USHIFU buys high-intensity focused ultrasound manufacturer

USHIFU, a provider of non-invasive high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for prostate cancer, has completed the acquisition of Focus Surgery of Indianapolis, creator and manufacturer of the Sonablate 500, an image-guided acoustic ablation device.

The Charlotte, N.C.-based USHIFU said the acquisition will allow the company to expand the Focus’ HIFU technology platform, as well as gain access to new markets, such as India.

The acquisition also is an opportunity to commercialize many of HIFU’s applications for bloodless surgery, according to Narendra Sanghvi, president of Focus.

The Sonablate 500, which is not approved in the United States, is a non-invasive medical device that utilizes ultrasound energy to destroy tissue within the body, USHIFU said. It was developed by Focus and is manufactured by Misonix, which also holds distribution rights in Europe. Takai Hospital Supply and THS International distribute the Sonablate 500 in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

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