Abbott To Restrict Absorb To Registries In Europe For At Least A Year

To resolve questions raised by a recent series of disappointing clinical trial results, Abbott Laboratories Inc. will soon restrict the availability of its Absorb GT1 BVS bioresorbable drug-eluting coronary stent in Europe to clinical registries.

"Effective May 31, 2017 [Absorb] will only be available for use in clinical registry setting at select sites/institutions that will play a pivotal role in the monitoring of this technology until Summer 2018, at which time the situation will be reviewed," the company explains in a letter dated March 31. The letter, addressed to Abbott Vascular customers, is titled "Urgent Safety Notice/Physician Advisory