Intellectual Property

Innovation is a major contributor in the creation of intangible assets for Medtronic. Medtronic capitalizes on these intangible assets through the creation of intellectual property (IP), which includes patents, trademarks, copyright, trade secrets, and know-how. 

Given the economic and commercial value of intangible assets, maximizing the legal protection of those assets ensures that investments in research and development yield reasonable returns. Medtronic utilizes IP protection for both internally developed and acquired technologies.

Medtronic pursues patent protection worldwide. In calendar year 2009, Medtronic filed 731 original patent applications in the United States and 1,688 in foreign jurisdictions.

While we are vigilant in enforcing our patent rights, we are equally diligent in respecting the IP of others. Over the last several years, Medtronic has been able to leverage its IP portfolio both in the protection of its proprietary technology and in the out-licensing or cross-licensing of certain IP. Similarly Medtronic has acquired several IP assets to enhance its position or gain access to new technologies and markets.

In addition, Medtronic promotes technology transfer and innovation through several regional manufacturing centers worldwide. Through joint ventures and partnerships in countries such as China and India, we facilitate the development of products tailored to the health care needs of specific regions.

Medtronic operates in several multinational settings and recognizes that the patent system must be balanced with the need to make life-saving therapies more widely available. To achieve greater access, Medtronic works with various international and intergovernmental agencies to address the issue of affordable medical device therapies, as well as health care infrastructure, international pricing mechanisms, financing, and tariffs, in addition to patent enforcement.

The ultimate objective of Medtronic’s culture of innovation is to bring products to market which alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life. We understand that the value of innovation and our attendant IP assets are maximized when the benefits of medical technology and products become available to all patients globally.  To that end, Medtronic maintains a sharp focus on innovative solutions to treat various non-communicable disease states and address patient needs worldwide.