Dornier MedTech announces the support of two physician organizations for high-energy shock wave therapy

KENNESAW, GEORGIA, USA – JANUARY 8, 2004 – Dornier MedTech, Inc., the inventor of extracorporeal shock wave technology, announces that the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) and the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) have released a combined policy supporting the use of extracorporeal shock waves for the treatment of plantar fasciitis. The policy was summarized by stating, “Based on a thorough review of the literature, ESWT appears to be an efficacious, FDA-approved non-surgical option in the treatment of chronic proximal plantar fasciitis.”

The Epos Ultra is Dornier MedTech’s orthopedic shock wave device. The technology was based around extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy, a technology invented by Dornier, which revolutionized the treatment of kidney stones in the early 1980s. The Epos Ultra uses high-energy, extra-corporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has been used since the early 1990s to treat cases of plantar fasciitis. Studies show that complications associated with ESWT are minimal compared to that of open surgical procedures, which can be up to 20%. Recovery time is also substantially shorter with ESWT as compared to traditional heel surgery.

Brian Walsh, President, Dornier MedTech America commented, “We feel this endorsement from the APMA and ACFAS strongly supports extracorporeal shock waves as an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis. We are encouraged that wide acceptance is immanent which will be to the benefit of both the patients and the medical community.”

Dornier MedTech, (www.dornier.com) is a privately held company headquartered in Munich, Germany. Specializing in lithotripters, urotables, orthopedic shockwave devices and medical-aesthetic lasers. Dornier has operating units and service partners throughout the world. For more information call
Dornier MedTech America, Inc.
1155 Roberts Blvd.
Kennesaw, GA 30144
USA
Phone: 800-367-6437
Fax: 770-426-6115
Email: info@dornier.com