CORDIS ENDOVASCULAR LAUNCHES PALMAZ BLUE STENT.

Cordis Endovascular, Warren, N.J., a division of Cordis Corporation, a Johnson & Johnson company, has launched the PALMAZ(R) BLUE(TM) Transhepatic Biliary Cobalt Chromium Stent, the latest advancement in balloon-expandable stent technology. Featuring L605, a cobalt alloy enhanced with tungsten, the PALMAZ(R) BLUE(TM) Stent is stronger than stainless steel stents and uses less metal. It is designed to provide physicians with increased strength, radiopacity, low profiles and superior flexibility and deliverability.

Each year, more than 30,000 Americans are affected by life-threatening blockages in the bile ducts, leading to the need for treatment. A biliary stent is often used to open the blockages so that fluids may continue to be transported to various organs such as the liver, gallbladder and small intestines.

"PALMAZ(R) BLUE(TM) is an important advance in balloon expandable stents and the PALMAZ(R) Stent legacy. This new stent has a lower profile and increased radiopacity - both meaningful improvements for physicians and patients," said Dr. Craig M. Walker, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.A.C.A., F.A.C.P., F.S.C.A.I., F.A.S.C.I., F.C.C.P., F.I.C.A., founder, president and medical director, Cardiovascular Institute of the South.

"With the U.S. launch of the PALMAZ(R) BLUE(TM) Stent, we are building on a proud legacy which began with the first PALMAZ(R) Stent introduced in 1987 and more than 15 years of clinical history and long-term performance", said Jack Springer, general manager, Cordis Endovascular.

The PALMAZ(R) BLUE(TM) Stent features a closed cell design, tapered radial arcs, optimized struts and double Omega hinges which are designed to optimize fatigue life, maximize radial strength and minimize foreshortening. The product is currently available in a .018 over-the-wire system in 4-7mm expansion diameter and 12, 15, 18 and 24mm lengths.

Cordis Endovascular is a market leader in endovascular diagnostic catheters and a recognized leader in endovascular education, research and development. The company has the resources to develop and launch breakthrough treatments and a history of delivering reliable, quality products to customers and patients.

Cordis Corporation, a Johnson & Johnson company, is a worldwide leader in developing and manufacturing interventional vascular technology. Through research, development and innovation, physicians worldwide are better able to treat the millions of patients who suffer from vascular disease.

For more information, visit http://www.cordis.com or call 908/412-7332.