Medtronic studies show SmartShock Technology benefits

Medtronic has announced results from two new clinical studies that have highlighted the treatment benefits associated with the SmartShock Technology featured in many of its implantable cardiac devices.

New results from the PainFree SST and Shock-Less clinical studies have showed that these devices can help physicians deliver life-saving therapy, while avoiding inappropriate and unnecessary shocks.

The PainFree SST study data revealed that the rate of inappropriate shocks for patients with SmartShock Technology was 1.5 percent with a dual/triple chamber defibrillator and 2.5 percent for single chamber implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) at one year after implantation.

Meanwhile, the Shock-Less study showed that patients had better outcomes when their clinicians received guideline-based programming recommendations and periodic programming compliance reports prior to ICD implants.

Dr Marshall Stanton, vice-president and general manager of the tachycardia business at Medtronic, said: "These innovations ensure that shocks are delivered only when needed to save lives, offering peace of mind for patients and physicians, and reducing costs to the healthcare system."

This comes after the company reported data last week showing how its CoreValve System can benefit aortic stenosis patients with prior coronary bypass surgery.