FDA OKs Medtronic Heart Monitor System

Medtronic Inc., the biggest manufacturer of pacemakers and other devices that monitor heart rhythm, received U.S. regulatory approval for a system that lets doctors monitor patients’ hearts via the Internet.

The Food and Drug Administration approved Minneapolis-based Medtronic’s CareLink Monitor to be used by patients with implanted heart defibrillators. CareLink includes a small computer mouse-like device that patients hold over their chests to record heart activity. The results are sent over a phone line to a secure Web site that doctors can access. The call is free.

The company is seeking FDA approval to use CareLink with pacemakers and devices that treat heart failure, Medtronic spokesman Scott Papillon said.

Shares of Medtronic fell $1.15 to $50 on the NYSE.