Abbott has received CE mark approval in Europe for its Volt Pulse Field Ablation (PFA) System, marking a significant milestone in electrophysiology. The company has commenced commercial PFA cases with physicians experienced in the Volt system through Abbott’s clinical trials. Wider availability across additional EU markets is planned for the second half of 2025.

Volt integrates seamlessly with Abbott’s EnSite X EP system, streamlining workflows by enabling mapping, pacing, and ablation with a single catheter. The system enhances visualization and real-time contact assessment, optimizing catheter positioning for improved outcomes.

“The launch of Abbott’s Volt PFA system represents a major advancement in electrophysiology,” said Prof. Helmut Puererfellner of Ordensklinikum Hospital, Linz, Austria. “PFA is transforming our approach to treating conditions like AFib, and Volt builds on this potential, bringing new benefits to clinical teams.”

Initial commercial cases were performed by leading electrophysiologists, including Prof. Roland Tilz (University Heart Center Lübeck, Germany), Prof. Gian-Battista Chierchia (University of Brussels, Belgium), and Prof. Peter Loh (University Medical Center Utrecht, Netherlands). Their involvement highlights the growing adoption of PFA technology, which continues to reshape patient care and improve treatment options for cardiac arrhythmias.

Sanofi’s hemophilia treatment, fitusiran (brand name Qfitlia), has received FDA approval, offering a new option for both hemophilia A and B patients. Unlike existing therapies, fitusiran can be administered as infrequently as once every two months, significantly reducing treatment burden. It is also suitable for patients with or without antibodies that inhibit standard clotting factor therapies.

The hemophilia treatment market has expanded rapidly with new therapies like Roche’s Hemlibra and Sanofi’s Altuviiio, though both are limited to hemophilia A and require more frequent dosing. In late-stage trials, fitusiran effectively reduced bleeding episodes compared to on-demand clotting factor treatments.

Brian Foard, Sanofi’s executive vice president of specialty care, noted an unexpectedly high interest from doctors treating hemophilia A patients, despite the availability of multiple options. Craig Benson, Sanofi’s senior global project head for hemophilia, highlighted that the drug’s reduced dosing schedule—potentially just six times per year—aligns with patient preferences for convenience.

Fitusiran can be stored at room temperature for a period and will be available in pre-filled pens for some doses. This feature is particularly beneficial for younger patients and those in regions where maintaining cold-chain storage is challenging.

However, the treatment requires careful dosing adjustments to mitigate thrombosis risk. Sanofi’s CEO Paul Hudson emphasized that patients willing to work closely with physicians can benefit from the eight-week dosing schedule.

Regulatory submissions have been filed in China and Brazil, while approvals in the EU and Japan will require additional data from ongoing trials.

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) has announced the introduction of CASGEVY, the UAE’s first CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing therapy, marking a major milestone in genomic medicine. This breakthrough offers innovative treatment for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) and transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia (TDT), reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a global leader in life sciences and gene therapy innovation.

The treatment is provided by Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC) in collaboration with Vertex Pharmaceuticals, a leading biotechnology company. The first patient is set to begin treatment at Yas Clinic Hospital in April.

CRISPR/Cas9 technology allows precise genome editing, offering a one-time, personalized treatment. The process involves extracting a patient’s stem cells, genetically modifying them in a laboratory, and reintroducing them into the body for long-term benefits.

To ensure patient safety and treatment efficacy, DoH has established strict regulatory guidelines in line with international standards. Insurance coverage has also been included to support patient access to this advanced therapy.

Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of DoH, emphasized the department’s commitment to advancing healthcare through innovation, aiming to develop cutting-edge genomic solutions to address complex diseases and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global healthcare hub.

Dr. Maysoon Al Karam, Chief Medical Officer at ADSCC, highlighted the strategic collaboration with Vertex Pharmaceuticals as a key milestone in ADSCC’s mission. As the UAE’s first FACT-accredited cellular research center, ADSCC aims to drive medical innovation, developing advanced gene therapies and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s leadership in life sciences and biotechnology.

Renowned neuroscientist and stroke care advocate Dr. P. Vijaya has officially assumed the role of President of the Indian Stroke Association (ISA) for 2025. She was inaugurated into the position at the 18th Annual Conference of the Indian Stroke Association, Indian National Stroke Conference 2025, held in Lucknow from March 20 to 23, 2025.

Dr. P. Vijaya, President, Indian Stroke Association (ISA), Fellow World Stroke Organization, and Director of Ankineedu Advanced Stroke Center, Lalitha Group of Hospitals, Guntur, AP, is revolutionizing stroke care in India. A leading neurologist, educator, and policy advocate, she is dedicated to shaping better patient outcomes through standardized stroke care and accreditation processes.

An alumnus of PGIMER, Chandigarh, Dr. Vijaya has an illustrious academic record, earning multiple gold medals, including Best Outgoing Student in MBBS and topping her MD (General Medicine) batch in 1987. She completed her DM in Neurology in 1990 and has since significantly contributed to stroke research and treatment. As an invited faculty member at national and international conferences, with over 60 publications in leading journals, she plays a crucial role in shaping stroke care policies.

Dr. Vijaya recently represented India at the International Stroke Conference (ISC 2025) in Los Angeles, where she participated in high-level deliberations on stroke advancements, best practices, and new treatment approaches. She also played a pivotal role in the joint symposium by the Indian Stroke Association (ISA) and the American Stroke Association (ASA), showcasing India’s progress in stroke research and innovation.

Her groundbreaking research in acute stroke management and platelet-targeted therapies, conducted in collaboration with neuroscientists from Barcelona, Spain, was also presented at ISC 2025. This research earned her the prestigious Paul Dudley White International Scholar Award, recognizing her global contribution to stroke research.

As the President of ISA, Dr. Vijaya outlined her vision under the theme "Brain Stroke – Time to Take Action," emphasizing the need for action at every level—individual, organizational, and national. To have a footprint of ISA in every state and Union Territories and to strive get a national policy a stroke action plan for India. She aims to strengthen stroke care infrastructure across India, ensuring equitable access to high-quality treatment and fostering international collaborations to drive innovation in stroke management.

A 54-year-old man from Anantapur, underwent a successful and complex surgical procedure at Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, to remove a lemon-sized tumor. He was diagnosed with Pott’s Puffy Tumor, a rare and aggressive condition that involves an infection of the frontal sinus. Under the expert care of Dr Susheen Dutt, Senior Consultant - ENT, Cochlear Implant and Skull Base Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore, along with Dr Abhishek S, Consultant - Otorhinolaryngology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore the patient underwent a complex surgical procedure and was discharged after a five-day hospital stay.

The patient, Sham (name changed), a resident of Anantapur, was experiencing a rapidly growing and extremely painful swelling on his forehead, which had expanded to the size of a lemon within just three and a half weeks. Initially, he noticed a gradual swelling between his eyebrows, which soon became intensely painful. Concerned about the progressive nature of the swelling, he sought medical attention in his hometown. After local consultations, he was referred to Fortis Hospital in Bengaluru for further evaluation and advanced treatment.

Upon arrival at Fortis Hospital, a thorough medical evaluation was conducted, including an MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging), to determine if the infection had spread to the brain. The results revealed that the swelling was pressing against the back wall of the frontal sinus, a sinus located in the forehead. While the infection had not yet reached the brain, it posed a significant risk due to the proximity of the sinus to the frontal lobe. Understanding the severity of the case, Dr. Susheen recommended a surgical approach to ensure precise treatment and effective resolution of the condition.

Giving details of the case, Dr Susheen Dutt, Senior Consultant - ENT, Cochlear Implant and Skull Base Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore said, “We opted for a combined approach (open and endoscopic), making a precise incision above the forehead to gain better access and ensure complete removal of the infected tissue. We had to ensure that the infection did not breach the thin layer of tissue separating the sinus from the brain. We worked meticulously to clear the infection while safeguarding the brain.”

“In addition to removing the infection, the team performed a frontal sinus obliteration procedure to prevent any future infections. Fat was used to fill the sinus cavity, sealing it off completely. This procedure eliminates the need for further bone reconstruction, as the sinus will not reopen. Over time, the area will heal, and the patient will not require additional surgeries. This approach prevents recurrence and avoids the complications associated with bone reconstruction.”

Mr. Akshay Oleti, Business Head, Fortis Hospitals Bengaluru, said, “At Fortis Hospitals, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care through innovative treatments and personalized patient services. The successful outcome of this case highlights our dedication to addressing complex medical conditions with advanced technology and expert clinical intervention. We are proud to support our patients in their recovery journey and continue to raise the bar in healthcare excellence.”

Merck & Co. announced plans to launch a subcutaneous version of its blockbuster cancer immunotherapy, Keytruda, in the U.S. on October 1, pending FDA approval. The FDA is set to decide on the new formulation by September 23. Unlike the intravenous (IV) version, the subcutaneous injection will significantly reduce administration time for patients.

“We’ll begin shipping immediately following approval, within the first week or two,” said Joanne Monahan, senior vice president in Merck’s oncology division. She emphasized that supply will be sufficient to meet market demand. The company anticipates that 30-40% of Keytruda patients will adopt the subcutaneous version within two years, with the highest initial uptake expected among those on monotherapy, oral combinations, and early-stage cancer treatments.

Keytruda, currently the world’s top-selling prescription drug, generated nearly $30 billion in revenue in 2024. Data presented at the European Lung Cancer Congress shows that the median injection time for subcutaneous Keytruda is two minutes, compared to around 30 minutes for an IV infusion.

Merck aims to use this new formulation to extend its intellectual property protection as Keytruda patents begin expiring in 2028. The company plans to introduce the subcutaneous version in Europe by early 2026.

The formulation includes an enzyme developed by South Korea-based Alteogen, but Merck may face a patent challenge from Halozyme Therapeutics over its use. However, Monahan stated, “We believe we have a strong position relative to Halozyme’s claims,” and the company does not expect any delays in the drug’s launch.

The Netherlands government is exploring Karnataka’s digital health innovations, including remote monitoring, telehealth for triaging, and AI-driven pharmaceutical advancements. In a recent bilateral discussion, Dutch Vice Minister of Health Barbara Goezinne met Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao to align the Netherlands' public health system with Karnataka’s initiatives.

The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) played a key role, proposing an “Innovation Bridge” to foster collaboration. Discussions covered telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, diagnostics, and AI-powered drug development. The Dutch delegation engaged with technology teams behind these innovations, with Barbara praising C-CAMP’s commitment to affordability and workforce efficiency.

“The innovation walk was inspiring. We aim to collaborate on labour-saving medical solutions,” she said. Health Minister Gundu Rao welcomed knowledge-sharing opportunities, emphasizing Karnataka’s strong partnership with C-CAMP in scaling impactful healthcare innovations.

C-CAMP’s portfolio includes over 80 deep-tech startups working on AI, machine learning, healthcare analytics, and wearable health devices. CEO-Director Dr. Taslimarif Saiyed noted their successful collaboration with Dutch biotech firm Survivex for a sepsis-related project, along with ongoing partnerships with Utrecht, Leiden, and industry leaders.

C-CAMP-supported digital health solutions are already integrated into Karnataka’s public health system, enhancing ophthalmology, maternal and child healthcare, immunization, and remote monitoring services.

Last year, C-CAMP partnered with Indegene to support early-stage life sciences startups through financial aid, mentorship, and digital services, accelerating innovation and commercialization.

The discussions aim to strengthen Indo-Dutch collaboration in digital health and AI-powered healthtech, fostering scalable and impactful healthcare solutions.

Guardant Health, a leader in precision oncology, announced that its Shield™ blood test for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is now covered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Care Network. This coverage applies to veterans receiving community care, providing in-network access with no copay for average-risk individuals aged 45 and older.

Following Medicare coverage in August 2024, the VA’s decision marks the first coverage for individuals aged 45 to 64. The VA Community Care Network supports approximately 9.1 million beneficiaries through community-based providers, expanding access to innovative screening solutions.

“We are proud to bring the lifesaving benefits of the Shield blood test to U.S. veterans,” said AmirAli Talasaz, co-CEO of Guardant Health. “This milestone represents the first coverage for younger, non-Medicare beneficiaries and advances early CRC detection when treatment is most effective.”

Shield became the first FDA-approved blood test for primary CRC screening in July 2024. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) also granted it Advanced Diagnostic Laboratory Test (ADLT) status. The non-invasive test is available for average-risk individuals aged 45 and older and can be ordered by any healthcare provider, improving access to early CRC detection.