Bard Sells Intra-Aortic Balloon Line to Arrow

Arrow International Inc. will purchase the global intra-aortic balloon catheter and pump business of C.R. Bard Inc. for $28 million.

Annual sales of Bard's intra-aortic balloon products are approximately $14 million. After the purchase, Arrow's current annual rate of intra-aortic balloon products sales will approximate 25% of the estimated worldwide market of $140 million.

Arrow is currently developing of a fully implanted left ventricular device for patients with end-stage heart failure. This patient population is treated by the same physician group that is the primary user of intra-aortic balloon products. The company is also conducting research in the use of microwave energy to eliminate arrhythmias that compromise heart function.