OrthoHelix Surgical Designs adds $2 million for expansion
Summary
The St. Jude Medical SJ4 connector reduces the number of connections between the device and the wires (defibrillation leads) that send electrical impulses to the heart, which is intended to enable a streamlined implant procedure. The St. Jude Medical SJ4 connector reduces the number of connections between the device and the wires (defibrillation leads) that send electrical impulses to the heart, which is intended to enable a streamlined implant procedure. "With only a single connection and one set screw, the SJ4 connector has the potential to improve the implant procedure, may reduce the lead volume under the ICD in the chest wall and may improve patient comfort," says Cleveland Clinics Bruce Wilkoff, M.D., who is on the companys physician lead review board and has sponsored research with St. Jude Medical, Inc. Wilkoff implanted the first Current Plus ICD with SJ4 connector on June 4, 2009. "Simplifying the lead connection process is one of many design features we have incorporated as part of our commitment to making procedures safer for patients and more efficient for physicians, from implant through follow-up," says Eric S. Fain, M.D., president of the St. Jude Medical Cardiac Rhythm Management Division. Headquartered in St. Paul, Minn., St. Jude Medical employs approximately 14,000 people worldwide and has four major focus areas that include: cardiac rhythm management, atrial fibrillation, cardiovascular and neuromodulation.