Medtronic Fortifies Spinal Interbody Portfolio

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Oct. 23, 2012- Medtronic, Inc. (MDT) the world leader in spinal technology announced today key additions to reinforce its posterior degenerative interbody portfolio. These new technologies expand the company`s broad innovative offerings for both open and minimally invasive procedural solutions. The launch features the addition of posterior interbody devices that expand, rotate, and articulate. This announcement was made during the 27th annual meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS) in Dallas. The interbody portfolio includes the WAVE® platform of products with expandable implants for posterior lumbar interbody fusion surgeries. To broaden the offerings for lumbar interbody fusions, the new portfolio also features a pivoting implant for easier placement as well as a titanium implant that can be inserted and rotated longitudinally. The products are available for sale both in the United States and Europe. The devices come to Medtronic following the acquisition of the German company Advanced Medical Technologies AG (AMT) announced earlier this year.In an effort to offer a diverse portfolio, the company also announced, the launch of the CAPSTONE CONTROL(TM) Spinal System. With the ability to insert and rotate longitudinally, the CAPSTONE CONTROL(TM) Spinal System provides an interbody device with the potential for less neural retraction when compared to the impacted technique.Risks of this device include possible neurological impairment.
“We have strengthened our industry leading lumbar interbody fusion portfolio that increases surgeon options in treating the unique needs of their patients,” said Doug King, senior vice president and president of Medtronic Spinal. “It also provides customers and patients with greater access to established technologies through our sales distribution network, while AMT`s strong presence outside the United States further globalizes our business.”
Interbody fusion devices areindicated for use with autogenous bone graft and supplemental fixation instrumentation cleared for use in the lumbar spine in patients with Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) at one or two levels from L2 to S1. These DDD patients may also have up to Grade 1 Spondylolisthesis or retrolisthesis at the involved levels.
The CAPSTONE CONTROL(TM) Spinal System incorporates technology developed by Gary K. Michelson, M.D.