Murali Srivathsa, Akura Medical - Innovative Thrombectomy System | LSI USA '25

About this Video

• Video Title: Murali Srivathsa, Akura Medical - Innovative Thrombectomy System | LSI USA '25
• Channel: LSI - Life Science Intelligence™
• Speakers: Murali Srivathsa (CEO of Akura Medical)
• Duration: 00:10:05

Introduction

This video features Murali Srivathsa, CEO of Akura Medical, presenting their innovative thrombectomy system, Katana. The presentation focuses on the system's design, clinical trials, and future commercialization plans. Srivathsa highlights the large, unmet need in treating venous thromboembolism (VTE) and the challenges faced by existing thrombectomy systems.

Key Takeaways

• Katana System Overview: Akura Medical's Katana system is a differentiated, intelligent thrombectomy system designed to address the challenges of clot retrieval, particularly in complex or large-volume clots. It uses high-velocity saline jets to break up clots, a low-profile steerable system for navigation, and a console providing real-time feedback to the physician.
• Clinical Trials and Progress: The Katana system has completed initial clinical trials in Georgia, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic, with positive results showing a 35% reduction in RV/LV ratio and no device-related adverse events. A pivotal IDE trial in the US has begun, and expansion into Europe is underway.
• Manufacturing and Financials: Akura Medical has a vertically integrated manufacturing facility, achieving high yields on disposables and consoles. They have already secured $60 million in funding and are seeking an additional $35 million in Series C funding to support early commercialization.
• Market Opportunity: The presentation emphasizes the significant market opportunity for effective thrombectomy systems, citing a large number of VTE patients in the US and a substantial untapped market internationally.
• Addressing Key Challenges: The Katana system directly addresses challenges in existing thrombectomy systems, including catheter clogging, navigation in complex anatomy, and providing timely, high-quality interoperative feedback.