Insightec inks ExAblate co-development deal with Siemens

Insightec said today it inked a collaborative strategic deal with Siemens Healthineers (NYSE:SI) to develop compatibility between Insightec’s Exablate Neuro system and Siemens Magnetom Aera and Skyra 1.5 Tesla and 3T clinical MRI systems.

The companies said the agreement will expand Siemens diagnostic imaging portfolio and will allow existing and future Siemens MRI customers access to the Exablate Neuro system.

“Our agreement with Siemens Healthineers will allow us to significantly expand Exablate Neuro’s market presence. Siemens has embraced our technology and together we will bring our therapy to significantly more patients and providers. Insightec is committed to continue investing in research and development of MRgFUS technology. The strategic collaboration with Siemens Heathineers will allow more patients and researchers globally to benefit from the unique MRgFUS technology,” Insightec CEO Dr. Maurice Ferré said in a press release.

The Exablate Neuro device uses high-intensity, focused ultrasound to thermally ablate targeted tissue, guided by continuous magnetic resonance imaging; the procedure can be performed non-invasively through an intact skull.

“This strategic partnership of two leading organizations is exciting and further underlines Siemens Healthineers’ strategy of enabling better patient outcomes by broadening its diagnostic imaging portfolio into advanced therapies in the area of neurological and other disorders. Together with Insightec and its innovative technology, we will jointly drive healthcare further together with our strong research and clinical customer network worldwide,” Siemens Healthineers magnetic resonance biz GM Dr. Christoph Zindel said in a prepared statement.

Last month, Insightec said the FDA approved its Exablate Neuro device for treating essential tremor in patients who don’t respond to drug therapy.

Essential tremor can be treated with beta blockers or anti-convulsant drugs, but some patients don’t respond to drug treatment, the federal safety watchdog said.

A surgical treatment called thalamotomy or deep-brain stimulation can also be used to destroy portions of the thalamus, which controls some involuntary movements. Insightec applied for pre-market approval for the Exablate Neuro treatment in October 2015.

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