start is through examining Minnetronix’s landmark Neurapheresis Therapy device. To put it briefly, the system is designed to combat subarachnoid haemorrhagic strokes, a type of stroke that is often caused by burst aneurysms. These strokes are often caused by contaminated cerebrospinal fluid near the brain and account for around 40% of all stroke-related deaths. To fix the problem, Minnetronix’s system draws toxic cerebrospinal fluid from the body, then sends it through an elaborate series of filters, before finally pumping it back into the patient.


So, the Neurapheresis is an incredibly sophisticated and distinctive piece of kit – and, legally, it has to be. As Grande notes, after all, Minnetronix is sticking with its CDMO business while also venturing into original designs. Unless the company wants to receive threatening letters from lawyers, Minnetronix has to ensure that it doesn’t step on the toes of OEM partners by building the same products cheaper. It goes without saying that this technique isn’t an easy one. Yet, as Grande emphasises, it also forces innovation. As he puts it: “They see an unmet need in the marketplace.” At any rate, the work of similar companies suggests that he’s right. Once again, Minnetronix’s Midwestern cousin Surmodics is a good example here. Working with Abbott Laboratories, a Chicago multinational, it recently developed a drug-coated balloon to fight peripheral artery disease in the leg.


“There are costs associated with developing your own device. To do that requires R&D staff and team resources.”


All the same, it would be wrong to imply that Minnetronix’s deep experience as a CDMO can’t come to bear on inhouse projects like the Neurapheresis. Grande, for his part, is unequivocal. He “absolutely” believes that the company’s background in contract manufacturing means it is able to spot ground its OEM partners haven’t yet occupied, adding that “creating expertise” is vital to success. Certainly, the company’s Neurapheresis hints at this symbiosis. The machine may not compete directly with other devices in the market, yet Minnetronix still leant on its background of developing medical devices that circulate bodily fluids. More than that, this approach means that Minnetronix’s staff can pool know-how and


Medical Device Developments / www.nsmedicaldevices.com ADV-LifeScience2020_85x255_ENG.indd 1 25/09/20 09:30 49


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