FDA Panel Backs New Use for Johnson & Johnson Catheter System

Johnson & Johnson said late Thursday a panel of government advisers recommended that its catheter system be approved for a new use in treating irregular heart rhythms. A Food and Drug Administration panel of medical device experts unanimously voted in favor of approving the Thermocool family of catheters for the new use, with certain conditions. Panelists said the company should be required to educate physicians on proper use of the device and operate a registry of patient outcomes.