Oct 10, 2001
Guidant Announces Worldwide Launch of New Product for Treating Peripheral Vascular Disease

Indianapolis, Ind. and Menlo Park, Calif. - Guidant Corporation (NYSE and PCX: GDT) today announced the global launch of its second-generation VIATRAC(tm) 14 PLUS Peripheral Dilatation Catheter for treating peripheral vascular disease. An estimated 8 million patients in the United States alone suffer from peripheral vascular disease, which is a condition characterized by blockages in vessels in the kidneys, neck, abdomen and limbs.

"Peripheral vascular disease is a serious condition that affects a significant number of patients," said Beverly Huss, president, Endovascular Solutions, Guidant Corporation. "Guidant is committed to developing less invasive technology for treating peripheral vascular disease, and developed the VIATRAC 14 PLUS to provide physicians with an easy to use, low-profile angioplasty catheter for performing peripheral interventions."

Early stages of peripheral disease affecting the kidneys may have especially dangerous health implications, as patients may experience high blood pressure and kidney dysfunction. These problems are caused by a condition called a stenosis, which is the narrowing of blood vessels in the kidneys that restricts normal blood flow.

The product introduction follows U.S. Food and Drug Administration clearance and CE Mark approval of Guidant's VIATRAC 14 PLUS Peripheral Dilatation Catheter, which is intended to treat blockages in peripheral arteries through a non-surgical angioplasty procedure. The treating physician inserts the catheter through a small incision and guides the catheter to the peripheral blockage. The physician then inflates the balloon at the site of the blockage, which presses against the artery wall and restores blood flow through the previously blocked area.

Guidant Corporation pioneers lifesaving technology, giving an opportunity for better life today to 7 million cardiac and vascular patients worldwide. The company, driven by a strong entrepreneurial culture of 10,000 employees, develops, manufactures and markets a broad array of products and services that enable less invasive care for some of life's most threatening medical conditions.