Dr. Ari Kramer, Director and principal surgeon of Vascular Access Surgery at Spartanburg Regional Hospital in Spartanburg, SC, successfully performed the first U.S. implantation of VasQ™ since FDA De Novo was granted. 

Developed by Laminate Medical Technologies, VasQ™ stands as a pivotal advancement in vascular access procedures in the United States, being the only approved product designed to assist surgical fistula success from the point of creation.

VasQ™, a nitinol-based external support device, plays a crucial role in the surgical creation of an arteriovenous fistula to facilitate maturation into functional access for hemodialysis. The device provides structural reinforcement of mobilized vessels, guiding a more stable arterial flow profile as it transitions into the vein.

This innovative technology gains significance against the backdrop of increased central venous catheter (CVC) use during the COVID-19 pandemic, elevating the risk of infection and mortality. The introduction of VasQ™ aims to reduce CVC exposure for this patient population by creating more functional fistulas.

Dr. Kramer expressed his enthusiasm for the transformative impact of VasQ™ on patient care, stating, "I am excited to revolutionize the standard of care for our fistula patients with VasQ™. I firmly believe that this device offers my patients the optimal prospects for a sustained, well-functioning fistula with reduced complications and the need for additional procedures."

In a statement, Laminate CEO, Tammy Gilon, celebrated the successful completion of the inaugural VasQ™ case in the United States as a monumental achievement for Laminate Medical Technologies. Gilon remarked, "This accomplishment represents the culmination of 12 years of dedicated effort, and we are elated to introduce VasQ™ to the US population." 

The implantation of VasQ™ signifies a significant leap forward in vascular access surgery, promising improved outcomes for patients undergoing hemodialysis procedures.