The FDA granted premarket approval (PMA) for the Nexus aortic arch system last month. Nexus treats aortic arch disease, including chronic aortic dissections, in patients at high risk for open surgical repair. The bi-modular off-the-shelf device, made from nitinol and polyester, is designed to deliver a minimally invasive aortic arch solution.
Artivion agreed to pay $175 million for Endospan, less previously provided loans. It provided $25 million in loans to Endospan in 2024. The deal includes the potential for up to $200 million in additional consideration, contingent upon Nexus’ commercial performance in the U.S. over the next two years.
Atlanta-based Artivion develops, markets and sells a number of products in more than 100 countries around the world. Its offerings land within four groups: aortic stent grafts, surgical sealants, mechanical heart valves and implantable cardiac and vascular human tissue.
The companies expect Artivion to support the rollout of Nexus with its reach in cardiac and vascular surgery. It plans to work toward a full U.S. launch to build on Nexus’ established base in EMEA, where Artivion served as the exclusive distributor of the system. Endospan’s expanded portfolio also includes multi-branch configurations of Nexus Duo and Nexus Tre.
Commentary from Endospan and Artivion officials
Kevin Mayberry, CEO at Endospan, said:
“The FDA approval of the Nexus system was a pivotal moment for aortic surgeons seeking a technology specifically designed to treat the ascending and aortic arch. With Artivion’s acquisition of Endospan, this differentiated technology is being positioned within a company that understands the aortic space through a differentiated portfolio serving the multidisciplinary approach of open, endo and hybrid solutions.”
Pat Mackin, Artivion chair, president and CEO, said:
“Our acquisition of Endospan and its Nexus system completes our market-leading, three-pronged aortic arch portfolio. This technology, alongside AMDS and Arcevo LSA, positions us at the forefront of this segment as the only company globally with a complete portfolio of aortic arch solutions. Further, Nexus is a platform technology, not just a single product. With this acquisition, we are also adding a robust pipeline of next-generation arch technologies currently in development that we expect will further expand and strengthen our leadership position in the aortic arch market over time.”
