Stocks have surged across every sector this year as part of the market's run-up to record highs, and the medical device industry has been no exception. However, in an industry hit by tough competition and pricing pressures, among other issues at hand, several medical device stocks have performed terribly for investors this year. The sector's biggest losers haven't just failed to match the market's gains -- they've lost a great deal of money for their shareholders.

Just which stocks in the medical device industry have performed the worst in 2013? From medical robotics to cardiovascular products, a few notable laggards stand out as investors' biggest headaches this year. Motley Fool contributor Dan Carroll highlights the industry's worst performers so far this year -- and whether you should hold out hope.