There’s no shortage of important developments in the world of medical devices, but today, let’s discuss this matter of dogmatic adherence to biostatistics. We’ve all heard about the FDA advisory committee that recently recommended the agency approve a neurostimulation device for refractory epilepsy, and the concomitant thundering from on biostatistical high about what a corruption of the process it is to put the needs of the few gravely endangered patients ahead of numbers. What a global tragedy it is when people who are suicidal are given one last option to deal with their disease. What a moral stain on humanity...

CHICAGO — "Can we do things a little bit better?" It's one of the questions that has set off innovation and development throughout the centuries. For scientists, more specifically research physicians, the question is almost as common as "Where does it hurt?"