Johnson & Johnson Delays Stent Study Release

Johnson & Johnson(JNJ Quote) Tuesday said it was delaying by about five months the publication of a test comparing its Cypher drug-coated arterial stent and the Taxus drug-coated stent made by Boston Scientific(BSX Quote).

A spokeswoman for J&J's Cordis unit said the decision was based on a recommendation by clinical investigators who were participating in a test that involves more than 1,300 patients in 90 hospitals in Europe, Asia and South America.

Nevertheless, J&J shares rose 43 cents, or 0.7%, to $58.58, a new 52-week intraday high, as it continues to outperform most of its rivals in the sector. ...