The Proxima Generation 2 arterial blood analyzer is a dedicated system that uses a disposable multiparameter microanalyzer integrated into an existing arterial or venous line on the patient. When a reading is required, blood is withdrawn from the patient into the device and a panel of analytes is measured, providing an equivalent performance to that of a lab or point-of-care (POC) full-size arterial blood gas analyzer; all blood is returned into the patient after the measurement. The proprietary bedside monitor is equipped with a touch screen user interface, with measurements displayed on screen as well as HL7 data output and an optional printer.

The device integrates into existing equipment and workflow, with a 72-hour use life, matching that of line replacement practice. Glucose, blood gas, and electrolyte measurements can be done as frequently as appropriate with results on demand in real time. Among the benefits of the system are close monitoring and titration of therapy and implementation of glycemic control protocols. The system also provides blood conservation, the potential to reduce blood transfusion, reduced blood exposure for caregivers, and reduced line infection for patients. The Proxima Generation 2 arterial blood analyzer is a product of Sphere Medical (Cambridge, United Kingdom), and has received the European Union CE marking of approval.

“The achieving of CE Marking for Proxima Generation 2 is a major milestone achievement for Sphere Medical and sets the foundations for the commercialization of our lead product,” said Stuart Hendry, CEO of Sphere Medical. “The Company now intends to initiate a number of marketing studies in leading UK hospitals which will utilize the Proxima device to build up substantial feedback on clinical use.”

The company has also developed a device for continuous blood monitoring in the bypass circuit in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery (CPB), based on the same technological platform, and has developed and is selling the Pelorus 1000, a device that can measure blood levels of the intravenously (IV) administered anesthetic drug propofol.

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