Defibrillator market faces problems

The Guidant deal has transformed the market for cardiac defibrillators, yet the future is far from certain for the sector. New powerhouse Boston Scientific must cope with a cooling market for defibrillators in the wake of last year's recalls and the threat of Medicare reimbursement cuts. There is evidence that the problems at Medtronic and Guidant have led many doctors to hold off on recommending the potentially lifesaving technology for patients, or at least adopt a more conservative approach. "Confidence needs to come back up," notes one analyst. Still, less than 15 percent of eligible patients are receiving the devices, suggesting the potential of a market that is currently valued at $6 billion a year.

- see this article from The Wall Street Journal (sub. req.)

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