made in determining the estimated fair value assigned to each class of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, as well as asset lives, can materially impact our results of operations.

There are several methods that can be used to determine the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. For intangible assets, including IPR&D, we typically use the “income method.” This method starts with our forecast of all of the expected future net cash flows. These cash flows are then adjusted to present value by applying an appropriate discount rate that reflects the risk factors associated with the cash flow streams. Some of the more significant estimates and assumptions inherent in the income method or other methods include: the amount and timing of projected future cash flows; the amount and timing of projected costs to develop the IPR&D into commercially viable products; the discount rate selected to measure the risks inherent in the future cash flows; and the assessment of the asset’s life cycle and the competitive trends impacting the asset, including consideration

Our 2008 forecasted financial performance guidance is subject to a number of factors and uncertainties—as described in the “Forward-Looking Information and Factors That May Affect Future Results” section of this Financial Review.

Accounting Policies

We consider the following accounting policies important in understanding our operating results and financial condition. For additional accounting policies, see Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements—Note 1. Significant Accounting Policies.

Estimates and Assumptions

In preparing the consolidated financial statements, we use certain estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts and disclosures. For example, estimates are used when accounting for deductions from revenues (such as rebates, discounts, incentives and product returns), depreciation, amortization, employee benefits, contingencies and asset and liability valuations. Our estimates are often based on complex judgments, probabilities and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable, but that are inherently uncertain and unpredictable. Assumptions may later prove to be incomplete or inaccurate, or unanticipated events and circumstances may occur that might cause us to change those estimates or assumptions. It is also possible that other professionals, applying reasonable judgment to the same facts and circumstances, could develop and support a range of alternative estimated amounts. We are also subject to other risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ from estimated amounts, such as changes in the healthcare environment, competition, foreign exchange, litigation, legislation and regulations. These and other risks and uncertainties are discussed throughout this Financial Review, particularly in the section “Forward-Looking Information and Factors That May Affect Future Results.” of any technical, legal, regulatory, or economic barriers to entry, as well as expected changes in standards of practice for indications addressed by the asset.

Determining the useful life of an intangible asset also requires judgment, as different types of