Germany-based medical device firm B Braun has entered a multi-year strategic alliance with Dutch health technology company Royal Philips to develop ultrasound-guided regional anaesthesia and vascular access.
The firms intend to combine clinical expertise, sales, service channels and R&D capabilities to jointly develop and commercialise regional anaesthesia solutions.
The solutions are expected to increase needle visualisation and guidance, as well as optimise procedure workflows and resource planning.
Vascular access procedures that require insertion into deeply seated veins will also be addressed.
The alliance will also include the launch of the new Xperius ultrasound system in cart and ultra-mobile tablet versions, to support the regional anaesthesia requirements at the point of care.
Philips Diagnosis & Treatment businesses chief business leader Rob Cascella said: “By partnering with B Braun, we have created a solution for ultrasound-guided regional anaesthesia comprising the Xperius ultrasound system, decision support software, echogenic needles, and a suite of services.
"This new alliance is a great example of our commitment to partnering with industry leaders with complementary skills to increase our footprint in the therapy market.”
The Xperius system is said to provide accurate needle targeting and positioning through its intuitive user interface, high-quality images and articulating arm.
Designed to complement B Braun's ultrasound guided regional anaesthesia offering, the new system will support future needle visualisation and guidance innovations.
Philips will be providing installation and service for the Xperius platform, while it will be co-branded and sold through B Braun's sales network.
Image: Xperius ultrasound system. Photo: courtesy of Philips.
