Sorin Group (BIT:SRN) reported flat sales but strong profit growth for 2011, saying it raised earnings by 48.3% and revealing that the cardiac rhythm management slump has made its way across the pond.

The Italian medical device maker posted net income of €58.0 million (~$75.2 million) on sales of €743.4 million (~$963.4 million) for the year ended Dec. 31, 2011. That compares with profits of €39.1 million (~$50.7 million) on sales of €745.8 million (~$966.5 million) during 2010.