The Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS) has selected Starion Instruments' MiSeal reposable thermal ligating system as one of its 2011 Innovations of the Year. The award was presented at the opening ceremony of the 20th SLS Anniversary Meeting and Endo Expo, Sept 14, in Los Angeles.

Launched in March 2011, Starion's MiSeal is the first and only reposable device that simultaneously seals and divides soft tissue and vessels using direct thermal energy, offering surgeons the ability to achieve exceptional patient outcomes at a considerable cost advantage. MiSeal is comprised of a reusable handpiece and a disposable tip. Because it is reposable, MiSeal offers cost-effective, ecofriendly benefits compared with fully disposable devices because it can reduce the disposal cost of biohazardous waste.

This marks the third time that one of Starion's products has been chosen for this prestigious award, which recognizes the most innovative products of the past year that have a multidisciplinary application in minimally invasive surgery. Starion's TLS2 and TLS3 thermal ligating shears were selected by SLS as an Innovation of the Year in 2004 and 2007, respectively. MiSeal, TLS2, and TLS3 feature the company’s proprietary tissue welding technology, which employs direct thermal energy and focused pressure to create a high-integrity seal and a clean division, while minimizing the risk of collateral tissue damage.

"We are greatly honored for SLS to once again recognize Starion's contributions to the field of minimally invasive surgery," says Kirt Kirtland, general manager of Starion Instruments. "Winning this award for the third time is a testament to the strength of our core technology and the quality of our products."