Access Scientific out of San Diego, California, having recently received FDA approval for the WAND MicroAccess Safety Introducer, just announced getting the go-ahead to market the device in Europe. The WAND is a cannula implementing the Modified Seldinger Technique for central venous access.
From the press release:
The MicroAccess WAND is a sophisticated new medical device that enables clinicians to more quickly and safely insert a sheath or catheter into a patient’s peripheral vasculature. The device combines all components of the older, Modified Seldinger Technique into a unitary device that provides faster, safer, simpler over-wire vascular access in a relatively bloodless procedure.
The MicroAccess WAND is designed to be used primarily in interventional radiology suites and cardiac catheterization labs. Subsequent iterations are expected to include the PSI (percutaneous sheath introducer) WAND(TM), PICC WAND(TM) and Power WAND(TM) now in development. The latter two devices are designed to be used primarily by vascular nurse specialists for insertion of PICC and extended-dwell peripheral IVs.
The original Seldinger technique was developed in 1953 to reduce complications associated with the introduction of catheters and other medical devices into blood vessels and hollow organs. Because there have been few significant improvements to the technique since it was invented, what is now known as the Modified Seldinger Technique still carries serious risks for patients and clinicians.
The WAND is designed to reduce these risks, which include accidental needlesticks, bleeding, contamination, embolism, and loss of cannulation. Future product iterations are expected to provide additional safety benefits.
Product page: MicroAccess WAND …
Press release: Access Scientific Receives CE Mark for The WAND MicroAccess Safety Introducer
Flashback: WAND Vascular Introducer Gets FDA OK