Dr. Ari Kramer, director and principal surgeon of vascular access surgery at Spartanburg Medical Center, successfully performed the first U.S. implantation of the VasQ device.

The procedure represents a pivotal advancement in vascular access procedures in the U.S. VasQ, developed by Laminate Medical Technologies, is the only approved product designed to assist surgical fistula success from the point of creation. The recent implantation at Spartanburg Medical Center was the first VasQ procedure since FDA De Novo was granted.

"I am excited to revolutionize the standard of care for our fistula patients with VasQ,” Dr. Kramer said. “I firmly believe that this device offers my patients the optimal prospects for a sustained, well-functioning fistula with reduced complications and the need for additional procedures."

VasQ is a nitinol-based external support device for the artery and vein anastomosis during the surgical creation of an arteriovenous fistula to promote maturation into a functional access for hemodialysis. The device was designed to provide structural reinforcement of the mobilized vessels and guides a more stable arterial flow profile as it transitions into the vein.

The importance of this innovation has been underscored by the surge in use of central venous catheters (CVC) during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to heightened risk of infection and mortality. Creating more functional fistulas with the assistance of a device like VasQ should help to reduce the CVC exposure for this patient population.

“Dr. Kramer’s dedication to providing the best possible care for his patients is highlighted through this inaugural implantation, which paves the way for countless others who need vascular access procedures,” said Phil Feisal, president of Spartanburg Medical Center. “Spartanburg Regional is committed to clinical innovation and the continued enhancement of patient care.”

In a statement, Laminate CEO, Tammy Gilon, hailed the successful completion of the inaugural VasQ case in the U.S. as a monumental achievement.

"This accomplishment represents the culmination of 12 years of dedicated effort, and we are elated to introduce VasQ to the U.S. population,” Gilon said.

To see a demonstration video of VasQ, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2W3HoTH2x58.

To learn more about Spartanburg Regional’s clinical innovations, go to SpartanburgRegional.com/Innovations.