Jul 26, 2004
Guidant Announces U.S. Launch of Next-Generation Coronary Dilatation Catheter

New Rapid-Exchange Dilatation Catheter Provides Foundation for Successful Interventional Procedures

Indianapolis, Ind. and Santa Clara, Calif. - Guidant Corporation (NYSE: GDT) today announced the U.S. launch of the newest in the company''s line of coronary dilatation catheters, the VOYAGER(tm) rapid-exchange (RX) Coronary Dilatation Catheter, following receipt of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval.

Coronary dilatation catheters are used both in traditional angioplasty procedures and in stent implantation procedures. By inflating a tiny balloon that has been delivered through a small incision in the leg, the plaque is compressed, widening the artery and improving blood flow.

"Guidant''s demonstrated excellence in angioplasty technology has helped earn the loyalty of our clinician customers," said Dana G. Mead, Jr., president, Guidant Vascular Intervention. "The technological innovations in our next-generation VOYAGER Coronary Dilatation Catheters continue this tradition of excellence and provide the foundation for successful interventional procedures for the treatment of coronary artery disease."

"The VOYAGER Coronary Dilatation Catheter will provide a dependable option for treating coronary artery disease in a variety of settings. The system combines several exciting new technologies to enhance overall performance," said John Lassetter, M.D., of McKay-Dee Hospital Center in Ogden, Utah. "The low-profile tapered tip contributes to overall system deliverability, which is important for successful treatment of patients with significant coronary artery disease."

Guidant Corporation pioneers lifesaving technology, giving an opportunity for better life today to millions of cardiac and vascular patients worldwide. The company, driven by a strong entrepreneurial culture of 12,000 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. For more information visit www.guidant.com.