BTG (LSE: BTG) today announced the first successful implantation of its Sentry bioconvertible inferior vena cava (IVC) filter in patients outside of a clinical trial.
The Sentry device won FDA 510(k) clearance in 2017. London-based BTG acquired the device in September through its purchase of Galway, Ireland–based Novate.
The Sentry device is meant to provide protection from a pulmonary embolism. It has what BTG describes as a unique bioconversion feature that eliminates the need for device retrieval.
“Placing the BTG Sentry filter gives me confidence in reducing potential complications seen with conventional filters,” said Dr. Ayad K.M. Agha, who performed the procedure on one of his patients.
“Using the BTG Sentry IVC filter only requires one visit which means my patient doesn’t have to worry about coming back to make sure the filter is retrieved. This is better for the patient and their families and removes the risk of any complications that may arise on a follow-up procedure,” said Agha, who is director of interventional radiology and an interventional radiologist at Cardiovascular Interventional Radiology Centers in Phoenix, Ariz.