New Products and Services

Enhanced laser system enhances PVP efficiency

San Jose, CA-Laserscope has launched a redesigned version of its GreenLight laser system for photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP), indicated for the treatment of BPH. The system features new fiber optic delivery device enhancements that permit greater flexibility and control during treatment, increased system up-time, faster setup time, and real-time response to fiber manipulation. This version of the system is available new and as a system upgrade.

For more information, visit http://www.laserscope.com/.

Rockville, MD-The Interstitial Cystitis Association's new video, IC: The Basics, offers up-to-date information on theories, treatments, self-help measures, and research developments in interstitial cystitis. Presented by Robert Moldwin, MD, author of The Interstitial Cystitis Survival Guide, it is available in DVD or VHS formats, with special pricing for ICA members.

For information, visit http://www.ichelp.org/.

Barrier spray protects skin of incontinent patients

Skillman, NJ-Aloe Vesta Protective Barrier Spray from ConvaTec is an occlusive barrier that repels moisture and protects skin from irritants in urine, feces, and exudate. The manufacturer claims it is suitable for incontinent patients at risk for skin breakdown or with skin damage. The Bag-on-Valve delivery system allows the product to be sprayed directly on the skin from any angle and prevents the need for contact to sensitive skin. As the propellant evaporates, the active ingredient, petrolatum, increases in concentration by as much as 72%, according to ConvaTec. It is alcohol- and fragrance-free.

For more informaton, visit http://www.convatec.com/.

Program improves bladder control in as few as 6 weeks

Libertyville, IL-The evadri Bladder Control System from Hollister, Inc. is an office-based pelvic floor muscle retraining program that includes six to eight sessions of lifestyle adjustment, monitored Kegel exercises, and biofeedback combined with a home-based exercise program for effective bladder control in as few as 6 weeks. Hollister claims many patients are able to stop using disposable pads after completing the program, and suggests the evadri system as first-line therapy for stress and urge incontinence cases.

For more information, visit http://www.rediscoverbladdercontrol.com/.

Thermotherapy catheter is designed for large prostates

For more information, visit http://www.urologix.com/.

FDA OKs antithrombotic drug for abdominal surgery

Philadelphia-The FDA has approved GlaxoSmithKline's anti-thrombotic drug fondaparinux sodium (Arixtra) for preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients undergoing abdominal surgery who are at risk of thromboembolitic complications. The injectable anticoagulant may be administered in conjunction with warfarin sodium (Coumadin) and has not been associated with any cases of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, according to the manufacturer.

For more information, visit http://www.gsk.com/.