Medtronic wins FDA approval for new implantable cardiac device

According to Medtronic, Attain Ability has the thinnest lead body of any left-heart lead currently available, providing physicians with a tool to deliver therapy directly to hard-to-reach areas of the heart.

Attain Ability incorporates insulation material developed by NASA Langley Research Center that was previously evaluated for space applications, high-performance engines and harsh environments, the company said. This application reportedly marks the first time a NASA-developed material has been used in this kind of implantable medical device.

Additionally, Attain Ability can be delivered by an inner catheter, the Attain Select II. This feature helps physicians place the lead directly in difficult-to-reach areas of the heart, the company added.

In addition to the US, the Attain Ability lead is available in Europe, Japan, Canada and Australia. It is reported that the Attain Ability lead is compatible with the Attain family of exclusive delivery tools including the Attain Select II, the Attain Hybrid Guide Wires and Attain Command – a new family of left-heart lead delivery catheters available in the US and Canada.

Pat Mackin, president of the cardiac rhythm disease management business and senior vice president at Medtronic, said: “Attain Ability is the latest innovation in our long-term strategy to provide physicians with a broad portfolio of leads and delivery systems to meet the unique needs of their patients. We’re proud to partner with NASA, another innovation leader, to provide physicians with a unique, technology-based solution to assist physicians with optimal lead placement in heart failure patients.”