Arrow International


Arrow International, Inc. combines technology and product innovation to extend the use of catheterization for the diagnosis and treatment of critically ill patients. Arrow disposable critical care catheterization products are used principally to access the central vascular system for administration of fluids, drugs and blood products. These products are also used for patient monitoring, and diagnosis. Market studies indicate that Arrow is a leading supplier of central vascular access catheterization products worldwide.

The Company's Cardiac Assist Division is keenly focused on mechanical devices that support the heart such as Intra-Aortic Balloon (IAB) Pumps and Catheters. The IAB devices are short-term assist devices. Arrow's technology is uniquely positioned to benefit the growing number of heart failure patients.

Company History

2007 On October 1, 2007, Arrow International was acquired by Teleflex Incorporated (NYSE:TFX). Arrow products are now part of the Teleflex Medical family of brands.

2006 Arrow introduces the Arrow SmartSeal™ Hemostatic Peelable Dialysis Sheath designed to minimize risk of air embolism, minimize blood loss and reduce clinicians’ exposure to blood-borne pathogens during the entire catheterization procedure.

Arrow introduces the maximal barrier precautions tray, a new CVC insertion kit. The tray, which is available in different configurations, provides a comprehensive array of tools to prevent central line infections and is designed to help hospitals and healthcare workers comply with the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s (IHI) 100,000 Lives Campaign.

2005 Arrow introduces Arrow Simplicity™ micro-puncture introducer set, a new dialysis access product to be used in combination with Arrow’s chronic hemodialysis catheters. Micropuncture is a common technique used to gain safe and easy access to the patient’s vasculature, as well as to determine the appropriate length catheter for the patient prior to catheterization. The Arrow Simplicity was designed to simplify this technique by adding more functionality into the guidewire.

2002 Arrow offers the first stimulating continuous nerve block catheter, the StimuCath™, which confirms positive placement of the catheter next to the nerve. The StimuCath technology can reduce the risk of secondary block failure, while improving pain management for the patient.

2000 The Company introduces an advanced, truly automatic intra-aortic balloon pump called the AutoCAT®. The pump features AutoPilot™, a mode of operation that automatically selects operating parameters for optimal temporary cardiac assist.

Innovations in safety. ARROWg+ard Blue Plus®, a second-generation antimicrobial catheter, receives FDA clearance. This innovation provides intra-luminal antimicrobial protection, enhancing patient safety. Arrow introduces central venous catheterization kits with an increased margin of safety. The kits include Sharps Safety Features designed to protect physicians and clinicians from accidental skin punctures: Arrow Staple Anchoring Device, Arrow SharpsAway® II Locking Disposal Cup, and a Protected Scalpel. www.arrowintl.com