Abiomed Acquires Exclusive License for Opsens' Optical Sensor Technology

Abiomed, Inc.

, a leading provider of break-through heart support technologies, today announced its acquisition of an exclusive license from collaboration partner Opsens, a leading developer of fiber optic sensors. Through this exclusive licensing agreement, which covers the use of certain optical sensor technology in the field of cardio-circulatory assist devices, Opsens' miniature optical pressure sensors will be integrated into the Impella® heart pump catheters to help further automate the control and operation of the Impella device in the catheterization lab. "Abiomed is committed to providing continuous enhancements to our Impella platform to help our customers strive to achieve optimal patient outcomes," said Michael R. Minogue, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Abiomed. "This exclusive licensing agreement between the Opsens and Impella technologies offers the ability to understand the role of myocardial unloading and wall tension, as well as the impact of recovery under a future 'smart' pumping algorithm." This licensing agreement, which secures Abiomed's rights to the technology and gives Abiomed the right to manufacture the sensors, is a continuation of an initial collaboration, entered into between Opsens and Abiomed in 2010.