Integra LifeSciences Features The Integra(TM) Endoscopic Gastroc Release System (EGR) Product Line At The Annual ACFAS Meeting

PLAINSBORO, N.J., March 9, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation (Nasdaq:IART) announced today that it is featuring the Integra(TM) Endoscopic Gastroc Release System (EGR) product line at the Annual Meeting of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) on March 9-12, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Integra's EGR System is a disposable device with a unique articulating blade that allows selective cutting of soft tissues. It is intended for use in the surgical treatment for posterior heel cord, or equinus, contracture. Integra will provide a hands-on demonstration, complete with anatomic gastroc model and endoscope, at booth #101, for surgeons to trial the EGR System.  

"We've had excellent surgeon feedback on the EGR System," said Pete Ligotti, Vice President of Marketing for Integra Extremity Reconstruction. "The selective cutting provided by the retractable blade system and the exceptional visualization have exceeded their expectations, and have helped to limit uncertainty when performing the procedure. We're really pleased that we can give surgeons an opportunity to try out the device at the ACFAS meeting."

Equinus contracture is a condition that limits ankle motion, frequently due to contraction or tightness of the calf muscle. Surgical treatment involves recession of selected tissues of the calf muscle (composed of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscle complex). Traditionally performed as an open procedure, the recession of the gastrocnemius aponeurosis can be performed endoscopically through a small incision. This is a minimally invasive, less traumatic procedure that produces a smaller and less apparent scar.

Gastrocnemius recession is being used increasingly as a component in the surgical treatment of posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), diabetic forefoot ulcers, symptomatic acquired flatfoot, and hallux valgus. Integra estimates that these pathologies affect tens of thousands of patients annually. 

The EGR System is sold by Integra's Extremity Reconstruction sales organization, which focuses on lower extremity fixation, upper extremity fixation, tendon protection, peripheral nerve repair/protection and wound repair.