Supira Medical, a Shifamed portfolio company, has initiated a U.S. early feasibility study (EFS) to evaluate the safety and feasibility of its novel percutaneous ventricular assist device (pVAD) in patients undergoing high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (HRPCI). The multi-center, prospective, single-arm study marks a significant step toward addressing the limitations of current options for cardiovascular support during complex PCI procedures.
The first U.S. EFS procedure was successfully performed by Dr. David Kandzari, Chief of the Piedmont Heart Institute and the study's national principal investigator. The Supira System is designed to provide high flow rates through a small profile, with a console intended to simplify workflows in the catheterization lab.
Addressing Unmet Needs in High-Risk PCI
HRPCI patients, often characterized by complex coronary anatomy, compromised hemodynamics, and multiple comorbidities, require robust cardiovascular support to mitigate the risk of hemodynamic instability during the procedure. pVADs play a crucial role in maintaining adequate blood flow to vital organs in these scenarios. Moreover, pVADs are critical in managing cardiogenic shock (CS), a condition with high mortality rates where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
"I am pleased to share that Supira’s U.S. EFS began with its first successful enrollment, supporting the enthusiasm among investigators to bring this program to the U.S. The Supira pump delivers impressive flow rates through a remarkably small profile, with a console that supports simplified workflows. This unique combination promises to address limitations of presently available options while enhancing cath lab efficiency," stated Dr. Kandzari.
Supira System: Aims and Features
The Supira System is an investigational device and is not currently approved for sale in the U.S. or elsewhere. It is designed to offer a less invasive and more efficient means of providing circulatory support during HRPCI and in cases of cardiogenic shock. The company has already gathered data from over 70 patients treated in South America during initial first-in-human and feasibility studies.
"We believe the Supira System is a transformative innovation and look forward to expanding the significant body of evidence from our 70-patient South America experience. With these U.S. cases, we are one step closer to our goal of reshaping outcomes for patients while delivering value for physicians and the healthcare system," said Dr. Nitin Salunke, President and CEO of Supira Medical.
Regulatory Pathway and Future Plans
The FDA has acknowledged the potential benefits of the Supira System by granting it a review pathway under the Breakthrough Device Program. Results from the U.S. EFS will be used to support the submission of an Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) for a pivotal study, which is a necessary step before the device can be considered for market approval in the United States.
