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Mortara Instrument Introduces Atrial Fibrillation Detection Algorithm

MILWAUKEE, Wis. USA,

21 September 2001

Today Mortara Instrument, Inc. announced the introduction of its advanced atrial fibrillation detection algorithm for the automatic detection and identification of atrial fibrillation episodes. This technology, incorporated in the Mortara H-Scribe Holter system, is now available to aid clinicians in their evaluation and treatment of suspected atrial fibrillation patients.

According to the American Heart Association, atrial fibrillation is a disorder that is found in about 2 million Americans. The fibrillation of the atria can cause blood to pool and collect in the upper chambers of the heart. This blood can then clot, and subsequently find its way from the atria to an artery in the brain resulting in stroke. Approximately 15 percent of strokes occur in people with atrial fibrillation.

David W. Mortara, President and Founder of Mortara Instrument commented about the introduction of this new algorithm, "This algorithm represents a significant step forward for the automatic detection of atrial fibrillation episodes. Used in conjunction with Holter monitoring or in future real-time monitoring applications, the atrial fibrillation algorithm will potentially benefit many patients as new therapies are developed to treat this common disorder."

Automatic detection of atrial fibrillation onset events and subsequent analysis of these events can potentially guide emerging atrial fibrillation therapies, including ablation of the pulmonary vein.

In addition to the newly released atrial fibrillation algorithms, Mortara Instrument's ECG signal processing technologies also include automatic resting interpretation, real-time arrhythmia and ST segment monitoring algorithms.

About Mortara

Mortara Instrument's headquarters are located in Milwaukee, Wis., with European operations based in Bologna, Italy. Mortara Instrument is distinguished in the field of non-invasive cardiology for the innovations that are the core of the company's complete line of ECG products. These product innovations include the integration of 12-lead ECG technology in bedside monitoring, wireless stress testing, Holter and telemetry monitoring systems. The company's web site is www.mortara.com.