Sanford inventor collaborating with medical giant

From staff reports

Sanford Health’s Dr. Patrick Kelly will collaborate with global medical technology leader Boston Scientific to develop a device that could transform treatment for life-threatening blood clots in the lungs.

Kelly has invented a less-invasive catheter system for treating a pulmonary embolism, or blood clots in the lungs, as part of Sanford Vascular Innovations, a division of Sanford Health.

Dr. Patrick Kelly

A blood clot in the lung can restrict blood flow, which in turn decreases oxygen levels in the blood and can affect other organs. Large or multiple clots can be deadly. They are most common after surgery, trauma or periods of prolonged immobility. They also are common in pregnant women and older patients.

“Dr. Kelly cares about keeping his patients independent and ambulatory. That’s why he’s worked so tirelessly to find a new treatment for them,” said Rich Adcock, chief innovation officer at Sanford Health. “We are so excited to work with Boston Scientific on a project like this – and, ultimately, to make a difference for our patients.”

Sanford Health and Boston Scientific are working to develop and optimize the catheter’s design. The process of bringing such a device to market can take many years – from engineering and design to clinical trials and finally FDA approval. Boston Scientific regularly partners with physicians and health care systems to develop technologies that could improve patient care or reduce health care costs.

“Engaging in collaborative partnerships with physicians, like Dr. Kelly, allows Boston Scientific to accelerate the pace of innovation in solving unmet clinical needs – ultimately influencing lower costs and better outcomes for patient care,” said Jeff Mirviss, senior vice president at Boston Scientific and president of Peripheral Interventions at the company.

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Sanford inventor collaborating with medical giant

Sanford Health’s Dr. Patrick Kelly will collaborate with global medical technology leader Boston Scientific to develop a device that could transform treatment for life-threatening blood clots in the lungs.

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