The Swedish biomaterial company Artimplant has signed an exclusive U.S. distribution agreement with BioMedtrix for its Artelon CCL, a new biodegradable implant for the reconstruction of canine knee ligaments. This is Artimplant’s first entry in the veterinary field. Previously, the product was used for anterior cruciate ligament augmentation in humans. To date, about 30 dogs have received Artelon implants. “The extent of CCL (cranial cruciate ligament) ruptures in the United States has been estimated to be over 300,000 cases annually,” said Christopher Sidebotham, chief executive officer of BioMedtrix. “BioMedtrix expects to enter this market in 2009 based on scientific research and the experience of veterinarian leaders in the industry,” Sidebotham said. “With the U.S. documentation in place, our expected clinical cases in the first year will be 10,000 procedures with an aggressive annual growth towards establishing the Artelon CCL procedure as the standard for CCL repair.” BioMedtrix of Boonton, N.J., will establish clinical sites, train the veterinary community and support the program through prospective studies. <HOME>
