What is the primary purpose of this 10-K/A filing?

This filing is an Amendment No. 1 to the original 2002 Annual Report (10-K) for Edwards Lifesciences Corporation. Amendments are typically filed to correct errors, provide updated information, or include disclosures that were omitted from the original filing, rather than to present a new fiscal year's results.

What does it mean that Edwards Lifesciences is an 'accelerated filer'?

Being an 'accelerated filer' means that Edwards Lifesciences meets certain SEC criteria for company size (e.g., public float) and reporting history. Accelerated filers are generally required to file their annual reports on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q sooner after the end of their fiscal periods compared to non-accelerated filers.

Where can I find the detailed financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002?

This document is an amendment to the original 10-K. The primary financial statements and comprehensive discussion of financial condition and results of operations for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002, would be found in the original Form 10-K filing and any subsequent amendments that provide specific financial data. Item 8 and Item 7 of this filing's index indicate where these sections would typically be located.

What information is typically found in the sections referenced for incorporation by reference?

The filing indicates that portions of the 2003 Proxy Statement are incorporated by reference into Part III. This typically includes information about the company's directors and executive officers, executive compensation, security ownership by management and major shareholders, and certain related party transactions and policies.

EW 10-K FY2002 Annual Report — Revenue, Net Income, EPS

Summary

This filing is an amendment (10-K/A) to Edwards Lifesciences Corporation's 2002 Annual Report, originally filed for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2002. As an "amendment," it suggests updates or corrections to the original filing rather than a new period's financial performance. The company is a Delaware corporation primarily involved in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of advanced cardiovascular solutions. Its stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Key aspects highlighted include the company's status as an "accelerated filer," indicating a certain size and reporting history, and its market capitalization as of June 28, 2002, valued at approximately $1.38 billion. The filing also details the number of outstanding common shares and references its proxy statement for the 2003 Annual Meeting of Stockholders for information concerning directors, executive officers, compensation, and security ownership. Investors should note that specific financial performance details for 2002 are typically found in the original 10-K filing and its amendments; this document serves to supplement or correct that information.

Key Highlights

1This filing is an Amendment No. 1 to the 2002 Annual Report (10-K) for Edwards Lifesciences Corporation.
2The company is registered in Delaware and its stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange.
3As of June 28, 2002, the aggregate market value of its common stock held by non-affiliates was approximately $1.38 billion.
4The total number of outstanding common shares as of February 28, 2003, was 60,225,224.
5Edwards Lifesciences is identified as an 'accelerated filer' under SEC rules.
6The filing incorporates by reference portions of the company's 2003 Proxy Statement for detailed information on governance and executive matters.

Edwards Lifesciences Corp Annual Report (Amendment), Year Ended Dec 31, 2002

Summary

Key Highlights

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