Recent product and communications issues have certainly had an impact on our business in the near term. However, we believe that the fundamentals of our business are strong and our markets and products have attractive prospects for growth.

180

While neither company depends on this transaction for its continued future success, Guidant believes that the strategic rationale for combining the two companies is as strong today as when we entered into the merger agreement.

98

The acquisition of CTS, its innovative products and strong pipeline, will provide a platform for Guidant's growth in cardiac surgery.

72