CUPERTINO, Calif., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- CardioThoracic Systems, Inc.,
(CTS), (Nasdaq: CTSI), a pioneer in beating heart bypass surgery, today
announced the launch of ten new products that further diversify its position
in the minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) market.  At next week's
Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) meeting in San Antonio, Texas, the company
will introduce its fifth generation off-pump beating heart bypass system and
its first stopped heart system, along with eight additional products used to
perform a full range of MICS procedures.
    The CTS(R) Access Ultima(TM) System is designed to provide ultimate access
and stabilization for complete revascularization on a beating heart.  The
system optimizes the surgeon's ability to perform multi-vessel, off-pump
coronary artery bypass (OPCAB(TM) Procedure) through a mid-sternal incision.
The CTS Access Ultima System incorporates features derived from the combined
experience of over 25,000 beating heart bypass procedures performed with CTS
products.  The new platform is equipped with a rail system that provides quick
access to virtually any location on the heart.  A stabilizer mount functions
as a mechanical "wrist" by providing multiple degrees of manipulation.  This
enables easy positioning of the stabilizer shaft and foot to steady the target
artery during beating heart bypass surgery.  The platform also features
pericardial suture holders that organize the surgical working space by
sequencing and holding sutures.
    The CTS Aurora(TM) MultiTrac System is designed to provide flexibility,
organization and increased productivity during less invasive valve surgery
(LIVS(TM) Procedures), which require stopping the heart.  The system makes it
easier for surgeons to perform valve replacement and repair through a small
incision.
    Similar to the CTS Access Ultima System, the CTS Aurora MultiTrac System
features a multi-use drive mechanism and a platform equipped with suture
holders to help organize working space.  The CTS Aurora MultiTrac System also
incorporates several tools specifically designed for LIVS Procedures,
including multiple mounts, tissue retractors and a valve retainer.  This
provides flexibility to use multiple accessories simultaneously, and allows
for accurate sizing to patient's anatomy.  These specialty tools may also
reduce the need for a surgical assistant during the procedure.
    "These two new systems represent CTS' ongoing commitment to the
advancement of minimally invasive cardiac surgery," explained Richard Ferrari,
CTS president and CEO.  "The CTS Access Ultima System represents the
cumulative experience of over 25,000 beating heart procedures performed with
CTS equipment.  The enhancements made on this system truly make it the
ultimate solution in off-pump bypass surgery."  He added, "The CTS Aurora
MultiTrac represents the first of many products that we will introduce in the
stopped heart market.  Our engineering efforts in the segment are focused on
developing technology that will enable stopped heart procedures to become less
invasive over time."
    The CTS Aires(TM) CO2 Blower/Mister, an accessory product used during
beating heart procedures, provides controlled delivery of carbon dioxide (CO2)
and saline to improve visibility by clearing away blood while the bypass is
being performed.  It features a low profile, malleable shaft that allows
flexible access to the target artery, and a unique on-handle volume control
that provides precise CO2 and mist delivery.  Commented Ferrari, "This is an
exciting product since almost every beating heart procedure incorporates the
use of a blower or mister.  CTS has once again advanced the technology by
incorporating multiple features into one device."
    The CTS Coronary FloMeter System, another accessory product, is designed
to enable surgeons to confirm and document results during beating heart bypass
and conventional bypass procedures.  The system utilizes a Coronary FloProbe
that is placed on the target vessel to measure intra-operative blood flow.
After the Coronary FloProbe is placed, data is then transmitted to the CTS
Coronary FloMeter where it is interpreted and quantified.  This process helps
prevent reintervention as a result of post-operative complications, thereby
reducing additional costs.
    Also introduced at STS will be a CTS FloCoil(TM) Shunt line extension,
off-set stabilizers and procedural kits.
    "These new products, along with our valve sutures, provide CTS with a
broad and diversified line of products.  As a result, CTS is now in a position
to sell at least one product that can be used in virtually every adult cardiac
surgery case," commented Ferrari.  "Through our own innovation along with
distribution agreements, we intend to broaden our minimally invasive cardiac
surgery line by offering tools that enhance the surgeons ability to offer less
invasive approaches to an increasing number of patients."
    CardioThoracic Systems, Inc., located in Cupertino, Calif., is a leading
developer of proprietary technologies for use in minimally invasive cardiac
surgery.  CTS introduced its first generation system for minimally invasive
beating heart bypass surgery in January 1997.  Since that time, CTS has
shipped over 25,000 beating heart bypass systems.
    This news release contains forward-looking information that involves risks
and uncertainties including uncertainties associated with the success of the
company's development efforts and the capabilities and benefits of the CTS
instrumentation and methods.  Actual results may differ significantly from the
results discussed in the forward-looking statements as a result of those and
other factors, including factors set forth in the company's annual report on
Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 1998,
and the company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q, filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on August 31, 1998.  Copies of the Annual Report on Form
10-K and the company's quarterly report on Form 10Q are available by calling
the company's investor relations department at 408-342-1700.

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