Description

SyntheMed is a biomaterials company engaged in the development and commercialization of anti-adhesion and drug delivery products. The company is primarily focused on the advancement and expansion of product development programs based on its proprietary bioresorbable polymer technology.

Products/Services

Synthemed is developing a portfolio of anti-adhesion products for use in different anatomic locations, led by REPEL-CV Bioresorbable Adhesion Barrier. REPEL-CV Adhesion Barrier is a thin film designed to be placed over the surface of the heart at the conclusion of an open heart surgical procedure to reduce the formation of post-operative adhesions. SinusShield is a bioresorbable polymer membrane indicated for use in patients undergoing nasal and sinus surgical procedures as a space- occupying stent to separate and prevent adhesions between mucosal surfaces. Other products under development focus on preventing or reducing post-operative adhesions subsequent to gynecologic, orthopedic and general surgical procedures and are in various stages of clinical trials and preclinical studies. A drug delivery product intended to reduce the onset of atrial fibrillation after open heart surgery is currently in preclinical development.

Technology

Bioresorbable polymers are polymers that serve a temporary function in the body and then safely degrade into fragments which are either metabolized or eliminated via normal excretory routes. The company's proprietary line includes water soluble polymers, solid and injectable polymeric materials and thermal gels. The polymers can be reconstituted into forms of various viscosities depending on the temperature.

Market/Customers

Adhesions are unavoidable byproducts of the trauma and bleeding that are associated with virtually all internal surgeries. They may cause such complications as infertility, bowel obstruction, chronic pain and restriction on joint mobility, in addition to the previously mentioned complications in cardiac surgery. The estimated annual market potential for anti-adhesion products ranges from $2-3 billion.

Status

The lead product, REPEL-CV, is currently marketed internationally and is awaiting FDA approval in the United States. SyntheMed has also received FDA clearance to market SinusShield Adhesion Barrier in November 2008, a product intended for use in ENT procedures. The company is in discussions with prospective distribution partners for SinusShield.