New "see-and-treat" TRUCLEAR™ hysteroscope improves options for office hysteroscopy

LONDON, March 9, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Smith & Nephew (NYSE: SNN; LSE: SN), the global medical technology business, today announced the launch of the TRUCLEAR 5C Hysteroscope Set for the combined diagnosis and removal of abnormalities within the uterine cavity. The ability to identify and remove intrauterine pathologies using a single scope is known as "see-and-treat" by surgeons and reduces the need for patients to schedule multiple visits.

The 5C Hysteroscope builds on the success of the innovative TRUCLEAR 5.0 System, which studies suggest may represent the best choice for office hysteroscopy.ⁱ A recent scientific review of published data related to 1,184 patients demonstrated that the TRUCLEAR 5.0 System outperformed conventional resectoscopy and conventional outpatient operative hysteroscopy on such issues as safety, efficacy, surgical complications, estimated learning curve and operating time. ⁱ

According to gynecologist feedback gathered after using the 5C device, the new 5C Hysteroscope's slanted tip allowed for easier insertion into the cervix, thus minimizing the need for dilation and potentially improving the overall patient experience.ⁱⁱ   

"The TRUCLEAR 5C Hysteroscope Set allows me to perform both diagnostic and operative hysteroscopy in a way that is more efficient for both me and my patients," says Dr. Daniel B. Williams of Houston Fertility Institute.  "If polyps or fibroids are identified, I am then able to use the TRUCLEAR System for pathology removal without changing scopes."

"We are excited by the opportunity the TRUCLEAR 5C offers surgeons to diagnose and treat uterine abnormalities in the most efficient and patient-friendly way possible," said Mira Sahney, General Manager for ENT and Gynecology at Smith & Nephew. "And as clinical evidence continues to support the use of office-based hysteroscopic procedures, we will continue to pioneer advancements that help save healthcare resources and avoid unnecessary hospital admissions."

About TRUCLEAR Procedure

During the procedure, a scope (known as a hysteroscope) is inserted through the cervix allowing the gynecologist to see inside the uterus. Through that same scope, the doctor then inserts small instruments that mechanically cut and remove tissue, such as polyps and fibroids, from the uterus.  Unlike some other treatment options, the mechanical design of the TRUCLEAR Procedure means there is no risk of electrical injury to the lining of the uterus.

For detailed product information, including indications for use, contraindications, effects, precautions and warnings, please consult the product's Instructions for Use (IFU) prior to use at www.sntruclear.com.

About Smith & Nephew

Smith & Nephew is a global medical technology business dedicated to helping healthcare professionals improve people's lives. With leadership positions in Orthopaedic Reconstruction, Advanced Wound Management, Sports Medicine and Trauma & Extremities, Smith & Nephew has around 15,000 employees and a presence in more than 100 countries. Annual sales in 2015 were more than $4.6 billion. Smith & Nephew is a member of the FTSE100 (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN).

For more information about Smith & Nephew, please visit our website www.smith-nephew.com, follow @SmithNephewplc on Twitter or visit SmithNephewplc on Facebook.com.

Forward-looking Statements

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^™ Trademark of Smith & Nephew. Certain marks registered US Patent and Trademark Office.

ⁱ Noventa, M. MD, Ancona, E., MD, Quaranta, M., MD, Vitagliano, A., MD, Cosmi, E., MD, D'Antona, D., MD, and Gizzo, S., MD. (2015)
"The Icon of Hysteroscopic Future or Merely a Marketing Image? A Systematic Review Regarding Safety, Efficacy, Advantages and Contraindications". Reproductive Sciences, Published Online.

ⁱⁱ Data on file

SOURCE Smith & Nephew

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