More forward momentum..............
Kasten Chase Applied Research Ltd -
Kasten provides wireless comm devices to WorldHeart
Kasten Chase Applied Research Ltd KCA
Shares issued 39,084,687 2000-02-28 close $6.75
Tuesday Feb 29 2000
Mr. Paul Hyde reports
Kasten Chase has received its second order to supply WorldHeart Corp. with wireless communications devices for the continuing trials of WorldHeart's ventricular assist device (VAD), a system which is designed to assist the normal operation of a patient's own heart.
The VAD, known as HeartSaverVAD, is fully implanted in the chest and powered through a highly innovative transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) technology. The TET technology enables the implanted device to be monitored and controlled externally by way of a small controller located on the belt of the recipient, without the need for wires or other direct connections through the skin. The external controller is wirelessly connected to a clinical user interface to monitor and control the HeartSaverVAD. The wireless data transfer capabilities of the Kasten Chase product will permit heart and device monitoring and allow override control from remote locations using fully integrated data communications capabilities.
"We have been working with Kasten Chase for some time to integrate their wireless technology into HeartSaverVAD and are encouraged by the significant progress we have made," said Bob Corson, executive vice-president of operations at WorldHeart. "The freedom and self-sufficiency that wireless access provides is a very important part of making this medical solution as patient-friendly as possible."
WorldHeart estimates manufacturing will produce 12,500 VAD units by the year 2004. Current schedules call for human trials to begin in the fourth quarter 2000, with approved product availability in 2001.
"WorldHeart's application takes advantage of the unique strengths and universal attributes of our wireless technology," said Paul Hyde, president and chief executive officer of Kasten Chase. "The data security aspects and use of the Internet to remotely access the HeartSaverVAD make this a particularly interesting and clearly advanced wireless application. It is yet another example of the application of Kasten Chase wireless technology, in this case providing secure communications in an exciting new area of biotechnology."
(c) Copyright 2000 Canjex Publishing Ltd. canada-stockwatch.com |
