Ethicon Endo-Surgery Acquires Obtech Medical

In a move to expand its line of products for morbid obesity, Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. (Cincinnati, OH, USA) has acquired Obtech Medical AG (Baar, Switzerland), which markets the Swedish Adjustable Gastric Band (SAGB). Terms were not disclosed.

The SAGB is an inflatable band that is fitted around the uppermost part of the stomach during laparoscopic surgery, creating a small pouch and restricting food consumption. It creates a feeling of fullness and results in weight loss. The diameter of the band can be adjusted by a doctor by injecting or removing fluid, according to the weight loss requirements of the patient. European clinical data on the SAGB support the weight loss effects of laparoscopic gastric banding. In addition, after weight loss surgery, many patients see dramatic improvements in obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure.

Ethicon Endo-Surgery is a global supplier of minimally invasive and traditional surgical instruments and offers a full line of products used in weight loss surgery. "Weight loss surgery for morbid obesity is one of the fastest growing areas of surgery today,” said Nick Valeriani, worldwide franchise chairman, Ethicon Endo-Surgery. "Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding provides a minimally invasive alternative for people who otherwise might not consider weight loss surgery.”




Related Links:
Ethicon Endo-Surgery