Bracco Diagnostics Inc. announces the launch of the PROTOCO2L TOUCH® Colon Insufflator for use in CT Colonography procedures

MONROE TOWNSHIP, N.J., March 27, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Bracco Diagnostics Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Bracco Imaging S.p.A., a leading global company in the diagnostic imaging business, today announced the launch of its PROTOCO₂L TOUCH Colon Insufflator. This device is used to inflate the colon with CO₂ in patients who undergo Computed Tomography (CT) Colonography (CTC) for the detection of colon cancer.

In the U.S., colon cancer is a leading cause of cancer related deaths. It is recommended that people age 50 and older be screened for the presence of this disease, as early detection can lead to increased cure rates. Advances in CT imaging have allowed for the examination of the colon via CTC, a quick, non-invasive test that does not require a patient to be sedated.

Due to the increasing evidence of the effectiveness of CTC, the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) classified CTC as a Grade A Screening test in June 2016.

"The USPSTF Grade A classification places CTC on par with optical colonoscopy, which has been the gold standard of screening for colon cancer," said Alberto Spinazzi, MD, Senior Vice President, Global Medical and Regulatory Affairs, Bracco Group. "Colorectal cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, but has a 90% cure rate when detected early." Spinazzi continued, "CTC offers clinicians and patients a fast and reliable screening test with an added benefit for patients in that they do not need to undergo sedation. This means that a patient does not need to have someone else drive them to and from their CTC exam, and the patient does not need to take a day away from their work."

The PROTOCO₂L TOUCH Colon Insufflator is used in CTC exams to obtain optical distension of the colon. The device utilizes automated insufflation of CO₂, which is more rapidly absorbed with less post-procedural discomfort than the alternative, room air. The PROTOCO₂L TOUCH Colon Insufflator offers clinicians touch screen, digital technology and other important features for procedural efficiency not available from the previous generations of colon insufflators.

The PROTOCO₂L TOUCH Colon Insufflator will be displayed at the Bracco Diagnostics Inc. booth at the Society of Abdominal Radiology (SAR) 2017 Annual Scientific Meeting and Education Course, taking place March 26-31, in Hollywood, Florida. The SAR scientific program offers many educational opportunities for CT Colonography, and Bracco Diagnostics is very proud to support this Annual Scientific Meeting.

Please see Important Safety Information below.

Indications and Usage:
The PROTOCO₂L TOUCH Colon Insufflator administers and regulates carbon dioxide as a distention media to the colon during CTC or Virtual Colonoscopy.

The PROTOCO₂L TOUCH Colon Insufflator provides a software controlled insufflation of carbon dioxide during CT Colonoscopy (CTC). Carbon dioxide is more rapidly absorbed than room air and helps minimize the patient's post-procedure bloating and cramping. The PROTOCO₂L TOUCH Colon Insufflator helps reduce staff time during the colon insufflation process and enhances productivity. Automated insufflation helps ensure adequate and consistent distension in a patient- and operator-independent manner. It also features a specially designed small tip for patient comfort, as well as safety features to help protect against over-insufflation.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION:
The PROTOCO₂L TOUCH Colon Insufflator should be used only when colon insufflation is indicated, and should therefore not be used for any other treatment. It should only be used under the direct guidance of a physician experienced in colon insufflation.

PROTOCO₂L TOUCH Instructions for Use may be obtained by contacting Bracco Diagnostics Professional Services Department at 800-257-5181, Option 2.

For more information about the PROTOCO₂L TOUCH Colon Insufflator go to http://www.braccoimaging.com/us-en/products-and-solutions/ct-colonography/protoco2l-touch

PROTOCO₂L TOUCH is manufactured for Bracco Diagnostics Inc., Monroe Twp., NJ 08831.

PROTOCO₂L TOUCH is a registered trademark of E-Z-EM, Inc.

About Bracco Imaging
Bracco Imaging S.p.A., part of the Bracco Group, is one of the world's leading companies in the diagnostic imaging business. Headquartered in Milan, Italy, Bracco Imaging develops, manufactures and markets diagnostic imaging agents and solutions that meet medical needs.

Bracco Imaging offers a product and solution portfolio for all key diagnostic imaging modalities:
X-ray Imaging (including Computed Tomography-CT, Interventional Radiology, and Cardiac Catheterization), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS), and Nuclear Medicine through radioactive tracers. The diagnostic imaging portfolio is completed by a range of medical devices and advanced administration systems for contrast imaging products.

The Company operates in over 100 markets worldwide, either directly or indirectly, through subsidiaries, joint ventures, licenses and distribution partnership agreements. With on-going research covering all key modalities, Bracco Imaging has a strong presence in key geographies: North America, Europe and Japan operating through the Joint Venture Bracco-Eisai Co. Ltd. The Company also operates in Brazil, South Korea, and China through the Joint Venture Bracco Sine Pharmaceutical Corp. Ltd.

Operational investments have been made in order to achieve top quality, compliant and sustainable eco-friendly production. Manufacturing activities are located in Italy, Switzerland, Japan, China, and Germany.

Bracco Imaging is an innovative Research and Development (R&D) structure with an efficient process oriented approach and a track record of innovation in the diagnostic imaging industry. R&D activities are managed in the three Research Centers located in Italy, Switzerland, and the USA.

To learn more about Bracco Imaging, visit www.braccoimaging.com.

Press Contact:
Kimberly Gerweck
Bracco Diagnostics Inc.
[email protected]

SOURCE Bracco Diagnostics Inc.

Related Links

http://www.braccoimaging.com