New UNI-LEAD Electrode System Simplifies 12-Lead ECG Acquisition; System to be Marketed by Medtronic Physio-Control.

Business Editors & Health/Medical Writers

REDMOND, Wash. & LAFAYETTE, Calif.--(BW HealthWire)--Nov. 12, 2001

Medtronic Physio-Control and Unilead International jointly announced today the market availability of a new disposable electrode system used for obtaining a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG). The UNI-LEAD(TM) Adult Disposable Precordial ECG Electrode System integrates the six single chest electrodes used to acquire an ECG into one thin, flexible array for ease of application.

The UNI-LEAD system with its patented positioning geometry accommodates the vast majority of adult chest sizes with a single ECG electrode array. When combined with its single cable assembly and connector that eliminate individual precordial lead wires, the UNI-LEAD system speeds electrode application time, and facilitates the acquisition of accurate, reliable and repeatable electrocardiograms.

Jon Tremmel, president of Medtronic Physio-Control noted, "Early diagnosis of heart attacks in the prehospital setting and emergency department is critical to improving patient care and saving lives. The simplicity and accuracy of the UNI-LEAD system eliminates many of the problems now associated with acquiring 12-lead ECG exams. The UNI-LEAD system is the perfect complement to the industry-leading LIFEPAK(R) 12 defibrillator/monitor. With the UNI-LEAD system, Medtronic Physio-Control leads the way once again in its quest to make our communities heart safe."

Approximately 1.5 million 12-lead ECG's are performed in prehospital settings each year in the United States, and, according to the National Center for Health Statistics, more than 14 million are performed in hospital emergency departments. Accuracy and reproducibility are often concerns because of the subjective nature of individual electrode placements, which can vary from one technician to another.

When compared with standard chest leads, the UNI-LEAD system improves the reproducibility of 12-lead ECG recordings by facilitating a more accurate, one-step electrode placement. The UNI-LEAD system also simplifies training by reducing the amount of time needed to teach technicians how to complete a 12-lead exam.

The UNI-LEAD system is now available through Medtronic Physio-Control in most countries.

Unilead International, located in Lafayette, Calif., is a leading developer of proprietary sensor array technology designed to improve the human/instrumentation interface, enhance acquisition of physiological data, and increase the speed and accuracy of electrocardiography. Additional information can be found on the company's website at www.unilead.com.

Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE:MDT), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the world's leading medical technology company, providing lifelong solutions for people with chronic disease. Its Internet address is www.medtronic.com. Medtronic Physio-Control, headquartered in Redmond, Wash., pioneered defibrillation technology nearly 50 years ago and is the world's largest provider of external defibrillators for the treatment of sudden cardiac arrest.

Any statements made regarding Medtronic's anticipated financial results and regulatory approvals are forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties, such as those described in the company's Annual Report on Form 10K for the year ended April 30, 2001. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.