The FDA cleared Hyperfine Research Inc.’s advanced image reconstruction technology using deep learning for its portable magnetic resonance imaging device, Swoop. The bedside MRI unit’s artificial intelligence application received clearance in January and is used with deep learning to improve image quality and diagnostic value. Hyperfine and Liminal Sciences Inc., which share a founder in serial entrepreneur Jonathan Rothberg, are both combining with special purpose acquisition company Healthcor Catalio Acquisition Corp. to go public in a deal valued at $580 million. The companies reported on Nov. 29 that the Securities and Exchange Commission declared the registration statement on form S-4 for the combination to be effective and the SPAC’s shareholders will vote on the transaction on Dec. 21.

With Omicron all the COVID-19 buzz right now, the FDA’s concern that the antiviral drug molnupiravir might enhance SARS-CoV-2 evolution might take on added weight when the Antimicrobial Drugs Advisory Committee meets Nov. 30 to advise on Merck & Co. Inc.-Ridgeback Biotherapeutics Inc.’s emergency use authorization (EUA) request for what could be the first take-at-home oral drug authorized to treat COVID-19 infections.

PERTH, Australia – Six classes of medical devices listed on Australia’s Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) fall under new classification requirements on Nov. 25, 2021, following numerous consultations with industry. The consultations were part of the Australian government’s plans to overhaul its medical device regulations to be more in line with the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR).

The U.K. National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) issued two health technology assessments dated Nov. 24, including one that gives a guarded recommendation for devices used to narrow the coronary sinus as a treatment for refractory angina. Neovasc Inc., of Richmond, British Columbia, touted the news as a positive for its Reducer device, given that this is the first instance in which NICE has lent any support for a device to treat the condition.

It’s decision time for oral drugs that could help the world return to normal even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.K. already has granted emergency authorization to Merck & Co. Inc. and Ridgeback Biotherapeutics Inc.’s antiviral, Lagevrio (molnupiravir), and the EMA is expected to complete its evaluation of the oral drug within the next few weeks. In the U.S., the FDA could announce its decision on Lagevrio shortly after its Antimicrobial Drugs Advisory Committee weighs in Nov. 30 on emergency use authorization.