A new hemodialysis system has been launched by Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA), which is designed to prevent blood clotting without the use of blood thinner medication.
The device includes an anti-thrombogenic polymer, named Endexo, which is added during the manufacturing of dialyzers and bloodlines.
Endexo is made of surface modifying macromolecules that aim to block platelets and proteins from sticking to and coating solid surfaces.
This could potentially reduce the risks of blood clots, while also increasing the biocompatibility of its dialysis systems.
As part of the Fresenius new system, Citrasate dialysate would also be used with the new dialyzers and bloodlines. This new device reduces the need for physicians to administer blood thinners such as heparin.
Heparin is commonly used during hemodialysis to prevent blood clots. However, the usage of the drug is associated with a range of near and long-term side effects, including low platelet count, high cholesterol and osteoporosis.
This is the second breakthrough designation granted to the company by the US FDA this year.
