Boston Scientific Corp. announces the first implants of a Teligen implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) in China. The implants were performed by Farong Shen, M.D., in Zhejiang Hospital, Hangzhou and Wei Hua, M.D., in Fuwai Hospital, Beijing. The Teligen family of ICDs, designed to treat sudden cardiac death, are the smallest and thinnest high-energy devices available in China. They offer extended battery longevity over previous Boston Scientific ICDs currently approved in China, as well as improved programming technology to offer patients enhanced clinical options. The Teligen family of devices was approved by the State Food and Drug Administration (SFDA) of the People's Republic of China in November 2011.
"These new ICDs feature significant advances and will be a welcome technology for Chinese patients requiring implantable defibrillators," said Shu Zhang, M.D., chairman of the Chinese Society of Pacing and Electrophysiology.
"Boston Scientific is committed to providing innovative products and therapies to Chinese physicians and their patients," said Joe Fitzgerald, senior vice president and president of the Cardiac Rhythm Management group at Boston Scientific. "We believe [this] first implant of our advanced ICDs, combined with our recent launch of the Promus Element Plus Coronary Stent System in China, positions Boston Scientific for future growth in this important market."
The company estimates annual market growth exceeding 15 percent over the next five years. In July 2011, Boston Scientific announced a five-year, $150 million investment in China to expand its commercial presence and support the establishment of a local, wholly owned manufacturing facility focused on serving Chinese market needs and developing a world-class training center for Chinese healthcare providers.