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Briefs

May 1, 2016

3M Launches Intelligent Inhaler

3M Drug Delivery Systems has introduced its 3M Intelligent Control inhaler, which delivers on-screen guidelines and feedback to patients via a mobile application. The device also features a data management system to record usage and patient profiles. As a fully integrated device, the dose gets registered when the patient correctly inhales medication, reducing errors. The inhaler will be developed in partnership with an undisclosed pharmaceutical company.

Stryker Picks Up BD’s VCF Portfolio

Stryker has finalized its acquisition of Becton, Dickinson and Company’s CareFusion vertebral compression fracture portfolio. The BD subsidiary’s portfolio of minimally invasive vertebroplasty and vertebral augmentation solutions will strengthen Stryker’s position in neurotechnology, according to the company. The acquisition is an all-cash transaction.

Zimmer Biomet to Acquire Cayenne Medical

Zimmer Biomet has entered an agreement to acquire Cayenne Medical for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition will expand Zimmer’s existing sports medicine portfolio of soft tissue reconstruction products for the knee, shoulder and extremities. The transaction is expected to be finalized during the second quarter and is subject to customary conditions.

FDA Approves Boston Scientific’s MRI System

Boston Scientific has scored FDA approval for its ImageReady MR-Conditional pacing system for treating bradycardia. The approval — which was based on two global clinical trials — covers the ACCOLADE MRI and ESSENTIO MRI pacemakers and INGEVITY MRI pacing leads. This marks the first time a passive fixation pacing lead has been approved in the U.S. for patients undergoing MR scans, according to the company.

Pinnacle’s InFill Technology Wins Chinese Patent

The Chinese Patent Office has issued a patent that covers Pinnacle Spine Group’s InFill fusion technology. The InFill fusion systems include a number of interbody fusion devices the company says allow for easier insertion. Pinnacle is a Dallas, Texas-based devicemaker focused on technologies for spinal fusion surgeries.

Medtronic Releases Data for VenaSeal

Medtronic has revealed positive data for its VenaSeal closure system, which is designed for the treatment of symptomatic venous reflux. Results show complete closure of the great saphenous vein in 94.3 percent of patients receiving treatment with the VenaSeal system. The system minimizes the risk of nerve damage often related to thermal-based procedures and reduces the need for multiple needle sticks, the company says.

AtriCure Secures FDA Clearance for AtriClip

The FDA has granted 510(k) clearance to AtriCure’s AtriClip PRO2 left atrial appendage exclusion system for the occlusion of the LAA during minimally invasive procedures. The device features an “ambidextrous locking and trigger-style clip” designed to allow surgeons to focus on the LAA while steering the device. AtriCure is based in Mason, Ohio and specializes in atrial fibrillation products.