Argon Medical Devices Launches Traveler Portal Vein Access Series for TIPS Procedures

March 15, 2023—Argon Medical Devices recently announced the introduction of the Traveler portal vein access series for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedures. The Traveler series, which includes Traveler 16, Traveler 21, and Traveler 38, is now available in the United States and Canada.

According to the company, Traveler is designed to improve component visualization and durability, which are common challenges of the TIPS procedure. Traveler supplements Argon’s Scorpion devices, which also support TIPS procedures. The company launched Scorpion in 2021.

“Several innovative features of the Traveler set make it easier to access the portal vein compared to other sets on the market,” commented Donna D’Souza, MD, in the company’s press release. “First, the metal cannula is very robust, and the shaping tool allows it to be curved to great degrees without compromising component integrity. Second, the puncture needle is longer and seems sharper, making it easier to pass through severely fibrotic liver parenchyma and reach the portal vein.” Dr. D’Souza is an interventional radiologist at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Tom Younker, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing at Argon Medical, stated in the press release, “The number of TIPS procedures performed worldwide is increasing as the incidence of liver cirrhosis grows. The advantages offered by our Traveler products may make these procedures more efficient for the interventional radiologists performing them and the patients they serve.”

Traveler is the first of multiple new product launches expected from Argon Medical in 2023, advised the company.