INDUSTRY/Medical NEWS                Oct. 1, 2005

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Quinton Merges with Cardiac Science

By Jon Brubaker, MD Buyline Clinical Analyst 
 

Quinton Cardiology Systems and Cardiac Science announced the completion of their merger on September 1, 2005.  Quinton, a long time leader in the cardiac stress test arena, markets a cardiology product line that includes stress test products, Holter monitor technology, and ECG and ECG management technology, as well as cardiac rehabilitation telemetry technology.  Cardiac Science is a provider of life-saving automated external defibrillators (AEDs).  The combined company is called Cardiac Science Corporation.  
 

In the announcement, Cardiac Science Corporation President and CEO and former Quinton CEO, John Hinson stated, "We believe the new company will have enhanced prospects for revenue growth based on our expanded product portfolio and stronger distribution capabilities in both the domestic and international markets."  The new corporation's strategic plans are to leverage the combined managerial, operational, and technological strengths of the combined companies to become a global leader in the development, manufacturing and marketing of a broad range of life-saving cardiology products and services under well-known brand names.  This includes Quinton, Burdick and Powerheart.  The company will focus entirely on developing and distributing technology to address heart disease.   
 

Results of mergers can take time to demonstrate any positive or negative change but I certainly do not foresee any negative effects of this merger.  The brand name Quinton should continue to carry some weight in cardiology and the products will benefit from increased distribution channels and future technology developments. 
 

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