March 25, 2009 AorTech Names New Chief Operating Officer

March 25, 2009

AorTech International plc (AIM: AOR) the biomaterials and medical device development company, today announces the appointment of Dr. Ian Griffiths as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining AorTech, Dr. Griffiths has had 15 years of high-level biomaterials experience in leading companies, most recently as the founding CEO of PolyNovo, a developer of biodegradable polymers.

"I am delighted to have Dr. Griffiths on board during this period of growth for AorTech. His expertise will be a key asset as we expand our product portfolio and regional presence," said Frank Maguire, AorTech Chief Executive Officer. "Dr. Griffiths’ primary responsibilities will include defining and directing global commercial strategy and outside U.S. sales, as well as managing the business development function."

AorTech develops and manufactures medical use materials, including Elast-Eon, the world’s leading long-term implantable copolymer. With more than one million long-term human implants, Elast-Eon is currently used in cardiology, orthopedic, urologic and gastroenterologic applications, including pacing leads, cardiac cannulae and stents. Devices manufactured from Elast-Eon have multiple US FDA PMA approvals, CE Marks, Japanese Ministry of Health and Australian TGA approval. AorTech operates a 22,000 square foot global manufacturing and distribution center certified to ISO 9001 and ISO 1345 located in Melbourne, Australia.

Elast-Eon’s biostability is comparable to silicone while exhibiting excellent mechanical, blood contacting and flex-fatigue properties. It can be processed using conventional thermoplastic extrusion and molding techniques. AorTech provides a range of materials in a variety of application-specific formulations for use in medical devices and components.