NEWS

WIRES

OTHER

Covidien Enters Hemorrhoidopexy Market with New Hemorrhoid Stapling Technology

The new, innovative instrumentation features important advances in hemorrhoid stapler technology and design that address what surgeons say are their biggest challenges in performing the hemorrhoidopexy procedure. Covidien is demonstrating the new technology at the American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons annual scientific meeting this week.

Hemorrhoids are one of the most common ailments in the U.S., affecting more than half the population, according to industry estimates. Stapled hemorrhoidopexy, in which internal hemorrhoidal tissue is internally stapled and excised, is considered a less painful alternative to surgical hemorrhoidectomy.

The EEA Hemorrhoid & Prolapse Stapler Set is designed to facilitate each of the four steps in the hemorrhoidopexy procedure - dilation, purse-string placement, tissue incorporation and stapling and resection. It is the only circular stapler kit equipped with a detachable anvil with holes, transparent winged port and clear anoscope kit and bridge. These features allow for better tissue access and visibility and consistent results in purse-string placement, staple formation through DST Series Technology and tissue volume capture and incorporation.

Dr. Sang W. Lee, Associate Professor of Surgery, Section of Colon and Rectal Surgery, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill-Cornell Medical College, said, "Before Covidien's introduction of the EEA Hemorrhoid & Prolapse Stapler Set, I think that the adoption of hemorrhoidopexy was limited, mainly due to the limitations of the device that was available then. Surgeons were frustrated because of poor exposure and difficulties in properly applying the device. I think that Covidien's new hemorrhoid stapler changes all that. It provides significantly better exposure and clear visualization of underlying anatomic landmarks to facilitate the accurate placement of purse-string sutures, which is the key component of the operation. In my practice, I found that the new Covidien device allows me to provide more consistent results with outstanding clinical performance. I will not perform the procedure without it!"

As part of its commitment to evidence-based medicine, Covidien is organizing a clinical study involving the EEA Hemorrhoid & Prolapse Stapler Set with DST Series Technology. Covidien also is publishing a series of clinical experience papers.

ABOUT COVIDIEN

Covidien is a leading global healthcare products company that creates innovative medical solutions for better patient outcomes and delivers value through clinical leadership and excellence. Covidien manufactures, distributes and services a diverse range of industry-leading product lines in three segments: Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supplies. With 2009 revenue of $10.7 billion, Covidien has 42,000 employees worldwide in more than 60 countries, and its products are sold in over 140 countries. Please visit www.covidien.com to learn more about our business.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=6292814&lang=en

Covidien
David T. Young, 203-492-6333
Public Relations Manager
Surgical Devices
david.young@covidien.com
or
Bruce Farmer, 508-452-4372
Vice President
Public Relations
bruce.farmer@covidien.com
or
Coleman Lannum, CFA, 508-452-4343
Vice President
Investor Relations
cole.lannum@covidien.com
or
Brian Nameth, 508-452-4363
Director
Investor Relations
brian.nameth@covidien.com