Medical device company Cook Medical has started the distribution of EnteraSense’s PillSense GI Bleed Detection System in the US.

PillSense is a blood-sensing system designed to detect upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in under 10 minutes.  

US-based Cook Medical offers new technologies, and PillSense joins its range of GI bleed management solutions.

In May 2024, Cook Medical and Ireland-based EnteraSense signed a distribution agreement for PillSense in the US.

The PillSense GI Bleed Detection System helps clinicians efficiently triage and prioritise patients with suspected GI bleeding. It confirms bleeds in haemodynamically stable patients, allowing for better use of healthcare resources.

The system includes a reusable receiver and a single-use ingestible capsule that detects blood in the upper GI tract.

It is also said to be the first US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved ingestible blood detection device. It received FDA clearance in February 2023.

According to Cook Medical, PillSense delivers rapid and accurate results, enabling healthcare providers to identify upper gastrointestinal bleeding in under 10 minutes.

Patients simply swallow the capsule, which transmits data to the handheld receiver, displaying clear and definitive results.

The medical device firm said the device provides fast results, with real-time diagnostics transmitted to the receiver in under 10 minutes.

Furthermore, PillSense is user-friendly, requiring no patient preparation and allowing any healthcare provider to administer it without specialised training.

Cook Medical MedSurg division global marketing director John Devlin said: “On a patient level, PillSense is a revolutionary product that allows for swift diagnosis, enabling prompt and appropriate care.

“It’s also revolutionary on a hospital level, enhancing patient management by enhancing risk stratification and optimising resource allocation.”

Starting in October 2024, Cook Medical will manage sales, marketing, and distribution for the PillSense GI Bleed Detection System across the US.

The partnership allows healthcare providers to access the device through the medical device firm’s network of sales representatives.

It marks the third distribution agreement Cook Medical has established in 2024. Besides, it is part of Cook Medical’s five-year plan to enhance partnerships and diversify its product offerings.

EnteraSense CEO Donal Devery said: “The PillSense GI Bleed Detection System is groundbreaking technology, is addressing a longstanding clinical need and is very synergistic with Cook Medical’s Innovative Hemostasis portfolio.”