Medtronic's First Soft-Tissue Robotic Surgery Is in the Books

Medtronic said the first patient procedure performed with the Hugo robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) system was a robotic prostatectomy performed June 19 by Ruben Olivares, MD, at Clínica Santa Maria in Santiago, Chile. The procedure marks the beginning of the Hugo RAS system patient registry, which will collect clinical data to support regulatory submissions around the world.

Boston Scientific Gains a Competitive Edge in the EP Market

Boston Scientific said it will acquire the remaining shares of Farapulse, which the company inked an investment agreement with last year. Farapulse has developed a pulsed field ablation (PFA) system, which received breakthrough designation in May 2019. Farapulse already has a CE mark for the PFA system, and is currently enrolling patients in a U.S. pivotal trial. The device – comprising a sheath, generator, and catheters – is intended to ablate heart tissue via the creation of a therapeutic electric field instead of using thermal energy sources such as radiofrequency ablation or cryoablation.

Leadership Shakeup on the Horizon for Two Prominent Players

Integra Lifesciences President and CEO Peter Arduini will step down at the end of the year to take the helm at GE Healthcare. Kieran Murphy, GE Healthcare’s current president and CEO, is planning to retire from the role.

And in case you missed our last Medtech in a Minute report...

Philips Recalls Millions of Breathing Devices

Philips is recalling some of its ventilators and sleep apnea machines because the foam used to dampen the machines’ sound can degrade and emit small particles that irritate airways. Gases released by the degrading foam may also be toxic or carry cancer risks. The recall is expected to impact between 3 million and 4 million devices.

Neovasc Halts Tiara TF Program and Slashes Workforce

Neovasc is pausing its Tiara transfemoral (TF) mitral valve replacement program and cutting its headcount by 40%. The company said it would instead focus on its core Reducer and Tiara TA (transatrial) valve. Neovasc said a decision on the potential European approval of the Tiara TA is expected during the second half of 2022.

Hologic Wraps up Yet Another Acquisition

Hologic has closed on its Mobidiag Oy acquisition, a deal valued at $808 million. The company has announced four acquisitions this year, taking advantage of more cash on hand than usual due to strong COVID-19 testing sales.