Focal Therapeutics Launches BioZorb LP, Expanding Utility of 3D Implant for Breast Cancer Patients

ALISO VIEJO, Calif., April 7, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Focal Therapeutics, makers of the three-dimensional BioZorb™ implant used in breast conservation therapy, announced it has launched BioZorb LP™. The new "low-profile" design expands the spectrum of surgical sites in which the bioabsorbable marker can be placed.

Compared to the original BioZorb spiral design, BioZorb LP accommodates smaller surgical tissue sites. The marker has utility in smaller breasts, in peripheral areas of the breast and in locations with less surrounding tissue. Implantation of the marker after tumor removal helps to delineate the surgical cavity for radiation treatment and long-term monitoring.

"Everyone understands the need for delivering more personalized, targeted and precise medical care," said Alison Laidley, M.D., a Dallas breast surgeon with Texas Breast Specialists who was among the first physicians to use BioZorb LP. "These new designs allow me to offer the BioZorb marker to more of my breast cancer patients."

Breast conservation therapy (BCT) involves lumpectomy surgery to remove breast cancer, typically followed by radiation to destroy any remaining cancer cells. As with the spiral design, BioZorb LP is sutured into the tumor bed at the time of cancer excision. The LP model maintains the three dimensional aspects of the pioneering BioZorb spiral marker and similarly contains 6 titanium clips held in a fixed array.

BioZorb serves as a communication tool between the surgeon and the radiation oncologist. Clinicians report that the marker helps provide more precise targeting of radiation treatment. It is also used to assist with monitoring the area of surgery over time. There is no other technology that marks the surgical site in this three dimensional fashion.

"Our radiation oncologists who oversee post-surgical radiation treatment have embraced this technology," Dr. Laidley said. "We have also seen that patients support the idea of minimizing toxicity to surrounding healthy tissues during their radiation treatment."

The implant's bioabsorbable material dissolves in the body over the course of a year or more, while the marker clips remain in place. Researchers have reported that after the device is implanted, the breast tissue surrounds it and begins to heal. The device can be used during oncoplastic surgery and reconstructive lumpectomy to help mark the surgical site as the breast's shape and contour is maintained.

The LP model is the latest product development from Focal Therapeutics. Both the spiral and low profile BioZorb markers are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.

BioZorb is now offered to patients at more than 200 U.S. cancer treatment centers. The implant, which began commercialization less than two years ago, has been used in more than 3,000 breast cancer surgeries.

About Focal Therapeutics

Focal Therapeutics pioneered the marking of soft-tissue surgical sites in three dimensions. The company developed and manufactures BioZorb, a proprietary, bioabsorbable device that provides 3D radiographic marking and has unique clinical utility for patient imaging. Used by general, breast and oncoplastic surgeons, the BioZorb line of products is now offered to patients in leading academic and community cancer centers throughout the U.S. For more information, call (U.S.) 949-600-5050, or visit www.focalrx.com.