Boston Scientific partners with Blackstone in $455M deal

Boston Scientific Corporation and Blackstone Life Sciences announced a major $455 million collaboration agreement to co-fund the development of an advanced cardiovascular device program. Company officials said that the partnership centers on the VITALYST Temporary Percutaneous Transvalvular Circulatory Support System, representing a substantial financial commitment to next-generation medical technology.

The VITALYST system functions as a next-generation, miniature heart pump intended to increase cardiac output and improve blood flow from the heart to the brain and other vital organs. Medical specialists designed the device specifically to address acute myocardial infarction cardiogenic shock, which is a severe and life-threatening medical emergency where the heart cannot pump enough blood to supply organs with necessary oxygen.

Cardiogenic shock resulting from heart attacks or other cardiac issues is associated with significant mortality rates despite ongoing advances in medical treatment. The new miniature pump is being developed to address the core unmet needs of critically ill patients, with a primary focus on improving efficacy, safety, and ease of use for physicians administering care.

Nicholas Galakatos, global head of Blackstone Life Sciences, said that Boston Scientific has built a leading cardiovascular franchise with deep expertise in developing transformative technologies for patients and physicians. Galakatos said that the VITALYST system holds the potential to improve upon the efficacy and safety of currently available mechanical circulatory support technologies.

Representatives from both organizations confirmed that this agreement marks the first time Blackstone Life Sciences will co-fund the development of a Boston Scientific product. Legal advisors from Ropes and Gray supported the transaction, which combines large-scale investments and hands-on operational leadership to advance critical life science solutions for vulnerable patients.

Ropes and Gray served as legal counsel for Blackstone Life Sciences during the negotiation and finalization of the multi-million dollar agreement.