Merit Medical’s PhD™ Polycarbonate Hemostasis Valve Now Available in the United States

Merit Medical Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:MMSI), a leading manufacturer and marketer of proprietary disposable devices used primarily in cardiology, radiology, oncology, and endoscopy, announced the launch of its PhD (“Push, Hold, Deliver”) polycarbonate hemostasis control valve, now available in the United States.

The dual-seal PhD device allows operators to manipulate the valve with one hand by pressing down on the cap, keeping the other hand free for the insertion and withdrawal of diagnostic/interventional devices. Its two seals – a primary compression seal and a secondary polyisoprene push and release bleedback seal – help physicians minimize blood loss without restricting device movement. The PhD allows for pressure injections up to 400 psi, accommodates devices up to 7.3F, and features a clear body that provides unobstructed visibility.

The PhD device has been available to European markets since 2014. There, it has seen significant success, with unit sales averaging 34% year-over-year growth. In the United States, Merit will offer the device as a stand-alone or in combination with Merit’s suite of leading inflation devices and custom kits. Merit will also offer optional sidearm extension tubing that creates additional space between the valve and connected devices.

“The entire Merit team is thrilled to announce that the PhD device is now commercially available in the United States. The PhD device will enhance Merit’s US offerings and evolve the standard of care for procedures that utilize hemostasis valves,” said Fred Lampropoulos, Chairman and CEO of Merit Medical. “Our product’s design, quality build, and unmatched customization will make it a valuable asset to physicians across the country.”

The commercial launch of the PhD device follows the late 2018 reveal of Merit’s basixTAU™, a first-of-its-kind inflation device featuring a fold out handle that can increase the speed of inflations and deflations. The basixTAU™ inflation device provides greater versatility and ease of use, while reducing rotational force by up to 67%. It is also designed with a clear barrel for visibility and an easy-to-read luminescent analog display suitable for use in low-light procedures.  The 20 mL device can achieve a maximum pressure of 30 ATM.

About Merit

Founded in 1987, Merit Medical Systems, Inc. is engaged in the development, manufacture and distribution of proprietary disposable medical devices used in interventional, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, particularly in cardiology, radiology, oncology, critical care and endoscopy. Merit serves client hospitals worldwide with a domestic and international sales force and clinical support team totaling exceeding 300 individuals. Merit employs approximately 6,000 people worldwide with facilities in South Jordan, Utah; Pearland, Texas; Richmond, Virginia; Malvern, Pennsylvania; Rockland, Massachusetts; San Jose and Aliso Viejo, California; Maastricht and Venlo, The Netherlands; Paris, France; Galway, Ireland; Beijing, China; Tijuana, Mexico; Joinville, Brazil; Markham, Ontario, Canada; Melbourne, Australia; Tokyo, Japan; Reading, United Kingdom; Johannesburg, South Africa; and Singapore.