Aortech partners with RUA Medical to improve product performance

Aortech International on Thursday signed an agreement with RUA Medical for the development and supply of its soft tissue pericardial patch and large bore vascular graft.

The AIM-traded biomaterials and medical device firm said the agreement with RUA Medical, which is the trading name of Culzean Medical Devices, has been entered into following its identification of possible product improvement through the incorporation of biostable medical grade polymer Elast-Eon.

The polymer, developed by Aortech, has biostability similar to that of silicone and is currently manufactured on the company’s behalf by Biomerics LLC in Utah.

Bill Brown, chairman of AorTech, said: "RUA Medical is the ideal partner for this project and that its unique combination of R&D, project management, regulatory and manufacturing expertise should help us deliver the soft tissue pericardial patches and large bore grafts to market in a highly efficient manner."

The company said the partnership with implantable fabric specialist RUA Medical will seek to exploit immediate opportunities to improve the performance and functionality of products.

Caroline Stretton, chief executive of RUA Medical, said: "The team at RUA Medical is delighted to be partnering with AorTech on the development and supply of their transformational devices. Superior safety and performance, in conjunction with secure supply, will afford spectacular improvements to the quality of life of end users."

As of 0834 BST, Aortech International’s shares were up 7.45% at 50.50p.