ATS Medical gets patent for laser-cutting technology used in heart procedures

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota — Cardiology device maker ATS Medical Inc. has been issued a patent for technology used in implantable devices that involves a laser-based system for cutting tissues.

The technology allows for precise tissue cutting without any fraying at the material’s edges and also minimizes the effect of the laser’s heat on surrounding tissue, according to a statement from the company. The technology has been “instrumental” in the design and manufacture of the company’s 3F-branded products, such as an aortic valve that can be implanted without requiring sutures.

ATS announced last week that it has received European regulatory clearance to sell its 3F Enable Aortic Bioprosthesis. The device can be folded to allow placement through a small incision and then expanded once inside a patient. It allows for less-invasive aortic valve replacement and shorter procedure times than other commercially available alternatives, the company says.

ATS acquired the technology in 2006 in its purchase of Irvine, Calif.-based 3F Therapeutics.