Summary: Medtronic and Contego Medical have formed an exclusive U.S. distribution agreement, expanding Medtronic’s investment in Contego and granting Medtronic the option to acquire the company. This partnership focuses on Contego’s revascularization products.

Key Takeaways:

  • The partnership broadens Medtronic’s presence in the fast-growing carotid disease market with Contego’s innovative product portfolio.
  • Medtronic’s investment and planned distribution strategy underscore both companies’ commitment to improving revascularization treatment options for patients with carotid and peripheral vascular disease.

Medtronic has entered into an exclusive U.S. distribution agreement with Raleigh, North Carolina-based Contego Medical to distribute the company’s products.

Exclusive U.S. Distribution Agreement and Investment

Under the agreement, Medtronic will be the sole U.S. distributor for Contego’s portfolio of commercially available products, which provide revascularization treatment for carotid and peripheral vascular disease. The agreement also includes an increased investment in Contego and an option to acquire the company. Medtronic has held a minority investment in Contego since 2020.

“Contego’s innovations, backed by excellent data, are transforming how carotid disease is treated and complement the Medtronic peripheral and stroke protection portfolio,” said David Moeller, senior vice president and president of Medtronic Peripheral Vascular Health, which is part of the company’s Cardiovascular portfolio. “This strategic agreement with Contego Medical expands our commitment to this fast-growing carotid market and exemplifies Medtronic’s steadfast dedication to advancing innovation and enhancing patient care.”

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Portfolio of Commercially Available Products

This agreement includes Contego Medical’s portfolio of commercially available products, including the recently FDA approved Neuroguard IEP System, a unique 3-in-1 carotid stenting system that combines a high-performance stent, post-dilation balloon, and an integrated embolic protection (IEP) filter as well as Excipio Peripheral Thrombectomy Devices.

The Neuroguard IEP system is backed by clinical data demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of the system. Contego reports the clinical trials consistently recorded low event rates, including no major strokes, no neurologic deaths, and no stent thromboses, up to 2 years after. Additionally, Contego Medical is currently evaluating the Neuroguard IEP System with direct transcarotid access and protection system, TCAR-IEP, to demonstrate advanced stroke protection regardless of vascular approach. The Neuroguard IEP Direct system is currently limited by Federal law to investigational use only and is not commercially available in the U.S.

“This strategic agreement marks a significant milestone for both Contego Medical and Medtronic. By combining our innovative product portfolio with Medtronic’s extensive market presence and clinical leadership, we are positioned to revolutionize revascularization treatment in the carotid and peripheral vascular disease space,” said Ravish Sachar, MD, founder and chief executive officer of Contego Medical. “This partnership enhances our ability to deliver state-of-the-art solutions to patients and reinforces our commitment to expanding access across the United States.”

Medtronic intends to leverage its Peripheral Vascular and Neurovascular commercial teams to distribute Contego’s portfolio of products in spring 2025.