Transforming the Way Ascites Is Treated
Distribute ARCA®
Join our authorized distributor network and be part of the change
ARCA® is an innovative medical solution developed by Laboratorios Vertex, designed to transform how ascites is managed in patients with advanced liver disease and other chronic conditions. This fully implantable, manual drainage system is improving patient quality of life across various regions and we are expanding.
We’re looking for motivated, health-focused medical device distributors who want to bring this unique product to new markets and become part of a project with high clinical impact and strong commercial potential.
What we offer
Full technical training and onboarding
Clinical and marketing support
Post-sale guidance and service tools
Access to expert medical advisors
Our Devices
ARCA
ARCA® is a fully implantable, manual medical system made of medical-grade silicone, designed to help patients with ascites safely and independently drain abdominal fluid at home.
ARCA+
ARCA+ is an advanced version of the ARCA® system, designed specifically for women, taking into account key aspects like female anatomy, comfort, and lifestyle.
ARCA
Paracentesis
Other devices
How it works
Manual, based on physical pressure
Invasive, uses needle in a medical setting
Electronic, subcutaneous automatic pump
Implantation
Subcutaneous implant made of medical-grade silicone
No implant required
Requires surgical implant and electronic programming
Patient autonomy
High: patient can drain on their own at home
None: requires medical staff and hospital setting
Moderate: depends on automation and medical supervision
Home use
Yes, with visual guide on device
No
Partial: requires ongoing monitoring
Frequency of clinical intervention
Low: avoids frequent paracentesis
High: weekly or biweekly hospital visits
Moderate: requires medical check-ups and battery recharging
Infection risk
Low: fewer punctures, no electronic parts
High: risk of peritonitis from repeated needle insertion
Medium-low: risk tied to malfunction or misuse
Requires battery or software
No
No
Yes: requires internal battery, charger, and programming
Drainage indication
Simple visual signal indicates when to drain
Based on symptoms and fluid accumulation
Requires technical monitoring
Relative cost
Moderate
Low per session, but high annual cost
High (device, surgery, technical maintenance)
Accessibility
High: simple solution with no electronics or programming
High, but depends on healthcare system availability
Limited: requires specialized centers and prior authorization
Compatibility with daily life
High: allows travel, restful sleep, and return to routines
Low: limits mobility and overall quality of life
Moderate: improves mobility but depends on technical conditions
Interested in becoming an ARCA® distributor?
Contact us
Frequently Asked Questions About ARCA®
What is ARCA®?
ARCA® is a fully implantable, manual system that allows patients with ascites to safely drain excess abdominal fluid from the comfort of home, on their own.
How does ARCA® work?
The system works through basic physical pressure. The patient manually activates the pump to transfer fluid from the abdominal cavity to the outside of the body through a controlled drainage port.
What are the advantages over paracentesis?
ARCA® eliminates the need for weekly hospital visits, significantly reduces infection risk, and empowers patients with more comfort, freedom, and independence.
Does ARCA® require batteries or charging?
No. ARCA® is completely mechanical. It does not rely on batteries, software, or electronics—making it safer and easier to use.
Can I use ARCA® if I have limited mobility?
Yes. ARCA® is designed to be simple to use, either by the patient or with the help of a caregiver. It requires no strength or complex movements.
Is ARCA® safe?
Yes. It is made of medical-grade silicone and developed under strict safety and quality standards. It also reduces the need for repeated punctures, lowering infection risks.
Does the system tell me when to drain?
Yes. ARCA® includes a visual indicator that lets the patient know when it’s time to activate the drainage process.