Synthes to distribute ECM products manufactured by Kensey Nash following a strategic agreement

Synthes, Inc. (SWX: SYST.VX), a leading global medical device company in the orthopaedic trauma, spine, and cranio-maxillofacial markets, and Kensey Nash Corporation (Nasdaq: KNSY), a leading developer and manufacturer of innovative regenerative medicine products, today announced a strategic agreement for products developed from Kensey Nash's unique extracellular matrix (ECM) technology.

Kensey Nash Corporation has developed a proprietary technology platform for processing porcine-derived extracellular matrix tissues. Under the agreement, Kensey Nash will develop and manufacture porcine dermis-based ECM products, which Synthes will market and distribute for select reconstructive surgical applications. Specific terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

The ECM products have the benefit of rapid revascularization and are therefore quickly repopulated with cells from the host tissue, ultimately converting into functional living tissue. They are to be used in a wide range of soft tissue reinforcement procedures. Among the many possible applications being examined are abdominal repairs as well as head, neck and chest plastic reconstructions.

"We are pleased to broaden our product offering with this important biomaterials technology. We look forward to our partnership with Kensey Nash in our efforts to provide our customers with innovative and effective solutions for the benefit of their patients," commented Michel Orsinger, President and CEO of Synthes.

"This partnership represents an important milestone in our plans to build upon Kensey Nash's leadership position as a developer of innovative regenerative medicine products," commented Joseph W. Kaufmann, President and CEO of Kensey Nash. "Synthes is well respected as a global leader in the medical device industry and we look forward to building a valuable franchise with a series of ECM products," he concluded.