Boston Sci Debuts Long-Lasting ICDs

Boston Scientific has announced the U.S. launch of what it calls the "world's longest lasting ICDs."

Brian Buntz

The devices, which last up to twice as competing implantable cardioverter defibrillators, use the company's EnduraLife battery technology. Known as the Extended Longevity (EL) line, the products have an estimated lifespan of 12 years and have outperformed competing products in a number of clinical trials.

The company also has pointed out the small size of the ICD line, which is includes products known as the Dynagen EL (pictured) and Inogen EL. Specifically, Boston Scientific says the batteries can be packaged in a device up to 11% smaller and 24% thinner than competing devices. The Dynagen EL, for instance has a volume of 29.5 cc and thickness of 9.9 mm.

In addition, the company is touting the advantage of the long-lasting ICDs to help reduce incidences of infection and complications, playing a role in lowering healthcare costs. "By providing a device with greater battery capacity, physicians are now able to offer patients a longer lasting device and increased peace of mind, while administrators and payors have new options to more effectively manage healthcare costs and minimize unexpected complications," said Joe Fitzgerald, the company's executive vice president and president, rhythm management.

Like Medtronic, which has recently said that its own recently introduced ICD devices cut down on unnecessary shocks, the new Boston Scientific products include the firm's AcuShock technology, which is designed to accomplish that objective using a variety of the firm's rhythm discriminators that support customization of Rhythm ID algorithm, antitachycardia pacing therapy, and advanced sensing and filtering.

Last year, Boston Scientific debuted two ICDs that were notable for their small size: the Dynagen and Inogen Mini, which are approximately 20% smaller in volume and 24% thinner than competing products.

Brian Buntz is the editor-in-chief of MPMN and Qmed. Follow him on Twitter at @brian_buntz.

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