For One Small Device Company, A Big Company IP Strategy

Unlike many small medical device companies, Arthrocare insists it can implement an aggressive IP enforcement strategy because it has built a strong patent network around fundamentally new technology. Not only do the lawsuits stop patent infringers, they also give Arthrocare leverage it needs to initiate cross-licensing and licensing deals, gaining access to other important technologies. But inherent in this approach is a risk: uncertainty.