03 December 2013 | News | By BioSpectrum Bureau
Medical devices such as EndoBarrier can help bridge the gap between pharmaceuticals and bariatric surgery
Singapore: Australia-based GI Dynamics has conducted a new meta-analysis that demonstrates EndoBarrier Therapy, an endoscopically-delivered device therapy approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity, to be robust and efficacious.
"The progressive nature of type 2 diabetes and obesity poses a significant and growing challenge in clinical practice, and current therapies often do not provide optimal solutions for many patients," said Mr David Maggs, chief medical officer of GI Dynamics, and lead author of the study.
Dr Maggs further said, "Medical devices such as EndoBarrier represent an exciting class of therapy that can help bridge the gap between pharmaceuticals, which may become less effective over time, and bariatric surgery, which can be effective, however, requires irreversible anatomical changes. These new meta-analysis data further support the strong safety profile and robust efficacy of EndoBarrier Therapy in the management of type 2 diabetes and obesity."
Mr Stuart A Randle, president and CEO, GI Dynamics, commented, "We are pleased to report these data during the IDF World Congress this week and share the measurable impact we are seeing EndoBarrier Therapy have on HbA1c levels, weight loss and key cardiovascular risk factors. Diabetes and obesity remain two of the largest health concerns around the globe, and despite available pharmaceutical and surgical options, these conditions remain inadequately treated and controlled in many patients. EndoBarrier Therapy is uniquely positioned to help these people who are living with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes and obesity."
More than 1,200 patients worldwide have been treated with EndoBarrier Therapy, the first endoscopically-delivered device therapy for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. It currently is approved for commercial use in Europe and Australia, as well as by a growing number of countries in South America and the Middle East.