Gore to Acquire Conformal Medical, Expanding its Presence in Endovascular Treatments

“The investigational CLAAS AcuFORM System represents the kind of transformative, science-driven innovation that reflects our long-term commitment to improving patient care,” said Bret Snyder, board chair and CEO of W. L. Gore & Associates. “It is an ideal fit with our endovascular portfolio and a strong complement to our existing cardiac products. As a privately held company founded on scientific innovation, Gore continues to thoughtfully pursue opportunities and partnerships that expand our ability to improve lives through the work of all our businesses, including expanding our ability to serve clinicians and improve patient outcomes.”

The investigational Conformal CLAAS AcuFORM System features a nitinol endoskeleton with a proprietary foam matrix implant designed to conform to a broader range of left atrial appendage (LAA) anatomies with fewer sizes. Designed in two sizes, the device has the potential to transform LAAO into a same-day procedure, moving clinical practice away from general anesthesia and overnight hospitalizations. The investigational CLAAS AcuFORM System is currently in clinical testing and not available for commercial use. 

LAAO is a one-time procedure for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib) that aims to reduce the risk of stroke-causing blood clots forming in the LAA and eliminate the need for long-term daily oral anticoagulant therapy. AFib is projected to reach more than 12 million cases in the U.S. by 2030, according to the American Heart Association.

The acquisition advances Gore’s expansion into adjacent endovascular treatments and reflects the company’s long-term commitment to develop and invest in breakthrough medical technologies. Gore has developed numerous innovations through the past 50 years across its cardiac, vascular, and surgical solutions portfolios.

“We are pleased to join forces with a partner that reflects our belief that the investigational CLAAS AcuFORM Device can prove to be a transformative solution for stroke prevention. Our stakeholders will realize the value of this partnership as we bring this therapy through the clinical and regulatory process and eventually make it available to patients worldwide,” said Conformal Medical President and CEO James Reinstein. “This partnership combines Conformal’s deep expertise in LAAO with Gore’s world-class capabilities in technology development, distribution and operations. It will enable us to leverage Gore’s global presence, accelerating our mission of shaping the future of stroke prevention.” FBN

Courtesy Photo: W. L. Gore & Associates increases endovascular portfolio with a strong complement to its existing cardiac products.