Artificial artery firm wins award

The artificial artery contains a biological heart valve

The creators of combined artificial artery and heart valve have been recognised with a national award.

Vascutek Ltd, based in Renfrewshire, received the Queen's Award for Enterprise in the innovation category for the surgical implant BioValsalva.

It is used to replace the aorta, the main artery from the heart, and contains a biological heart valve.

Vascutek said this was unique as it simplified the procedure and reduced the chances of internal bleeding.

The Queens Award for Enterprise recognises companies that have demonstrated commercial success through innovative products or services.

Vascutek is a subsidiary of the Terumo Corporation of Japan, and has bases at Inchinnan Business Park, near Glasgow airport, and Leeds.