SKILLMAN, New Jersey, August 24, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- ConvaTec, a world-leading developer and marketer of innovative medical technologies for community and hospital care, announced today that the Vitala(TM) Continence Control Device (CCD), the company's novel, non-invasive pouchless ostomy device that provides temporary continence for people with an end colostomy, has been CE Marked, in accordance with the European Union Medical Devices Directive, for a 12-hour daily wear time with a convex skin barrier.

The Vitala(TM) CCD allows individuals to manage their colostomy without a pouch, belt or irrigation. Indicated for use up to 12 hours daily, Vitala(TM) CCD is a single-use, disposable, disc-shaped device which is worn together with the ConvaTec Natura(R) skin barrier (flat, convex or with convex inserts, sized 45mm or 57mm).

Currently available in the Netherlands and Czech Republic, Vitala(TM) CCD is being introduced in additional European markets by the end of 2010. Vitala(TM) CCD will be previewed to U.K. healthcare professionals at the upcoming WCET Conference in Bournemouth from September 27 - 29, 2010, where ConvaTec also will host a symposium on nurse and patient experiences with Vitala(TM) CCD on September 27 at 3:00 p.m.

This innovative pouchless ostomy device functions by sealing against the stoma to prevent the uncontrolled release of stool while permitting gasses to vent through an integrated, deodorizing filter. When in use, stool is stored inside the body, negating the need to wear an ostomy pouch. The unique design of Vitala(TM) CCD not only eliminates the need for a pouch for an extended period of time each day, it also minimizes the noise and odors that occasionally accompany pouch use. The discreet low profile device also helps make the presence of an ostomy less noticeable.

A significant number of people with a colostomy require a convex skin barrier, so it was imperative for ConvaTec to ensure that they will also be able to benefit from this breakthrough technology and the temporary continence it provides, said Nino Pionati, President, Global Marketing and Business Development. With this expanded indication, Vitala(TM) CCD will be able to give individuals with a colostomy the regained control, confidence and freedom this technology makes possible.

Vitala(TM) CCD is recommended for use a minimum of 6 weeks after surgery. Full product use information is available in the package insert. Easy to apply and remove, the Vitala(TM) CCD contains a built-in expandable container to prevent soiling and odor during the removal process. Vitala(TM) CCD is also waterproof, so it can be worn when bathing, showering or swimming.

For more information about Vitala(TM) CCD, please contact the ConvaTec customer information center.

About ConvaTec

ConvaTec is a leading developer and marketer of innovative medical technologies that have helped improve the lives of millions of people worldwide. With four key focus areas - Ostomy Care, Wound Therapeutics, Continence and Critical Care and Infusion Devices - ConvaTec products support healthcare professionals from the hospital to the community health setting. From its operational headquarters in Skillman, New Jersey, the company conducts business in over 90 countries serving consumers and their health care professionals on six continents. For more information, please visit http://www.convatec.com.

Vitala is a trademark of ConvaTec Inc.

Natura is a registered trademark of ConvaTec Inc.

(c) 2010 ConvaTec Inc. AP-010301-MM [EM] Contact Punnie Donohue ConvaTec +1-908-904-2151 punnie.donohue@convatec.com Etanjalie Ayala Weber Shandwick +1-212-445-8225 eayala@webershandwick.com

SOURCE: ConvaTec

CONTACT: Punnie Donohue of ConvaTec, +1-908-904-2151,punnie.donohue@convatec.com; or Etanjalie Ayala of Weber Shandwick,+1-212-445-8225, eayala@webershandwick.com