-FX available in the broad distribution channels of the market leader, will be very good for our EVAR physicians and their patients."

The company will report the Aptus business as part of its Aortic and Peripheral Vascular division within the Cardiac and Vascular Group.