edwards lifesciences (nyse: ew) is the global leader in the science of heart valves and hemodynamic monitoring. driven by a passion to help patients, the company partners with clinicians to develop innovative technologies in the areas of structural heart disease and critical care monitoring that save and enhance lives. headquartered in irvine, california, edwards lifesciences has extensive operations in north america, europe, japan, latin america and asia and currently employs about 6,400 individuals worldwide. for us, helping patients is not a slogan – it's our life’s work. from developing devices that replace or repair a diseased heart valve to creating new technologies that monitor vital signs in the critical care setting, we help ensure that patients regain and even improve their quality of life.