Gore to Acquire Conformal Medical, Expanding its Presence in Endovascular Treatments

WL Gore & Associates Inc. The transaction is expected to close in early 2026, subject to regulatory approval.

“The groundbreaking CLAAS AcuFORM system represents the kind of transformative, scientific innovation that reflects our long-term commitment to improving patient care,” said Bret Snyder, Chairman and CEO of WL Gore & Associates. “It is an ideal fit with our endovascular portfolio and a strong addition to our existing cardiac products. As a privately held company founded on scientific innovation, Gore continues to envision opportunities and partnerships that expand our ability to improve lives through the work of all our businesses, including expanding our ability to serve clients and improve patient outcomes.

The research conformal CLAAS AcuFORM system features a nitinol endoskeleton with a proprietary foam matrix implant designed to accommodate a wider range of left atrial appendage (LAA) anatomies with fewer sizes. Designed in two sizes, the device has the potential to transform LAAO into a same-day procedure, moving clinical practice away from general anesthesia and overnight hospitalizations. The research CLAAS AcuFORM System is currently in clinical testing and not available for commercial use.

LAAO is a one-time procedure for patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib) that aims to reduce the risk of stroke-causing blood clots forming in the LAA and eliminate the need for long-term daily oral anticoagulant therapy. AFib is projected to reach more than 12 million cases in the US by 2030, according to the American Heart Association.

The acquisition advances Gore's expansion into adjacent endovascular treatments and reflects the company's long-term commitment to developing and investing in breakthrough medical technologies. Gore has developed several innovations over the past 50 years in its cardiac, vascular and surgical solutions portfolios.

“We are pleased to join forces with a partner that reflects our belief that the research CLAAS AcuFORM device can prove a transformative solution for stroke prevention. Our stakeholders will realize the value of this partnership as we bring this therapy through the clinical and regulatory process and ultimately make it available to patients worldwide,” said Conformal Medical President and CEO James Reinstein. “This partnership combines Conformal's deep expertise in LAAO with Gore's world-class capabilities in technology development, distribution and operations. It will enable us to leverage Gore's global presence, and accelerate our mission to shape the future of stroke prevention.” FBN

Thanks to photo: WL Gore & Associates expands endovascular portfolio with a strong addition to its existing cardiac products.