Ethicon, part of Johnson & Johnson Medical Devices Companies, has launched the Echelon Endopath Staple Line Reinforcement (SLR), a buttressing device designed to further strengthen staple lines and reduce potential complications during bariatric, thoracic and general surgical procedures. 

This is the company’s first buttress solution designed for use with its own industry-leading Echelon Flex Powered Staplers with GST reloads, which have been associated with a lower rate of air leaks and bleeding complications.  

Ethicon developed the Echelon Endopath SLR to help surgeons who want even more strength around the staple line and to overcome issues with current buttressing options which can be difficult to load, result in inconsistent staple line coverage and may loosen with typical manoeuvring during stapling procedures.  

Neil Floch, director of minimally invasive and bariatric surgery, Norwalk Hospital, said: “The Echelon Endopath SLR takes a different approach to buttressing that offers significant improvements in ease of use, functionality and OR efficiency. For those who buttress, I expect this will become their preferred solution.”

The device’s click-and-go applicator and buttress attachment material are designed for precise control, consistent and quicker loading, and a more secure attachment for uninterrupted tissue manipulation and release. 

Tom O’Brien, worldwide president, endomechanical, Ethicon, said: “The launch of the Echelon Endopath SLR marks a new milestone in Ethicon’s continuing commitment to provide a better way to staple, and now a better way to buttress, when needed in minimally-invasive surgical procedures. At Ethicon, we continually look for ways to optimise usability for surgeons and improve patient outcomes.”