Masimo (MASI) recently announced the limited international release of Masimo Pronto-7, which measures hemoglobin in less than a minute through non-invasive means. Under Masimo’s limited release program, select medical practitioners, ex-US, will utilize this point-of-care hemoglobin testing device.
 
Measurement of hemoglobin is frequently required to assess anemia and blood loss. Traditional lab testing for hemoglobin involves a withdrawal of blood from the patient followed by a time lag before results are available for the doctor. The Pronto-7, on the other hand, will render unnecessary the use of needles, lab analysis, patient discomfort, possibility of blood contamination and handling of biomedical waste.
 
The Pronto-7 integrates Masimo’s Rainbow 4D technology, which will provide quick and precise spot measurement of total hemoglobin (SpHb) and pulse rate. It is expected that the Pronto-7 will add value to Masimo’s Rainbow technology, already being used by medical practitioners to determine hemoglobin and internal bleeding, as well as facilitate management of blood transfusion.     
 
The hand-held Pronto-7 is appropriately designed with convenient measurement parameters and a weight of about 296 grams. It will seamlessly integrate with electronic health record systems.       
 
Anemia or a low hemoglobin level is a common blood disorder. According to the World Health Organization, anemia globally afflicts about 2 billion people and leads to approximately 1 million deaths every year. It is among the top ten risk factors leading to incidence of disease and negatively impacts the global gross domestic output by an estimated $50 billion.
 
Anemia may either be in chronic or acute state. In acute anemia, the patient experiences a sudden decline in hemoglobin levels due to loss of blood following surgery or trauma. In chronic anemia, on the other hand, hemoglobin levels are at a low level due to illness or dietary deficiency.    
 
The Pronto-7 is expected to receive CE Mark approval. Following its limited overseas release, it will be available with Masimo’s sales teams and distributors in Asia, Europe, Canada, South America and Australia.  
 
We currently have a Neutral rating on Masimo. 
Read the full analyst report on “MASI”
Zacks Investment Research