Integra LifeSciences Acquires Arkis BioSciences to Enhance Neurocritical Care Capabilities

On July 31, 2019, VCBeat (WeChat ID: vcbeat) learned that Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation had acquired Arkis Biosciences Inc., a private company offering a portfolio of neurosurgical devices, including the CerebroFlo external ventricular drainage (EVD) catheter featuring Endexo technology. This permanent additive is designed to reduce the likelihood of catheter occlusion caused by thrombosis. The acquisition of Arkis Biosciences enhances Integra’s capabilities in neurocritical care and solidifies its global leadership in advanced catheter technologies.

“Neurocritical care is a key focus area for Integra. We recently launched the CereLink intracranial pressure monitor and invested in clinical experts to better support neurocritical care teams,” said Dan Reuvers, President of Codman Specialty Surgical. “Today’s acquisition enriches our premium product portfolio, enabling us to better treat patients, and underscores our ongoing commitment to addressing unmet needs in patient care.”

Catheter obstruction and bacterial colonization are two major challenges in the management of external cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage in patients with neurocritical illness.

This acquisition not only complements Integra’s current product portfolio but also provides surgeons with comprehensive treatment options to address the following issues:

Bacterial Colonization: Integra LifeSciences’ Bactiseal antimicrobial EVD catheter provides a proven barrier against Gram-positive bacterial colonization on the catheter surface for up to 28 days, offering sustained protection during the critical period following implantation.

Catheter Occlusion: Arkis Biosciences’ CerebroFlo EVD catheter utilizes exclusively licensed Endexo technology, a permanent additive that reduces fibrinogen and platelet activation and adhesion in external ventricular CSF management.

Dr. Chad Seaver, CEO of Arkis Biosciences, stated, “The introduction of the CerebroFlo EVD catheter first establishes Endexo’s leadership in neurocritical care. As a global leader in neurosurgery, Integra is the right partner to bring this important technology to patients and clinicians worldwide.”

EVD catheters are used in conjunction with various EVD systems for external drainage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to manage elevated intracranial pressure in patients with acute brain injury and hydrocephalus. Reducing complications associated with EVD management, such as bacterial colonization on the surface of the EVD catheter or catheter obstruction, is fundamental to neurocritical care practice.

Integra LifeSciences expects that this acquisition will not have a material impact on its 2019 financial results.

Integra LifeSciences is a world-leading medical technology company dedicated to minimizing uncertainty for surgeons, enabling them to focus on delivering the best possible care to patients. Integra provides innovative solutions for orthopedic extremities surgery, neurosurgery, reconstructive surgery, and general surgery. As a leader in the field of neurosurgery, Integra offers a comprehensive portfolio of implants, devices, instruments, and systems for neurosurgery, neuromonitoring, neurotrauma, and related critical care. In the United States, Integra is a leading supplier of surgical instruments, providing products to hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and other healthcare settings, including physician and dental practices.

Arkis BioSciences develops advanced treatments for intracranial hypertension, hydrocephalus, and other related conditions. Founded in 2013 by neurosurgeons, a former engineering patent examiner, and business development professionals, Arkis is dedicated to developing a portfolio of products designed to enhance surgical safety, reduce procedural invasiveness, and improve shunt options, thereby enabling personalized therapy and achieving better clinical outcomes.

(Compiled by Tian Shuhang)