Research and Development

Medtronic operates 26 research centers worldwide and works closely with physicians and scientists to conduct research and clinical evaluations of products. We invested more than $1.5 billion (approximately 10 percent of revenue) in research and development in fiscal year 2010, with about 20 percent of that designated for new patient populations.

Improving the productivity of our Research and Development organizations is a top priority, to deliver therapies to patients as promptly as possible. To facilitate proper project selection, Medtronic employs a portfolio management process that evaluates programs based on consistent criteria. Each year, the selection criteria become more sophisticated as our investments increase to meet the expanding quality and regulatory requirements of our global markets.

We also look for leverage to improve productivity across our seven business units and multiple R&D organizations. Centers of excellence exist for technologies such as integrated circuits, implantable batteries, catheter development, and physiological research. In addition, we have numerous project and department level examples of shared technologies and skills.