AtriCure Launches cryoICE cryoSPHERE Probe

AtriCure Inc., a developer of treatments for atrial fibrillation (Afib) and left atrial appendage management (LAAM), announced that it has launched the cryoICE cryoSPHERE probe in the United States. The cryoSPHERE probe is the first device in the cryoICE family solely dedicated to blocking pain by temporarily ablating peripheral nerves.
 
The cryoSPHERE probe offers a unique 8mm ball-tip design, a bendable distal shaft, and an ergonomic handle to provide cardiac, thoracic, and general surgeons ease of use when applying the device to the targeted peripheral nerves to block pain. The launch of the cryoSPHERE probe demonstrates AtriCure’s commitment to continued innovation in Cryo Nerve Block Therapy (cryoNB).
 
“The addition of the cryoSPHERE probe to our pain management portfolio is a major breakthrough in cardiac and thoracic surgery,” said Mike Carrel, president and CEO. “cryoSPHERE is the first of its kind, designed specifically to freeze nerves in the chest wall. With cryoSPHERE, surgeons can use cryoNB therapy to reduce their patients’ post-operative pain.”
 
The cryoSPHERE technology uses a unique freezing method to temporarily block nerves from transmitting pain signals. The block typically lasts several months, during which time the nerve regenerates, giving the body time to heal. Because of the long-lasting nature of the therapy, physicians are adopting cryoNB as an adjunct to their pain management modalities, offering a unique solution for patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery.
 
“Since incorporating the technique of a cryoNB in my thoracic surgical practice several years ago, I have seen a remarkable improvement in the overall management of post-operative pain, post-operative recovery times, and patient satisfaction,” said Dr. Curtis Quinn, Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Elliott Health System, Manchester, N.H. “The cryoSPHERE probe is an impressive new tool dedicated to managing pain in patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery.”