Visura Technologies announced today that Christine Horton has assumed the role of president and CEO at the medical device company.
Minneapolis-based Visura develops state-of-the-art visualization solutions for improving the quality and efficiency of transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) probe intubation.
The company said in a news release that Horton takes on the leadership position as Visura prepares for the U.S. commercialization efforts for its TEECAD system. Visura designed the FDA-cleared TEECAD system as a disposable camera that connects to TEE probes to offer physicians real-time visualization during esophageal intubation, improving probe placement for TEE procedures.
Horton holds 30 years of commercialization experience, having led startups and mid-sized companies, with her past roles including CEO at CoreSpine, where she raised capital, published data and led the company through FDA clearance.
“This is a pivotal time for Visura as the company prepares to deliver the TEECAD system to the U.S. market,” Visura Chairperson Kathy Tune said in the release. “Christine brings extensive medtech commercialization expertise to the organization. Her success as a leader across key strategic commercial areas, along with her long-standing professional relationships, make her an asset to the growth of Visura’s business and we are fortunate to have her on the team.”
TEECAD, a first-of-its-kind camera, addresses the challenge of the current standard of using blind TEE probe intubation for heart valve and atria imaging in procedures including transcatheter mitral valve repair and replacement (TMVR) and left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) device implants.
“Addressing the challenge of blind TEE probe intubation is important for physicians and institutions that are working toward zero-hospital acquired complications,” Visura founder and cardiologist Dr. David Marmor said. “At Visura, we’ve developed a simple, easy-to-use solution that eliminates the need to navigate blindly. The TEECAD device provides imaging of the esophagus and nearby structures to support first-pass intubation success, giving physicians confidence during probe placement.
“I am thrilled to have Christine leading the Visura team as we deliver this valuable tool to clinicians and patients across the U.S.”