CRH Medical (Vancouver, British Columbia) reported that it filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office a new U.S. patent application entitled, "Elastic Band Ligation Device and Method for Treatment of Hemorrhoids." The company intends to file corresponding patent applications in important markets throughout the world.

The company currently has patent protection in several countries covering its core technology and related treatment methods. The new patent application includes a number of improvements that increase the efficiency of its technology and is expected to extend the company's patent protection through 2028.

Commenting on the new patent application, Edward Wright, CEO said, "To date, we have successfully treated over 50,000 patients in the United States with our proprietary technology. This new patent application represents our commitment to providing patients with the most advanced hemorrhoid treatment technology and methods available. As we broaden our scope of intellectual property, we can also explore the possibility of expanding into certain international markets. Although in the near term we will continue to concentrate solely on the U.S. market employing our current business model, our strong proprietary position affords us the opportunity to consider alternative distribution strategies in other countries."

CRH Medical said it is using the first single use, patented, disposable, hemorrhoid-banding system through its Center for Colorectal Health facilities.

According to the National Institute of Health, nearly 50% of the U.S. population will develop hemorrhoids by age 50. CRH Medical is opening its Center for Colorectal Health facilities in the U.S. specializing in the treatment of hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and colon cancer screening and plans to significantly increase the number of Centers for Colorectal Health across the U.S.