65--Award Notice - Epic Mitral Valves

The VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System intends to negotiate on a sole source basis with St Jude Medical Inc, One Lillehei Plaza, St. Paul, MN 55117 for ten (10) Epic Mitral Valves of five (5) different lengths. The requirement is for 2 valves of each length. The lengths of the valves are 25mm, 27mm, 29mm, 31mm, and 33mm. The St. Jude Epic E100 mitral valve contains a patented, proprietary anti-calcification treatment called the Linx AC which is designed to improve long-term performance and valve durability that significantly reduces calcification in four ways. It reduces free aldehydes, extracts lipids, minimizes uptake of cholesterol, and stabilizes leaflet collagen. The triple composite design features three separate porcine leaflets matched to optimize leaflet coaptation and reduce stress. The Unique Pericardial Shield on outflow edge and the flex fit system provides stent deflection and maximizes visibility and access to the cuff. The mitral holder provides improved visibility and cuff access. The valve sizer and system tray have a click in handle and a sizer design that provides the optimum ability to determine the accurate size to ensure proper functionality. This Notice of Intent is NOT a request for competitive proposals. Vendors who wish to identify their interest and ability to provide an alternative item that will meet the capabilities and functionality described above may notify the Contracting Specialist by email, no later than July 27, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. Such notification must include a complete description of the equipment that is required including narrative and capabilities as described above. Responses may be sent to contact@example.gov. Upon receipt of any such notifications, the Contracting Officer will determine whether to conduct a competitive procurement or proceed with sole source negotiations.