Axogen (Nasdaq:AXGN) this week announced the first surgical implantation of its Avive+ Soft Tissue Matrix.
Avive+ is a resorbable, multi-layer, placenta-based allograft that provides temporary protection and tissue separation during the critical phase of nerve healing. The soft tissue matrix is processed and distributed as a 361 tissue product in accordance with FDA Good Tissue Practices under 21 CFR part 1271 regulations.
“We are excited to expand our offering in nerve protection with the introduction of this resorbable barrier to support the critical phases of healing for nerve injuries,” CEO and President Karen Zaderej said in a news release. “We are pleased with initial surgeon feedback and look forward to making Avive+ Soft Tissue Matrix available to more surgeons during our national launch, which is anticipated in the second quarter of 2024.”
Axogen’s nerve protection category covers a wide range of injuries and defects, according to the company. That includes nerve compression, crush, complex traumatic injuries and surgical exposures. Axogen said that the diversity of the injuries and their anatomical locations present unique challenges for surgeons and patients.
“Avive+ Soft Tissue Matrix has great promise for patients who may be suffering from nerve trauma,” said Dr. Brendan MacKay, Associate Professor and Director of Hand and Microvascular Surgery at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, TX. “Avive+ addresses a meaningful gap in the protection of traumatized nerves; it is easy to handle during surgeries and performs particularly well in challenging procedures where the nerve is injured, but not transected.”