Medtronic stimulates neuro investments
This article was originally published in The Gray Sheet
Executive Summary
Firm plans to vitalize its neurological and urological therapies business with major investments in clinical trials. At least six trials, including for its Kinetra and Soletra neurostimulation systems to treat depression and obsessive compulsive disorder, are expected to be underway by fall of 2007, Medtronic announced April 24. The studies, some of which will be IDE trials for new or more specific product indications, and all of which will include cost-effectiveness analyses, are intended to bolster efficacy data to spur physician adoption and payor acceptance, said Richard Kuntz, MD, president of Medtronic's neurological business. Kuntz, with clinical trial expertise from the Harvard Clinical Research Institute, was brought on board in October to help Medtronic make headway in the under-penetrated neurostimulation market...