May 25, 2005
Guidant Notifies Physicians Regarding VENTAK 1861 PRIZM 2 DR Implantable Defibrillator

Indianapolis, Ind. - Guidant Corporation (NYSE: GDT) initiated a communication to physicians regarding the clinical performance of its VENTAK PRIZM® 2 DR Model 1861 implantable defibrillator. There have been 26 reports of failure including one recent death. Approximately 24,000 of these devices are currently implanted worldwide. In its May 23, 2005, letter to physicians, the company describes a rare failure that results in the device''s inability to deliver therapy. The problem is in Guidant''s VENTAK PRIZM 2 DR implantable defibrillators manufactured prior to November 2002. Devices manufactured after this date are not affected.

Any patient with a VENTAK PRIZM 2 DR should consult with their physician if they have questions regarding their device, particularly if they have recently received a defibrillation shock. Guidant recommends that physicians continue monitoring patients every three months as described in the labeling. Guidant does not recommend early replacement of these devices. The overall device reliability remains high.

Guidant has worked with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on this communication and Guidant will continue working with the FDA on this issue, including any subsequent communication that may be helpful for patients or physicians.

As a leading manufacturer of lifesaving technology, Guidant takes seriously its responsibility to create the most reliable products and services, enhance patient outcomes, and limit adverse events to patients. In addition to public regulatory reporting and periodic product performance publications, the company will continue to undertake further specific physician communications to improve patient outcomes or limit adverse events related to device behavior.

Guidant Corporation pioneers lifesaving technology, giving an opportunity for a better life today to millions of cardiac and vascular patients worldwide. The company, driven by a strong entrepreneurial culture of more than 12,000 employees, develops, manufactures and markets a broad array of products and services that enable less invasive care for some of life''s most threatening medical conditions. For more information, visit www.guidant.com.