February 2, 2016 — Abbott announced that it has acquired private medical device company Kalila Medical Inc. Kalila Medical is a developer of next-generation access technologies used in cardiac electrophysiology procedures for the treatment of heart rhythm disorders, including atrial fibrillation. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Kalila Medical, headquartered in Campbell, Calif., has developed a novel steerable sheath that helps physicians more easily access and perform catheter-based electrophysiology procedures. The company’s proprietary technology features an innovative design that eliminates whipping from torque buildup experienced with other sheath designs. The sheath also provides optimal navigation stability during cardiac ablation procedures, enabling precise left atrial access and maneuverability, with the potential to decrease procedure time.
"Atrial fibrillation is a serious condition that increases the risk of stroke and causes severe symptoms in many patients, but remains undertreated today because current technologies have limited effectiveness," said Michael Pederson, general manager of Abbott's electrophysiology business. "With this acquisition, Abbott gains a unique technology to expand our portfolio of tools for the treatment of atrial fibrillation and other heart rhythm disorders. We look forward to initiating the launch of this innovative sheath in the United States and Europe in the coming weeks."
In 2014, Abbott acquired Topera, a company developing innovative electrophysiology technologies, which identify and locate rotors – the unique patient-specific sources that sustain serious heart rhythm disorders, including atrial fibrillation. With the ability to visualize individual rotors, physicians can tailor treatment approaches for each patient. Abbott released a new software update providing enhanced rotor visualization, which is designed to improve the efficiency of physiologic rotor mapping, in January 2016.
Kalila received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its steerable introducer sheath in 2014 and received CE Mark in December 2013.
For more information: www.abbottvascular.com
October 30, 2024 
