San Antonio, Texas - Kinetic Concepts, Inc. (KCI) has received validation from the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for three separate patents relating to negative-pressure wound therapy licensed to KCI by Wake Forest University Health Sciences.
Recently a patent dispute broke out between UK-based Smith & Nephew and San Antonio, Texas-based KCI over rights relating to negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT). Smith & Nephew recently had patents validated in the UK and Germany.
Negative pressure wound therapy uses vacuum pumps, in combination with polyurethane foam or gauze dressings, to lower the pressure over long-term intractable ulcers and wounds which have not responded to other treatments. This approach reduces wound debris and controls exudates.
The USPTO has provided public notice of its intent to issue certificates of re-examination affirming the validity of key claims in KCI's patent numbers: 5 636 643 and 5 645 081. The USPTO also issued a formal office action confirming the validity of all claims in KCI's 7 216 651 Patent.
"In a competitive market, patents remain important and are a protection due any company that truly innovates," said KCI executive vice president, Stephen Seidel. "KCI's patents reflect thorough research undertaken with an eye towards patient care, meaningful clinical outcomes and reduced costs to the healthcare system," he added.
Seidel had previously said the company would appeal against a recent UK patent ruling in favour of Smith & Nephew. (RD)
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