Boston Scientific Ups Settlement

Boston Scientific is agreeing to pay another $45 million as part of a major settlement with thousands of heart patients over potentially faulty defibrillators.

The increase means the Natick-based medical device maker is shelling out up to $240.

The company had been criticized for delays in telling doctors, patients and regulators about the possibility of problems with the device.

Under the terms of the prior agreement, Boston Scientific had agreed to pay $195 million to settle over 4,000 claims, as well as an undetermined number of additional similar claims.

The amended agreement covers 8,550 patient claims.

Boston Scientific's Chief Executive Officer Jim Tobin said in a statement that he is pleased with the outcome of the settlement.

Boston Scientific says it set aside more than $700 million to cover expenses in the case.