They typically insert the thin, flexible tubes in a process called catheterization to deploy devices such as left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), transcatheter aortic valve replacements (TAVRs) and occluders to stop bleeding. The catheter industry is regularly innovating to keep up with the medtech industry’s growing demand for smaller devices for larger patient populations.
Throughout 2020, we saw a number of FDA clearances and approvals for catheter-based technologies, including ones designed for conditions renal denervation and heart failure. Just a few months into 2021, the FDA has approved catheter-based innovations by two major medtech companies. Two others developed for high-risk patients are worth revisiting.
