Birtcher Gets OK to Sell New Line of Surgical Tools

Birtcher Medical Systems Inc., the surgical products manufacturer, received permission on Wednesday to market its “SureClean” line of surgical instruments.

The go-ahead from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration prompted the Irvine company’s stock to surge 50 cents a share in Nasdaq trading, closing at $4.375 a share.

The new product line is targeted for minimally invasive surgery--where there are fewer cuts--and is designed to cut down on surgeon hand fatigue. A new design allows each instrument to be easily taken apart for easier cleaning and sterilization.

Sales of the product line are expected to significantly boost third-quarter revenues, the company said.

Birtcher develops, manufactures and markets medical products for hospital operating rooms, surgery centers and doctors’ offices worldwide.