Despite industry-wide contraction last year after Medtronic's SYMPLICITY, some believe a hypertension device is just around the corner. With a market estimated in the billions or even tens of billions of dollars, both Medtronic and Boston Scientific are launching redesigned studies, and a determined handful of medtech start-ups continue to pursue a device-based solution for treating hypertension with invasive and noninvasive approaches, including renal sympathetic denervation through radiofrequency, ultrasound, or drugs; neuromodulation in the forearm; and cold therapy to specialized cells in the neck.

Despite industry-wide contraction last year after Medtronic's SYMPLICITY, many agree the trial was flawed, and some believe a hypertension device is just around the corner. A determined handful of medtech start-ups continue to pursue a device-based approach, most by reducing “fight-or-flight” outflow from the sympathetic nervous system.

Derived from Strategic Transactions, Informa’s premium source for tracking life sciences deal activity, the Dealmaking column is a survey of recent health care transactions listed by relevant industry segment – In Vitro Diagnostics, Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals, and Research/Analytical – and then categorized by type – Acquisition, Alliance, or Financing. This month’s column covers deals announced December 2014-January 2015.

Medtech start-ups are pioneering innovative device solutions for heart failure that they hope will end the vicious cycle of costly hospitalizations and declining patient health. Profiles of Calon-Cardio Technology, Cibiem, and DC Devices.