The FDA has expanded the approved use of rivaroxaban (Xarelto, Janssen Pharmaceuticals) to include treating deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) and to reduce the risk of recurrent DVT and PE following initial treatment.

Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals will pay $95 million to resolve allegations relating to the improper promotion of the stroke-prevention drug Aggrenox, the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) drugs Atrovent and Combivent, and the hypertension drug Micardis (telmisartan), according to the Justice Department.

MIAMI—Percutaneous patent formulae ovale (PFO) closure for secondary prevention of thromboembolism showed no significant reduction in ischemic and bleeding events compared with medical treatment, according to the late-breaking PC trial. However, the stroke reduction led physicians on a panel to be encouraged.

MIAMI—Although the much-anticipated late-breaking RESPECT trial assessing patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure for cryptogenic stroke failed to meet its primary endpoint, physicians on a lively panel discussion Oct. 25 at the Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) conference stressed that the decision-making about the use of this device in patients with previous cryptogenic stroke remains a discussion that physicians and patients need to explore, if the device receives approval.

Taking their cue from the auto industry, a team of physicians applied a process to eliminate inefficiencies in the care of stroke patients that shortened the time-dependent treatment while increasing the percentage of patients who received timely care.

Stryker has signed a definitive agreement to acquire privately held Surpass Medical in an all cash transaction for $100 million and up to an additional $35 million of milestone payments.

AngioDynamics, a developer of medical devices for vascular access, surgery, peripheral vascular disease and oncology, has completed the acquisition of Vortex Medical, a privately held, Norwell, Mass.-based developer of medical devices for venous drainage and the removal of thrombus from occluded blood vessels, for $15 million in cash.

Overall stroke incidence is declining in the U.S., but among younger people the trend may be the opposite. According to one analysis, the average age for a first-ever stroke dropped by two years and the proportion of younger people experiencing strokes grew over time. Changes in the use of diagnostic imaging may explain some of the findings.