Wednesday, 27 Feb, 2008

Smiths Medical, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, announced today that it will distribute Life-Tech’s ContiStim® Stimulating Catheter, an addition to their current line of peripheral nerve block products.

Stimulating catheters have the ability to conduct current and stimulate motor nerves when used in conjunction with a nerve stimulator. Clinicians who prefer a stimulating catheter believe they obtain an increased nerve block success rate due to better catheter placement, resulting in improved patient outcomes and pain relief.

Stimulating catheters have become a valuable tool in continuous peripheral nerve blocks commonly performed in orthopedic procedures to the shoulder and knee. Optimizing placement of nerve catheters can lead to improved clinical outcomes, such as reductions in patients’ pain scores and opioid consumption.

ContiStim® Stimulating Catheters feature an atraumatic ball tip that protects against tissue damage while providing a uniform 360 degree stimulus pattern, and they’re the only catheters that allow stimulation during placement as well as hours or days after the initial placement. The catheter’s unique patented Stingray™ catheter connector has an integrated stimulus wire, an EzTwist closure that “clicks” to provide positive indication of secure catheter connection, and a flat profile that enhances patient comfort and freedom of movement.

The new stimulating catheters directly complement Smiths Medical’s existing line of peripheral nerve block products, including insulated needles and nerve block trays, and their commitment of customer choice without compromise. Smiths Medical continues to enhance its position as a leader in the peripheral nerve block market by offering the broadest line of standard trays, the ability to custom configure nerve block trays, and by providing needle protection.

Smiths Medical
Smiths Medical is a supplier of specialist medical devices to global markets. Smiths Medical comprises three product groupings: Safety Devices, Vital Care and Medication Delivery. Smiths Medical customers include hospitals and other healthcare providers worldwide. Smiths Medical employs nearly 7,500 people. For further information visit www.smiths-medical.com

Smiths Group
Smiths is a global technology company listed on the London Stock Exchange. A world leader in the practical application of advanced technologies, Smiths Group delivers products and services for the threat & contraband detection, medical devices, energy and communications markets worldwide. Our products and services make the world safer, healthier and more productive. Smiths Group employs more than 20,000 people in over 50 countries. For more information visit www.smiths.com

Media Contact: Terri Servais
Phone: (651) 628-7248
E-mail: terri.servais@smiths-medical.com