Stereotaxis, Abbott Ink Pact To Combine Mapping & Robotic Tech: FDA Approves Abbott's Next-Gen Abalation Catheter

Stereotaxis Inc STXS shares are gaining after the company announced a global collaboration with Abbott Laboratories ABT to integrate Abbott's EnSite X EP System with Stereotaxis' Robotic Magnetic Navigation systems.

Stereotaxis and Abbott have completed the integration of their technologies and performed testing demonstrating joint compatibility. 

The integrated technologies are cleared for use in Europe, with additional regulatory clearances expected in the coming months.

Concurrently, the FDA approved Abbott's TactiFlex Ablation Catheter, Sensor Enabled. The company says it is the world's first ablation catheter with a flexible tip and contact force technology.

It is used to perform an ablation procedure to treat atrial fibrillation (AFib), the most common abnormal heart rhythm. The TactiFlex catheter can result in reduced procedure times and better safety than the company's previous-generation catheters.

The TactiFlex catheter uses a tip design with a laser-cut pattern that flexes when in contact with the heart wall, thus helping direct fluid to the treated tissue and allowing for more accurate positioning of the catheter – providing up to two times higher stability in a beating heart – for consistent therapy delivery.

Tuesday, the FDA approved Abbott's spinal cord stimulation devices for chronic back pain in people who have not had or are not eligible to receive back surgery, known as non-surgical back pain. 

Price Action: STXS shares are up 34.7% at $2.28, and ABT shares are up 0.34% at $108.84 on the last check Friday.