MISONIX Announces Encouraging Results for Sonoblate 200 Test On Prostate Cancer
From biz.yahoo.com
Monday March 20, 7:00 am Eastern Time
Company Press Release
MISONIX Announces Encouraging Results for Sonoblate 200 Test On Prostate Cancer
FARMINGDALE, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 20, 2000--MISONIX, INC.
(NASDAQ: MSON - news) today announced that early-stage tests conducted in
Japan indicate the Sonoblate 200(TM) is effective in the treatment of localized
prostate cancer. A study of the High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
device, developed by Focus Surgery, Inc. (www.focus-surgery.com), which
appeared in the Volume 15, 2000 issue of The Journal Of Highly Advanced
Medical Technology, states that clinical tests utilizing the Sonoblate 200(TM)
were performed on five individuals who were diagnosed with localized prostate
cancer. The results showed a significant reduction in blood PSA levels
(indications of the presence of cancer) in all cases and in one case, no traces of
cancer were found after biopsy exams. The article concludes that HIFU therapy
be expanded for the treatment of localized prostate cancer because of its many
advantages, including the safety of the procedure for re-treatment on local
recurrences, the minimally-invasive nature of the process with few complications
and the possibility of outpatient or overnight treatment, to name just a few.
Misonix, Inc. owns 20% of Focus Surgery, Inc. and therefore will share in any
benefits to be derived from expanded use of the next generation Sonoblate. In
addition, Misonix has the right to manufacture and develop the next generation
HIFU device as well as the option to market and sell several other HIFU
applications for the treatment of both benign and cancerous tumors of the breast,
liver and kidney.
Until now, HIFU has been used primarily for the treatment of benign prostatic
hyperplasia (BPH), more commonly known as enlarged prostate. Worldwide,
1,500 patients have been successfully treated with previous generations of the
Sonoblate device. The Sonoblate is currently in Phase III PMA clinical trials in
the U.S., scheduled for approval by the end of the year 2000, enabling doctors to
use the Sonoblate as a standard treatment for BPH in the United States. It is
estimated that the U.S. market for the treatment of benign and cancerous prostate
tumors is $4.5 billion and $5 billion, respectively.
Mr. Michael A. McManus, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of Misonix,
commented, ``The publication of these results is very encouraging. Although
more studies are necessary, the successful, non-invasive treatment of prostate
cancer is an important milestone for Focus Surgery and Misonix. Such studies
validate our conviction that HIFU will help significantly reduce the side effects
and the cost of prostate cancer treatment. Indeed, with every published study,
the medical community's attention is further attracted to the benefits of using
Focus Surgery's products for the treatment of both BPH and prostate cancer.'
Misonix, Inc. develops, manufactures, and/or markets medical, scientific, and
industrial ultrasonic and air pollution systems.
Forward Looking Statements: Statements in this news release looking forward in
time are made pursuant to the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking
statements involve risks and uncertainties, including general economic
conditions, delays and risks associated with the performance of contracts,
uncertainties as to the results of research and development, potential
acquisitions, consumer and industry acceptance, litigation and/or court
proceedings as it may pertain to Mentor Corporation and MDA, and regulatory
risks including approval of pending or contemplated 510K filings.
Contact:
Misonix Incorporated
Michael McManus, Jr.
President & CEO
(516) 694-9555
www.misonix.com
or
Investor Relations:
Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates, Inc.
Vice President
Lisa D. Lettieri
(212) 838-3777
www.lhai.com or lisa@lhai.com |
