MassDevice Top Five medtech stories weekCOVID-19 continues to batter medical device companies — not to mention the world as a whole. But some of this week’s top five MassDevice stories demonstrate that medtech companies continue to innovate and ink business deals as they look toward a post-pandemic future.

Want to hear more about the week’s top news? Executive editor Chris Newmarker and Tom Salemi will discuss during our DeviceTalks Weekly podcast. Without further ado, here’s this week’s MassDevice Top Five:

5. Federal appeals court rejects preemption argument from BD’s Bard

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals handed down an important medical device preemption opinion as it affirmed a $3.6 million award against Becton Dickinson & Co. (NYSE:BDX) subsidiary C.R. Bard in a bellwether lawsuit case over inferior vena cava filters. Read the full story. 

4. Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes’ trial to start in March

Ex-Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes’ federal fraud trial will now start in March 2021 amid delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Read the full story. 

3. Medtronic to acquire Companion Medical, expands diabetes business

Medtronic (NYSE:MDT) will acquire insulin pen manufacturer Companion Medical for an undisclosed amount. Companion Medical’s product portfolio includes the InPen FDA-cleared smart insulin pen system that is paired with an integrated diabetes management app on the market. Read the full story. 

2. CooperVision acquires GP Specialists

CooperVision (NYSE:COO) has bought customized orthokeratology contact lens manufacturer and distributor GP Specialists for an undisclosed amount. San Ramon, Calif.-based CooperVision said the acquisition expands its specialty eye care business and its leadership in addressing myopia. Read the full story. 

1. Neurolief wins FDA breakthrough nod for wearable neuromod for depression

Neurolief announced today that it received FDA breakthrough device designation for its Relivion DP system for treating major depression. Netanya, Israel–based Neurolief’s Relivion DP is a headset-like device placed on the head to stimulate the release of neurotransmitters in the brainstem and modulate brain networks associated with control of mood. Read the full story.