LifeCell Fact Sheet
Overview
Through its development and commercialisation of advanced biological products made from human and animal skin tissue, LifeCell is an industry leader in the tissue regeneration market. Its biological products are used by surgeons to restore structure and function in a variety of complex reconstructive surgical procedures.
History
Founded in 1986 by Dr. Stephen Livesey, LifeCell began as a technology transfer from the University of Texas focused on helping to heal burn patients. Originally with headquarters in Houston, Texas, LifeCell consisted of a few dozen employees working in a small laboratory shared with the University of Texas. In 1992, the firm expanded its operations to the skin graft market and sought to transform the way soft tissue defects are treated by using a regenerative approach.
Following more than 10 years of research and development, AlloDerm® Regenerative Tissue Matrix was launched as a tissue regeneration matrix product that today is used by surgeons to deal with complex clinical situations such as post-mastectomy breast reconstruction, complex hernia repair, traumatic abdominal injuries and chronic diabetic foot ulcers, among others. In June 2007, LifeCell received FDA clearance for its next generation soft tissue product, Strattice™,Reconstructive Tissue Matrix which leverages the strengths of AlloDerm, but utilizes a porcine tissue. The company was acquired by KCI in May, 2008.
Key Product Portfolio
Reconstructive Tissue Products:
- AlloDerm Regenerative Tissue Matrix,donated allograph human dermis used for plastic, reconstructive, general surgical, burn and periodontal procedures.
- Strattice™ Reconstructive Tissue Matrix, a proprietary, porcine-based dermis used for reconstructive and general surgical procedures.
Clinical Distinction
The patented tissue processing technology of LifeCell produces clinical outcomes that distinguish its products within the area of regenerative medicine. The process allows for the removal of cells that are known to create a rejection response within the recipient-patient, while keeping intact the tissue’s essential biomechanical components.
Because these biochemical compounds remain in their natural state, the new tissue is recognised and accepted by the body. The result is rapid revascularisation and cell repopulation, with tissue that ultimately looks, acts and responds in a similar fashion to the tissue it replaced.
Research and Development
The research and development of LifeCell
is focused on building on its core understanding of biological tissue in order to develop biosurgery products. LifeCell balances its investment in research, product development and clinical studies to enhance current products and ensure new product development. Research and development and clinical initiatives include programmes designed to potentially extend product use into new surgical procedures.
LifeCell’s research activities are funded by current operations as well as research grants obtained through the US Department of Defense. LifeCell’s investment in research and development in 2008 was $23.5 million, and research grant revenues recognised for the year totaled $424,000.
Contact:
Kinetic Concepts, Inc.
Kevin Belgrade
Office: 210-255-6232; Wireless: 210-216-1236
media@kci1.com
This Web page contains information about products which may or may not be available in different countries and if applicable, may or may not have received approval or market clearance by a governmental regulatory body for different indications for use.
Updated: 21 September 2009