The agency approved a total of 91 original PMAs, panel-track PMA supplements and de novo classifications in 2016, outpacing last year's record for approvals of novel devices or indications, according to Medtech Insight's Approvals Tracker. Medtronic topped both the novel device approvals and 510(k) clearance lists for the year. Roche, Abbott, Siemens and GE also showed strong approval and clearance counts.

Starts & Stops is a regular feature highlighting the Medtech Insight editors' picks of noteworthy medtech clinical trial initiations, completions and suspensions from the previous month. August's selection includes a few emerging innovators advancing into large pivotal trials for their game-changing technologies.

Derived from Strategic Transactions, EBI’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, and Pharmaceuticals– and then categorized by type –Acquisition, Alliance, or Financing.

A roundup of recent medtech mergers & acquisitions, strategic alliances, and financings.