“EspritTM BTK System is a first-of-its-kind dissolvable stent for people with severe form of Peripheral Artery Disease PAD.”
The UAE has once again solidified its position as a regional leader in healthcare innovation by becoming the first country in the EMEA region to implement Abbott’s EspritTM BTK system, a breakthrough dissolvable stent designed for patients with Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia (CLTI) and severe Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) below the knee. Hospitals Magazine had the privilege to explore the significance of this milestone with Samih Al Mawass, Division Vice President for Abbott’s Vascular Business in EMEA. In this exclusive interview, Al Mawass shares insights into the impact of the EspritTM BTK system on the UAE’s healthcare landscape, Abbott’s strategic vision for expanding advanced healthcare solutions across the region, and the essential role of innovation in addressing some of the most pressing cardiovascular challenges.
The UAE recently became the first country in the EMEA region to implement the EspritTM BTK system. What is the significance of this milestone for the UAE’s healthcare landscape and Abbott’s presence in the region?
The United Arab Emirates has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation, particularly in the healthcare sector, which it highly prioritizes. By becoming the first country in the EMEA region to implant EspritTM BTK, the UAE reinforces its status as a healthcare hub. This milestone not only enhances the country’s reputation but also signifies a transformative shift in patient care and treatment options in the region.
For Abbott, this achievement presents a unique opportunity to strengthen our commitment to the region and align our solutions with the UAE’s vision for advanced medical technologies and improved patient outcomes.
How does the successful implantation in the UAE align with Abbott’s broader strategy to expand innovative healthcare solutions across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa?
Since it was founded in 1888, Abbott has remained dedicated to empowering individuals to lead healthier, fuller lives. Today, our 114,000 colleagues serve people in over 160 countries worldwide, delivering life-changing technologies across the healthcare spectrum. By introducing Esprit™ BTK System in the UAE, we underscore our commitment to providing patients and their healthcare providers across the region with innovative products and solutions designed to enhance health outcomes and promote well-being.
How do you think EspritTM BTK will address the growing challenges of treating peripheral artery disease (PAD) and Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia (CLTI), amidst the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases?
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is highly prevalent, yet many people have never heard of the condition. More than 200 million people worldwide have PAD, with nearly 11% affected by CLTI1,2. It’s a condition that occurs when the arteries become clogged with plaque, preventing blood flow and oxygen from reaching the lower legs and feet. There have been limited treatment options approved for blocked arteries below the knee. EspritTM BTK System is a first-of-its-kind dissolvable stent, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in April 2024 for people with a severe form of PAD, which is CLTI below-the-knee (BTK). It is designed to keep arteries open and deliver a drug called everolimus to support vessel healing prior to dissolving.
Healthcare in a competitive market. What’s your strategy to strengthen leadership worldwide and in the Middle East?
At Abbott, we put the people we serve at the heart of everything we do, designing our products with the same care as if they were for our own families. As a global healthcare leader, we proactively identify and address the world’s greatest health challenges by developing breakthrough-tailored solutions.
Leveraging our 135-year legacy and deep understanding of local market dynamics, we consistently deliver unique and meaningful experiences to our customers, ensuring that every interaction with our team or our life-changing products is a memorable one.
Innovation is key in the vascular field. How does Abbott drive innovation to tackle emerging challenges in cardiovascular care?
Innovation is fundamental to Abbott’s strategy, in the vascular field but also across all our business portfolio. We prioritize understanding current health needs while anticipating future challenges, which allows us to stay at the forefront of cutting-edge healthcare solutions. Our goal is to equip healthcare providers with the right tools and technologies precisely when needed, enabling them to deliver optimal patient care and achieve outstanding clinical outcomes.
REFERENCES
1. Fowkes, F.G., et al., Comparison of global estimates of prevalence and risk factors for peripheral artery disease in 2000 and 2010: a systematic review and analysis. Lancet, 2013. 382(9901): p. 1329-40.
2. Nehler, M.R., et al., Epidemiology of peripheral arterial disease and critical limb ischemia in an insured national population. J Vasc Surg, 2014. 60(3): p. 686-95 e2.