BIOTRONIK and IMDS Join Forces to Launch Innovative Micro Rx Catheter

February 9, 2024 — BIOTRONIK introduced the Micro Rx catheter, a novel rapid exchange microcatheter developed to easily enhance guidewire support during percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). This cutting-edge device, exclusively distributed by BIOTRONIK, is manufactured by IMDS (Interventional Medical Device Solutions). Micro Rx catheter marks the fourth IMDS product BIOTRONIK has brought to the U.S., creating a compelling portfolio of devices which includes NHancer Rx, TrapIT, and ReCross catheters.  

The Micro Rx catheterfeatures a reinforced distal shaft with a core wire between two layers of braids for optimal push transfer and a tapered tip with the market's smallest tip leading edge¹ for high penetration force. Additionally, it features a thoughtfully engineered Proximal-End-Stop that allows for seamless integration of a guide extension catheter² to gain additional support. The Micro Rx catheter is commercially available today in the United States and in March 2024 in Canada. 

Dr. Ashish Pershad, MD, Director of Interventional Cardiology at Chandler Regional Medical Center and Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, one of the first users of the MicroRx catheter, shared his experience. “It provides good support and has a low profile allowing for great tip control for coronary guidewires in complex lesions. Not having to switch out your OTW catheter after you cross a difficult lesion is a huge convenience in an era where 190 cm wires are the norm in most cath labs.” 

Acknowledging the intricacies involved in navigating through challenging vascular anatomies, such as tortuous vessels and highly stenosed lesions, the Micro Rx catheter is designed to prioritize user-friendly intervention, eliminating the need for trapping. This approach aims to mitigate the risk of vascular trauma during procedures, subsequently reducing the overall duration of patients' exposure to the catheterization lab environment and associated risks. It has the potential to enable non-chronic total occlusion (CTO) operators to successfully treat more complex anatomies.^3,4

“IMDS has invested its expertise and dedication into the development of the Micro Rx catheter, with a specific focus on alleviating challenges in PCI,” said Ryan Walters, President at BIOTRONIK USA. “This has resulted in a state-of-the-art solution, benefiting both physicians and the patients. We are proud to bring this innovation to the U.S. market.” 

For more information: www.biotronik.com