B. Braun Launches the Stimuplex(R) Pen for Percutaneous Localization of Nerves.

BETHLEHEM, Pa. -- B. Braun, the world leader in regional anesthesia, today announced the launch of the Stimuplex[R] Pen, the newest product offering in its extensive regional anesthesia product line, at the 2007 American Association of Nurse Anesthetists Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado.

A non-invasive percutaneous nerve mapping device, the Stimuplex Pen can help those administering peripheral nerve blocks quickly locate superficial nerves and identify the optimal angle and needle entry point before introducing the needle into the patient. Roy A. Greengrass, M.D., Associate Professor of Anesthesiology at the Mayo Clinic used the Stimuplex Pen, saying, "The ability of the Stimuplex Pen to quickly localize nerves important in the surgical field will enhance nerve block efficiency and thus make performance of regional anesthesia more attractive, particularly in rapid turnover environments."

Tim Richards, B. Braun Senior VP of US Marketing added, "We are able to provide an instrument that will not only be cost-effective but will enhance the efficiency of administering regional anesthesia while reducing patient discomfort associated with repeated needle manipulation," said Richards, "It is also thought that this will be an excellent training tool for anesthesia providers to refine peripheral nerve block technique and increase their confidence."

David Gleason, CRNA at Duke University Medical Center, and Coordinator of the AANA Upper Extremity Nerve Block workshop in Denver was impressed with the simplicity of the device. "Stimuplex Pen added a new realistic dimension to this year's upper extremity workshop with the ability to elicit motor responses similar to using insulated needles while performing a peripheral nerve block," stated Gleason.

The Stimuplex Pen focuses a very small current from a Stimuplex HNS 11 or HNS 12 nerve stimulator, and can have an incremental benefit when used in combination with ultrasound-guided nerve technology. It can be used to identify nerves up to 3cm in depth and is effective in localizing the musculocutaneous, femoral, ulnar, radial and median nerves for interscalene, axillary, mid-humeral, wrist and femoral nerve blocks.

About B. Braun

Since its founding in 1839, B. Braun, has built an unparalleled store of knowledge and expertise in delivering innovative healthcare products, medical devices and programs that enhance working processes in hospitals, alternate care settings and medical practices--increasing safety for patients, doctors and nurses. Its 34,000 employees worldwide are proud of their commitment to translating customer needs into products with unmatched quality, superior technology, cost-effectiveness and environmental responsibility.

Through its "Sharing Expertise[R]" initiative, B. Braun promotes best practices for continuous improvement of healthcare products and services. For more information about B. Braun or its safety healthcare products, call 800-854-6851, email us at [e-mail] or visit B. Braun at www.bbraunusa.com