MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--American Medical Systems Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMMD - News), a leading provider of world-class devices and therapies for male and female pelvic health, announced today that the company is pleased with yesterday’s U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit’s ruling that reversed a summary judgment and finding for Biolitec, Inc. The Court of Appeals found that a trial judge erred in his interpretation when he ruled last year that Biolitec didn’t infringe the patent.
American Medical Systems (AMS) sued Biolitec in 2007 for violating a patent (the Davenport patent) which claims methods and devices for laser vaporization of prostate and other tissues. The District Court originally granted a summary judgment of noninfringement to defendant Biolitec, stating that the accused device does not perform “photoselective vaporization of tissue.” AMS appealed the order, and because of yesterday’s ruling, the matter will now be sent back to the District Court for further proceedings.
“The Davenport patent is a reflection of AMS’ commitment to innovation in the field of laser therapy,” said Tony Bihl, president and chief executive officer for AMS. “We are pleased with the Court of Appeals’ decision and look forward to further proceedings in the trial court to determine infringement on our Davenport patent.”
About American Medical Systems
American Medical Systems, headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, is a diversified supplier of medical devices and procedures to cure incontinence, erectile dysfunction, benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), pelvic floor repair and other pelvic disorders in men and women. These disorders can significantly diminish one’s quality of life and profoundly affect social relationships. In recent years, the number of people seeking treatment has increased markedly as a result of longer lives, higher-quality-of-life expectations and greater awareness of new treatment alternatives. American Medical Systems’ products reduce or eliminate the incapacitating effects of these diseases, often through minimally invasive therapies. The Company’s products were used to treat approximately 335,000 patients in 2009.
More information about the Company and its products can be found at its website www.AmericanMedicalSystems.com and in the Company’s annual Report on Form 10-K for 2009 and its other SEC filings.
