Biomerix enters distribution agreement with Medline

Biomerix Corporation, a medical technology company developing and manufacturing innovative hernia repair products, today announced that it has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with Medline Industries, Inc., the nation's largest privately held manufacturer and distributor of medical and surgical products in the United States.  Pursuant to the terms of the agreement, Medline will commercialize Biomerix's novel composite soft tissue repair devices ASSURE™ and REVIVE™ in North America and Europe.

ASSURE™ with two distinctly different sides, features the Biomerix Biomaterial™ on one side, developed to facilitate rapid tissue ingrowth and healthy biointegration, and on the opposite side, the resorbable lactide caprolactone copolymer film designed to minimize tissue attachment to the device in case of direct contact with the viscera.  ASSURE™ is indicated for use in both open and laparoscopic ventral hernia repairs, soft tissue deficiencies, and for the temporary bridging of fascial defects.  

REVIVE™ also featuring the Biomerix Biomaterial™, acts as an ideal three-dimensional tissue scaffold facilitating rapid tissue ingrowth and the body's natural healing process.  The unique construction of REVIVE™ is engineered to optimize handling characteristics and deliver high mechanical strength.  The novel device can be utilized in a variety of soft tissue repair procedures and for both open and laparoscopic inguinal hernia repairs.

Kenneth G. Hayes, President and Chief Executive Officer of Biomerix Corporation stated, "We are pleased with this agreement and look forward to a successful, valuable partnership with Medline.  A skilled distribution and sales organization, Medline offers a broad field presence and a robust infrastructure.  We believe both ASSURE™ and REVIVE™ incorporating the novel Biomerix Biomaterial™, represent a significant technological advance in the repair of hernias and soft tissue deficiencies."

Medline recently announced the signing of a three-year national agreement with Premier Purchasing Partners, the group purchasing unit of Premier, Inc., to provide surgical mesh biomaterials used in soft tissue reinforcement to the more than 2,200 U.S. hospitals and 58,000 healthcare sites that are members of the Premier healthcare alliance.  The agreement, which took effect October 1, 2010, includes ASSURE™ and REVIVE™ products for the repair and reinforcement of hernia and other fascial defects.

"The addition of ASSURE™ and REVIVE™ with the unique Biomerix Biomaterial™, is a logical next step in our strategic effort to provide a broad portfolio of high quality products in the field of hernia repair," said Medline's Divisional Vice President, Marc Lessem.  "As we expand into more unique and sophisticated product lines, Biomerix offers the perfect blend of value and technology."