A Medical Device Daily

Boston Scientific (Natick, Massachusetts) yesterday reported receiving European Commission antitrust clearance of its proposed combination with Guidant (Indianapolis).

In addition, it said the commission also cleared the Abbott's proposed acquisition of Guidant's vascular intervention and endovascular businesses by Abbott Laboratories (Abbot Park, Illinois).

Boston Scientific still must received antitrust approval from the FTC to close the deal. That okay is expected following the company's report last week that it had agreed to consent orders resolving all antitrust issues with the FTC. It said that FTC commissioners are reviewing that agreement.

Boston Scientific also repreated its expectation that the merger with Guidant will be concluded “around the middle of April,“ following FTC approval. Boston Scientific and Guidant shareholders voted to approve the combination at special meetings on March 31.