Medtronic plc - MDT STOCK NEWS

Medtronic has received FDA clearance for the GI Genius™ module, the first AI-driven system for detecting colorectal polyps during colonoscopies. This innovative technology enhances polyp detection rates, potentially impacting over 19 million colonoscopies performed annually in the U.S. Studies indicate that using GI Genius can lead to a 14% increase in adenoma detection rates, significantly improving early cancer detection and patient outcomes. Medtronic aims to reduce colorectal cancer risks by integrating AI into gastroenterology practices, further solidifying its leadership in medical technology.

Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) announced its commitment to health equity for individuals of color living with diabetes, revealing plans to invest $1 million in partnerships with the American Diabetes Association and T1D Exchange over the next three years. The initiatives include the Health Equity Now project to improve access to diabetes technology and a quality improvement pilot program to enhance tech adoption among minorities. Additionally, Medtronic is supporting an NIH-funded research study focused on blood glucose management among African American youth, utilizing its advanced insulin pump technology.

Medtronic Foundation and Children's HeartLink have launched a $2.5 million partnership aimed at improving pediatric heart care in underserved regions of Brazil, India, and China. Over three years, the initiative will enhance hospital capacity, train 10,000 health workers, and provide care for 10,000 children suffering from congenital heart disease. This collaboration seeks to address health disparities and improve outcomes by utilizing both financial and human resources effectively, while honoring former Medtronic chairman Omar Ishrak's legacy.

Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) announced FDA approval for its Harmony™ Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve (TPV), a minimally invasive treatment for congenital heart defects affecting blood flow from the heart to the lungs. The Harmony TPV, designated as a Breakthrough Therapy, aims to replace the need for open-heart surgeries in patients with right ventricular outflow tract disruptions. Clinical data indicated excellent safety and effectiveness, with no significant reinterventions at six months. This device expands access to transcatheter technology for a broader range of congenital heart disease patients.

Medtronic has received the CE Mark for its SenSight™ directional lead system, enhancing Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) therapy for movement disorders and epilepsy. This innovative system incorporates built-in sensing capabilities and works with Medtronic's Percept™ PC neurostimulator to enhance patient-specific therapy. Initial implantations took place in March 2021, with a full European launch anticipated soon. Medtronic has a long-standing commitment to advancing DBS technology, having implanted over 175,000 devices globally since 1987.

Medtronic plc (NYSE: MDT) announced the FDA's approval of revised commercial labeling for its Intellis™ Platform, showcasing the efficacy of Differential Target Multiplexed (DTM™) programming in treating chronic back pain. A randomized control trial revealed that 80% of patients using DTM SCS experienced over 50% back pain relief after three months, compared to 51% with conventional SCS. At twelve months, 84% reported significant pain relief with DTM SCS. This update strengthens Medtronic's credibility in pain management solutions.

Medtronic plc (NYSE: MDT) announced a cash dividend of $0.58 per ordinary share for Q4 FY 2021, a 7.4% increase from the previous year, reflecting its commitment to returning value to shareholders. This dividend is payable on April 16, 2021, to shareholders on record by March 26, 2021. Medtronic continues to be a part of the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats index, having increased its annual dividends for 43 consecutive years. The announcement aligns with prior communications made in May 2020.

Medtronic plc (NYSE: MDT) has commenced its pivotal trial for the PulseSelect™ Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System, aimed at treating atrial fibrillation (AF). The trial, known as PULSED AF, is the first global study with investigational device exemption approval, assessing safety and efficacy across up to 500 patients in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia. PulseSelect employs a non-thermal approach to disrupt irregular heart rhythms, potentially reducing damage to surrounding tissues. Preliminary results from pilot studies showed promising efficacy with no procedural complications.

Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) has released new findings from the REVERSE trial, demonstrating the long-term benefits of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) for patients with mild heart failure. The study indicates that patients who stabilize with CRT have similar longevity to those who improve, with five-year mortality rates at 10% for improved/stabilized patients versus 21% for worsened cases. The trial involved 406 patients, revealing a 73% lower risk of dying for CRT patients who stabilized compared to those whose condition worsened. The results emphasize the need for redefining CRT response classifications.