First European implants of new Boston Scientific defibrillators

6 March 2008

Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX) has announced the first European implants of its Cognis cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) and Teligen implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD).

Forty implants have been performed in 14 hospitals in six countries. The defibrillators received the CE mark last month and the implants represent the beginning of the market launch in Europe. The Company plans to build to a full launch in Europe and other international markets in the second quarter of this year.

The devices are built on a new technology platform and are the result of a multi-year research and development effort to provide enhanced clinical options.

These include extended battery longevity, self-correcting software and improved programming technology.

"The Cognis CRT-D offers extended battery longevity and several new features that will help me better manage my heart failure patients," said Poul-Erik Bloch-Thomsen, M.D., Gentofte Hospital, Hellerup, Denmark. "For example, the SmartDelay feature recommends programmable device settings, which enable me to tailor individualized pacing therapies."

"The Teligen ICD has comprehensive programming options that address the requirements of both physicians and patients," said Lieselotte van Erven, MD, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands. "The device offers me flexibility for delivering defibrillation to my patients and helps ensure that the right therapy is delivered at the appropriate time."

"These devices are further evidence of our commitment to research and development, and they are the latest indications of how we have refocused our cardiac rhythm management business on the needs of physicians and patients," said Jim Tobin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Boston Scientific.

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