PRINCETON, N.J., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Derma Sciences, Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: DSCI) announced that it will begin to sell its novel MOBILITY1(TM) Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Therapy device beginning in October after initially introducing the product to vascular surgeons at the 9th Annual New Cardiovascular Horizons (NCVH) Conference, scheduled September 10-13, 2008 in New Orleans. The patented device, licensed from Israeli technology company C-Boot in December 2006, is indicated for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, venous leg ulcers, lymphadema, the prevention of deep vein thrombosis, and numerous other indications. The product will be the only one of its kind, allowing mobile patients to receive optimal therapy while maintaining their lifestyle, as opposed to being homebound for treatment.
Derma Sciences CEO Ed Quilty stated, “This is another significant milestone for Derma as we continue to launch novel and important new technologies into the advanced wound care market. We’re excited about the launch of MOBILITY1 for several reasons: First, it is the only product of its kind and clearly will answer an unmet need among mobile patients who do not receive good outcomes from traditional static compression products like stockings and compression wraps. Allowing these patients to continue on with their normal lifestyle, getting them back to work sooner than later, will be a significant advantage over other pneumatic devices. Secondly, with its unparalleled ease of use, we believe that it will help to increase patient compliance, which is a huge issue with compression stockings, wraps, and other pneumatic devices. This should help drive efficacy, and potentially reduce the number of active leg ulcers and complications associated with these ulcers. Finally, we are excited to add another significant new product into our line, now that our sales force is up and running with our successful launch of MEDIHONEY(TM). This represents another step in the implementation of our strategic plan to drive shareholder value through the launch of novel, higher margin technologies.”
Compression therapy is broadly considered the standard of care for venous leg ulcers. Typically, patients will first receive inexpensive compression stocking and wraps, with outcomes measured over a six-month timeframe. Compliance is a significant issue with these types of products, as they are difficult for patients to apply, and can be painful. These products deliver what is known as “static” compression, as the level of compression remains consistent and does not change over time. Even with good compliance, usage of these products leads to a roughly 50 – 70% heal rate. For those patients who do not see good outcomes, the next course of action is the usage of an intermittent pneumatic compression device. This type of product delivers what is known as “dynamic” compression, where the compression first is applied at the heel, and then gradually progresses up the patient’s leg, helping to better move blood back to the heart. Although this dynamic compression is considered more optimal for those who do not heal with static compression, the compressors driving the system are quite large, necessitating the patients to remain at home while receiving therapy several times per day.
MOBILITY1 is based on two patents that allow the compressed air to be driven by the kinetic energy of the patient (while in motion). This allows the patient to keep their typical lifestyle, working, travelling, or simply getting around outdoors. The device also comes with a small compressor that can be used while the patient is at rest. The compressor itself is small enough to fit into a purse, briefcase, or travel bag, thus adding to the portability and mobility provided by the device.
Roughly 7 million people in the US suffer from Chronic Venous Insufficiency, and there are about 4 million leg ulcers in the US per year, with 85% of those resulting from vascular related issues. It has been estimated that the costs of care in the US for venous leg ulcers exceed $1 billion. Currently, static compression products such as stockings and wraps account for about $135 million, and stationary pneumatic compression devices account for $35 million.
About Derma Sciences
Derma Sciences is a global manufacturer and marketer of advanced wound-care products. Its key product, MEDIHONEY, is sold throughout the world by Derma Sciences and Comvita New Zealand — the licensor of the patented honey-based technology — and is the leading brand of honey-based dressings for the management of wounds and burns. The product has been shown to be effective in a variety of wounds and burns, and was recently the focus of a large-scale randomized controlled trial on leg ulcers. Derma has two products in development: the BIOGUARD(TM) line of barrier gauze dressings, and DSC127, the company’s novel angiotensin analog for accelerated wound healing and scar reduction. The barrier technology was licensed from Quick-Med in Q1 of 2007 and is pending its initial FDA marketing clearance. DSC127 was licensed from The University of Southern California in Q4 of 2007 and is entering into a Phase II study, with anticipated initial patient enrollment to begin in Q3 of 2008. For more information about Derma Sciences, Inc., visit its home page on the Internet at http://www.dermasciences.com/.
About New Cardiovascular Horizons
The 9th Annual New Cardiovascular Horizons (NCVH) Conference, scheduled September 10-13, 2008 in New Orleans, is the fourth largest cardiovascular conference in the nation. NCVH is the largest multidisciplinary conference to bring together cardiologists, fellows, residents, imaging professionals, surgeons, interventional radiologists, podiatrists, wound care specialists, cath lab techs, nurses, technologists, physician assistants, endocrinologists, family practice physicians, internal medicine specialists, pharmacists, EMTs, diabetologists, pharmacologists and vascular medicine specialists. Each year, the conference brings 3,500+ attendees, 125+ exhibitors , 180+ faculty and 200+ scientific presentations. The conference features live satellite broadcasts of interventional cases. A panel of renowned physicians narrates and discusses the cases during educational sessions, as they are viewed on wide screen by attendees. This dynamic teaching approach allows participants to experience decision making and procedures in real time. For more information about the New Cardiovascular Horizons Conference, visit its home page on the Internet at http://www.newcvhorizons.com/site.php.
Contact: Derma Sciences, Inc. Allen & Caron Inc Edward J. Quilty Rudy Barrio (US Investors) Chairman and CEO [email protected] [email protected] (609) 514-4744 Brian Kennedy (media) [email protected] (212) 691-8087
Derma Sciences, Inc.
CONTACT: Edward J. Quilty, Chairman and CEO of Derma Sciences, Inc.,+1-609-514-4744, [email protected]; or US Investors, Rudy Barrio,[email protected], or media, Brian Kennedy, +1-212-691-8087,[email protected], both of Allen & Caron Inc, for Derma Sciences, Inc.
Web site: http://www.dermasciences.com/
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