FRANKLIN, Mass., March 25 -- PLC Systems Inc. has renewed its distribution agreement in Japan with Imatron Japan Inc., which includes a commitment to purchase a minimum of five Heart Laser systems during 1999. Imatron Japan Inc. also distributes medical equipment in Japan for Imatron, Inc., a US-based manufacturer of diagnostic imaging equipment. Between 1995 and 1997, Imatron Japan Inc. purchased 12 Heart Laser systems from PLC to conduct clinical studies in Japan.PLC has hired Hiroshi Nikko to support Imatron'sdevelopment of the Japanese market. Prior to joining PLC, Nikko worked for Nissho Corp., which distributes the left ventricle assist systems developed by Thermo Cardiosystems and manufactures a hemodialysis filter.