Pioneer sternal cable product approved in Canada

The latest approval of a Pioneer Surgical product comes from Canada, where the company's Sternal Cable System, used for chest surgery, has recently been given the ok for use by surgeons.

The system was FDA-approved in 1994 and approved in Europe in 1999, and has been used for more than 200,000 patients worldwide. Part of the reason it's gaining in acceptance and popularity, according to Eric Baldwin, general manager for Pioneer's orthopedic and cardiac division, is its ease of use, which means better efficiency.

"The ability to offer a proven technology that is both beneficial to the patient and cost effective for the healthcare system is a major focus at Pioneer," says Baldwin.

The Sternal Cable System is an improvement on the traditional monofilament wire used in such surgeries; it uses multi-strand cabled which is tightened and secured with Pioneer’s accompanying tensioner and crimper instrument. The process offers easier insertion and removal of wiring, smoother and more flexible wire, and a more robust closure. The system also offers a range of implants and materials, including tissue and bone needles.

With the latest approval, Pioneer is introducing the system to the Canadian marketplace through Ryan Medical, Inc., a distributor located in Ontario. They’ll be exhibiting the product at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress coming up in October.

"We are excited to expand our sales force as this marks the first time a Pioneer-distributed product will be offered in the Canadian marketplace," says Peter Didyk, director of sales and marketing for the orthopedic and cardiac division.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Eric Baldwin, Pioneer Surgical Technology