AtriCure, a surgical treatments and therapies developer, has unveiled its cryoSPHERE MAX cryoablation probe for post-operative pain management.
The latest launch follows the introduction of the cryoSPHERE+ cryoablation probe for the CryoIce platform by AtriCure in April.
cryoSPHERE MAX features a larger ball tip, enhancing Cryo Nerve Block therapy (cryoNB).
According to AtriCure, the probe reduces freeze times by 50% compared to the first-generation cryoSPHERE probe. It also cuts freeze times by over 30% compared to the cryoSPHERE+ probe.
The product is designed to improve patient outcomes and streamline surgical procedures.
AtriCure president and CEO Michael Carrel said: “Every second matters in patient care, and the cryoSPHERE MAX optimises efficiency for patients and surgeons.
“Strengthening our groundbreaking platform of devices for Cryo Nerve Block therapy underscores AtriCure’s commitment to enhancing surgeons’ procedural experience and pursuing better outcomes for patients.”
The cryoSPHERE MAX device enhances AtriCure’s innovation in cryoNB therapy.
The surgical treatments and therapies developer said the latest offering reduces the recommended ablation time by 50% to just 60 seconds per targeted nerve.
In addition, this next-generation device features advanced insulation and improved Nitrous Oxide gas use. It also offers tactile tissue feedback and real-time temperature monitoring.
The larger 10 mm ball tip provides 60% more surface area than previous cryoSPHERE devices. This design improves target tissue coverage, enhances heat extraction, and enables larger ice ball formation.
AtriCure said these upgrades cut down freeze times, reduce total operative time, and optimise gas usage.
cryoNB therapy is a non-pharmacological procedure that uses AtriCure’s cryoICE platform to freeze targeted intercostal nerves. This technique temporarily blocks pain along peripheral nerve pathways.
Physicians incorporate cryoNB therapy into their multimodal strategies for post-operative pain relief, providing benefits for several months after surgery.
University of Miami Health System, Miami cardiothoracic surgery Joseph Lamelas said: “I found the cryoSPHERE MAX probe to be easier to use in locating the rib/nerve and to maintain contact.
“The time to reach optimal temperature was very fast as well, as was the rapid disconnect, making the one-minute freeze very manageable.”
