A review of life science current events reported by MedCity News this week:
The top healthcare innovations in 2012? Here are some nominees. Word has it that Cleveland Clinic is gathering nominees from its staff for the best healthcare innovations of 2012: the Top 10 list that’s the cornerstone of the health system’s annual innovations summit. Since they’re asking, MedCity News will get in on the act. Here are some suggestions for notable healthcare innovations for the future.
Infuse furor may force Medtronic spine business sale? Who would buy? Wells Fargo analyst Larry Biegelsen downgraded Medtronic’s stock to market perform in a research note on Tuesday, noting that the negative impact of the Spine Journal articles, which roundly criticized the results of Infuse trials, will have a broader impact on the company. In describing five possible scenarios of what might happen – including an FDA review of Infuse and filing of class action lawsuits – Biegelsen says that Medtronic may decide to sell the entire spinal business.
With the Rise of AI, What IP Disputes in Healthcare Are Likely to Emerge?
Munck Wilson Mandala Partner Greg Howison shared his perspective on some of the legal ramifications around AI, IP, connected devices and the data they generate, in response to emailed questions.
FDA warning letter targets Minnesota medical batteries maker. National Creative Enterprises Inc., based in Burnsville, received the FDA warning letter dated June 24 mainly related to improper quality controls, but also for failing to provide a full annual device listing to the FDA as required since 2007.
Cleveland Clinic heart valve startup gets $3 million investment. Heart valve replacement device maker ValveXchange, a Cleveland Clinic spinoff, has received a $3.5 million equity investment from CryoLife (NYSE: CRY). In addition to the $3.5 million in equity, CryoLife will make $2 million in debt available to ValveXchange, according to a statement from the companies.
Larry Renfro named CEO of health informatics firm Optum. Health insurance company UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH) announced Wednesday that Larry Renfro will take over immediately as chief executive officer of Optum, its health services business platform.
