Thoratec Acquires DuraHeart II Ventricular Assist System From Terumo

July 1, 2013—Thoratec Corporation (Pleasanton, CA) announced that it has acquired the DuraHeart II (DH-II) ventricular assist system from Terumo Heart, Inc. (Ann Arbor, MI). DH-II is an ultracompact, full-support, centrifugal flow chronic ventricular assist device (VAD) utilizing “force balance” suspension technology. Additionally, Thoratec and Terumo have entered into a distribution partnership, in which Terumo—with global corporate headquarters in Tokyo—will commercialize DH-II in Japan and potentially other parts of Asia.

According to Thoratec, the DH-II device utilizes primary magnetic forces balanced by hydrodynamic support to achieve consistent gaps across the operating range of the pump, independent of pump speed. This approach is designed to create a pumping mechanism with excellent blood-handling characteristics. Preclinical testing has shown a favorable profile for DH-II with respect to hemolysis, bleeding, and thrombosis.

Thoratec stated that it intends to apply its resources and expertise in mechanical circulatory support to advance the DH-II program through product development and clinical trials. Thoratec anticipates a first-in-human implantation of the DH-II pump in 2016 to be followed by clinical trials in the United States and abroad. The company advised that after clinical trials, the distribution partnership between Thoratec and Terumo should optimize worldwide patient access to the DH-II technology.

Thoratec's HeartMate II is the company's first-line intermediate-to-chronic left ventricular assist device. Its next-generation pump platforms include the HeartMate III and HeartMate PHP, which are expected to begin pivotal CE Mark trials in the second half of 2013, as well as the HeartMate left ventricular assist system and the Thoratec VAD. Thoratec also manufactures and distributes the CentriMag and PediMag/PediVAS product lines.

Terms of the acquisition include an upfront cash payment of $13 million and potential future milestone payments, based on regulatory approvals and product sales, of up to $43.5 million. As part of the agreement, a team of Terumo employees will transition to Thoratec and will continue to be based in Ann Arbor, Michigan.