Say hello to MassDevice +3, a bite-sized view of the top three medtech stories of the day. This feature of MassDevice.com’s coverage highlights our 3 biggest and most influential stories from the day’s news to make sure you’re up to date on the headlines that continue to shape the medical device industry.
3. Report: Bard’s mesh settlement is worth $21m
The deal between C.R. Bard and a pair of law firms representing 500 plaintiffs in product liability lawsuits brought over its pelvic mesh implants is reportedly worth $21 million.
It’s the 1st time Bard has agreed to settle any of the lawsuits filed over its mesh, which is used to treat female urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Read more
2. 3rd FDA panel vote barely favors Boston Scientific’s Watchman anti-stroke device
An FDA advisory panel offered a mixed view of Boston Scientific’s Watchman heart device today, concluding it is probably safe but not particularly effective in reducing the risk of stroke in patients with a certain type of irregular heart beat.
Despite the lack of likely effectiveness, the panel voted 6-5, with 1 abstention, that the benefits outweigh the risks, with some panelists saying it should be an option for patients. Read more
1. Biomet’s Q1 profits plunge despite sales increases
Biomet today reported a 77% profit slide for its fiscal 1st quarter, despite posting sales gains across its all but 1 line of orthopedic implants.
Warsaw, Ind.-based Biomet logged profits of $7.3 million on sales of $774.8 million for the 3 months ended August 31, for a bottom-line slide of 76.5% on sales growth of 6.0%. Read more