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06/02/2009 00:00

Wheelchairs ‘May hinder spine injury rehab’

A new study suggests that patients suffering from spinal cord injury (SCI) who use a wheelchair may experience slower rehabilitation...

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06/02/2009 00:00

New bone drug reduces spine fracture risk

A new experimental osteoporosis drug, denosumab (Amgen) has shown to reduce the risk of vertebral fractures in post-menopausal women by...

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06/02/2009 00:00

Average childhood dairy intake may enhance bone development in adolescence

The consumption of dairy products is known to be an important component of a healthy, balanced diet, however, it has...

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06/02/2009 00:00

New International Spinal Plasty Registry is launched

The UK Vertebroplasty Group (UKVG) and Dendrite Clinical Systems have launched the International Spinal Plasty Registry. Formerly called the UK...

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06/02/2009 00:00

Spine care costs increase but improvement remains the same

One of the most common reasons for patients seeking medical attention is due to spine problems, particularly for low back...

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06/02/2009 00:00

Biomechanics of spine surgery studied with car crash technology

The biomechanics of the spine and shoulder are being studied using computational modelling in order to help surgeons reduce the...

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05/02/2009 00:00

Companies debuting at CIRSE 2008

At the 2008 Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology Society of Europe (CIRSE) meeting held in Copenhagen, Denmark, from September...

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05/02/2009 00:00

Alexander technique helps chronic back pain sufferers

A new study has found that learning the Alexander technique, a physical therapy treatment that teaches patients skills to manage...

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05/02/2009 00:00

NASS 2008: MIS continues to gain traction; emerging companies drive innovation

The conclusion reached from last year’s North American Spine Society (NASS) meeting, hosted in Toronto, Canada, is that further penetration...

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05/02/2009 00:00

NICE approves spinal cord stimulation for chronic neuropathic pain

  The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) has recommended that spinal cord stimulation should be considered as a treatment option for adults...

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05/02/2009 00:00

TDA gives quicker recovery to degenerative disc disease patients

The preservation of spine motion by using total disc arthroscopy (TDA) to treat level-one cervical degenerative disc disease leads to...

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05/02/2009 00:00

Advance in treating spinal cord injuries found in manipulating stem cells

A new stem cell technology for making a type of nerve cell that reverses paralysis in spinal cord injuries without...

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05/02/2009 00:00

Clinical instinct insufficient to assess psychological distress

Spine specialists as a group are poor at clinically assessing psychological distress, a predictor for poor treatment outcomes, and should...

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05/02/2009 00:00

SPORT: Surgery produces better outcomes than non-surgical treatments

According to evidence presented at last year’s North American Spine Society (NASS) meeting, Toronto, Canada, patients suffering from degenerative spondylolisthesis...

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05/02/2009 00:00

Facet arthroplasty device shows promising results for lumbar spinal stenosis

Degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis affects a large proportion of the population and initial treatment is usually non-surgical. However, when symptoms...

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05/02/2009 00:00

3D X-ray system produces “better” image and reduces radiation dose

A recent comparative dosimetric study between computed radiography (CR) for assessment of scoliosis and an alternative approach using a new...

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28/01/2009 00:00

Is surgery cost effective for patients with workers’ compensation?

In a study presented at SpineWeek 2008, researchers evaluated whether spine surgery was a cost effective option for patients with...

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28/01/2009 00:00

Spinal cord stem cells could be non-surgical treatment for SCI

New research has found that stem cells in the spinal cord can be used to aid healing and...

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28/01/2009 00:00

Hemivertebrectomy proves effective for congenital scoliosis treatment

Congenital scoliosis can occur in one out of 1,000 live births and is often caused by failure of the vertebrae...

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28/01/2009 00:00

A bigger and better BritSpine in Belfast

At 2008’s fifth combined meeting of the British Scoliosis Society, the British Cervical Spine Society, the Society for...

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28/01/2009 00:00

Twelve-year-old on vegan has “80-year-old spine”

The danger of vitamin D deficiencies has been highlighted by the case of a 12-year-old-girl in Glasgow, Scotland, UK, who...

Spineart Perla receives FDA 510(k) marketing clearance

The Perla system is intended for stabilisation of spinal segments as an adjunct to fusion of the cervical spine (C1 to C7) and the thoracic spine (T1 to T3).

FDA clears Stryker Tritanium PL posterior lumbar cage

The posterior lumbar cage is intended for use in patients with degenerative disc disease, grade I spondylolisthesis and degenerative scoliosis.

Cardinal Spine cervical vertebral body replacement device receives FDA 510(k) clearance

PaxMed International has announced that it has been granted US Food and Drug Administration 510(k) clearance to market the Cardinal Spine C-VBR (cervical vertebral body replacement).

Tyber Medical receives FDA clearance for BioTy modified surface treatment

Tyber Medical has received US Food and Drug Administration clearance for BioTy, a modified surface treatment for use on their headless cannulated trauma screw system.

ulrich medical USA launches uNion cervical plate system

The uNion cervical plate system is a titanium alloy spinal implant device used to provide mechanical stabilisation and anterior fixation of the cervical spine as an adjunct to fusion.

Invivo Therapeutics adds University of Louiseville Hospital to INSPIRE study

The University of Louisville is also the Data Management Center for the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation's North American Clinical Trials Network for the Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury; the largest research network for spinal cord injury in the USA.

California workers’ spinal surgery compensation declines

A California Workers' Compensation Institute study has found a 21% reduction in the number of workers’ compensation implant-eligible spinal surgeries between 2012 and 2014.

EOS imaging and Stryker announce co-promotion agreement for the UK

Under the exclusive agreement, Stryker's sales team in the UK will promote EOS imaging's products to its existing and prospective customers.

Bioventus introduces new spinal surgery products at AAOS 2016

Bioventus has introduced several new products at the 2016 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

PEEK-coated implants generate particulate debris upon impaction

Data from a Titan Spine biomechanical study demonstrating that titanium coated polyetheretherketone implants generate particulate debris during impactionhave been published in The Spine Journal.

InVivo Therapeutic names Vidant Medical Center as new INSPIRE study site

Vidant Medical Center is the only level one trauma centre in eastern North Carolina and is the primary teaching hospital for the East Carolina University's Brody School of Medicine.

Mindfulness meditation can lead to back pain relief in older adults

Mindfulness meditation programs can help reduce severe pain and increase function for older adults with chronic low back pain, according to new research.

ADHD medications associated with low bone density of the lumbar spine...

Children and adolescents who take medication for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have shown decreased bone density of the lumbar spine in a recent study.

Average at-home recovery for AIS spinal fusion estimated at 42 days

New research has estimated that the median number of at-home recovery days following spinal fusion for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is 42.

Half of Americans have a musculoskeletal condition leading to US$213 billion...

A report issued by the United States Bone and Joint Initiative (USBJI) estimates that 126.6 million Americans "half of the adult population "are affected by a musculoskeletal condition.

US FDA accepts modular submission and review process for InVivo Therapeutics’...

The US Food and Drug Administration has accepted InVivo Therapeutics' proposed humanitarian device exemption modular shell submission and review process for its Neuro-spinal scaffold.

Osteopathic manipulative treatment improves low back pain

Two studies have found that osteopathic manipulative treatment reduced pain and improved function in patients suffering from chronic, nonspecific low back pain.

Safe Orthopaedics appoints Pierre Dumouchel as interim chief executive officer

Dumouchel will initiate a refocus of the company's activities on France, Europe, and emerging markets, where it has perceived strong demand for its products.

Stryker launch Xia 4.5 cortical trajectory implants and instruments for LITe...

The Xia cortical trajectory implants and instruments are designed for use in less invasive LITe LIF posterior lumbar interbody fusion procedures.

Amedica and Celling Biosciences to collaborate on biologically enhanced spinal fusion...

Celling Biosciences have produced research indicating mesenchymal stem cells can be optimised and proliferate when using silicon nitride, compared to the current PEEK and titanium biomaterial standards.

EOS imaging granted CE mark for spineEOS online 3D surgical planning...

This marks the third EOSapp software planning option offered by the company, following its hipEOS and kneeEOS products.

US patent granted for Signus Rotaio artificial cervical disc

The patent relates to the anatomical prosthesis design, which is capable of resisting the high forces exerted while the patient is moving.

InVivo Therapeutics announces new objective performance criteria for INSPIRE

One quarter of patients must improve by at least one AIS grade by six months post-implantation in the study of InVivo's Neuro-Spinal Scaffold.

Precision Spine expands space and jobs at Mississippi, USA manufacturing facility

Precision Spine has added a third building to its Pearl, Mississippi campus, expanding the total manufacturing facility footprint by 30% to just under 30,000 square feet of space and creating 25 new jobs.

Stryker launches first cervical interbody fusion device featuring Aero technology

Stryker's Spine division has introduced the Aero-C cervical stability system at the 2016 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) annual meeting in Florida, USA.

Curtis Selquist elected chairman of RTI Surgical’s board

Curtis M Selquist is to succeed Dean Bergy as chairman of the board for RTI Surgical, effective immediately. Peter F Gearen has also been named vice chairman of the board of directors.

Five-year data demonstrate long-term therapeutic effect of Paradigm Spine’s coflex compared...

The results of this study with 5-year follow-up support that decompression and interlaminar stabilisation is an effective and sustainable treatment option, according to the authors.

Spinal procedures completed successfully with new Vital 5 ReLeaf catheter

A series of orthopaedic and spinal procedures have been completed using the Vital 5 ReLeaf catheter in Logan, and Chicago, USA.

FDA confirms Robert Califf as new commissioner

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed the appointment of Robert Califf as its 22nd commissioner, following a US Senate vote of 88 to 4 in his favour. This appointment follows his role as Deputy Commissioner of the FDA Office of Medical Products and Tobacco, a position he has held since January 2015.

Hebrew University students develop fibre optic guidewire for spinal fusion surgery

Students from Hebrew University's BioDesign innovation programme develop an opto-electronic drilling system designed to facilitate highly accurate spinal fusion surgery with minimal side effects.

Bone Therapeutics’ Allob data show spinal fusion and absence of intervertebral...

Pre-clinical and positive early clinical efficacy data of the Allob Phase IIA spinal fusion trial show spinal fusion on computed tomography scans and absence of intervertebral motion on dynamic x-rays.

Students at The Hebrew University develop fibre optic guidewire with minimal...

The team developed BendGuide, an opto-electronic drilling system that monitors and detects minute changes in guide-wire trajectory during surgery.

Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy may reduce cellular inflammation associated with disc...

A study has shown that pulsed electromagnetic field therapy may reduce cellular inflammation and degradation associated with disc degeneration in human intervertebral disc cells.

RTI Surgical launches Unison-C anterior cervical fixation system

This anterior cervical fixation system is indicated for stand-alone interbody fusion for the treatment of single-level degenerative disc disease from C2 to T1, in skeletally mature patients.

InVivo Therapeutics INSPIRE study enrols sixth patient

InVivo Therapeutics has enrolled a sixth patient into its INSPIRE study at the Barnes-Jewish Hospital at Washington University Medical Center, St. Louis, USA.

Researchers discover new therapeutic target for spinal muscular atrophy

Neuroscientists have discovered a specific enzyme that plays a critical role in spinal muscular atrophy. Suppressing this enzyme's activity could markedly reduce the disease's severity.

Amedica to present 24-month CASCADE clinical trial results

The blinded, randomised clinical trial compared spinal fusion between its composite silicon nitrade fusion devices with a central, cancellous core, to PEEK spaces filled with bone autograft.

Intradiscal biacuplasty sustains long-term superiority over conservative treatment for discogenic low-back...

A new study has found that patients treated with intradiscal biacuplasty for discogenic back pain maintained benefits a year later, as did those who transferred to IDB treatment mid-study.

Ten more US states receive positive local coverage decisions for MIS...

This will leave First Coast Service Options of Florida the only Medicare Administrative Contractor yet to provide coverage for minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion surgery.

Elevated rate of lumbar disc herniation in astronauts post-spaceflight likely caused...

Research has concluded that the increased rate of intervertebral lumbar disc (IVD) herniation is most likely caused by an increase in lumbar disc hydration due to the reduced spinal loads experienced in space.

SpineGuard granted national vendor contract by Hospital Corporation of America

This network includes more than 167 hospitals and 112 standalone surgery centres in the USA, held under the HealthTrust purchasing group.

Twelve patients treated without safety concerns in Bone Therapeutics Allob trial

Bone Therapeutics is attempting to address the lack of fusion which can occur with the treatment of degenerative disc disease by spinal fusion with Allob, its allogeneic bone-forming cell product.

Smoking linked to cervical degenerative disc disease

Whilst smoking has previously been connected with lumbar degeneration, this study has associated it with degeneration of the cervical spine.

Early rehabilitation after spinal cord injuries may lead to better functional...

Research has associated earlier rehabilitation with modest improvements in functioning and physical independence for patients suffering from spinal cord injuries.

EOS imaging obtains Innovative Technology status from the Korean National Evidence-Based...

This status categorises EOS as a unique modality, giving it a new reimbursement code with higher coverage than conventional X-rays.

DSM Biomedical appoints Eric Teutsch as president

Teutsch joins DSM from Stryker, where he was vice president and general manager of the Orthobiologics Division.

Amendia launches OmegaLIF expandable lumbar interbody device

The OmegaLIF is designed to provide a solution for skeletally mature patients with degenerative disc disease at one or two contiguous levels from L2-S1.

Bone Therapeutics to combine Allob cells with Kasios’ spinal fusion cage

Bone Therapeutics is to extend its collaboration with Kasios. The companies aim to combine Bone Therapeutics' Allob cells with Kasios' spinal fusion cage.

Medovex receives reimbursement for DenerveX facet joint syndrome treatment in Germany

The new reimbursement coding, effective immediately, was released in the Diagnosis-Related Group system in 2016 in Germany. This coding allows for hospitals and outpatient centres to receive reimbursement for the use of the DenerveX System for the treatment of facet joint syndrome in the spine.

Agreement of cervical spine degenerative pathology findings in magnetic resonance imaging...

Researchers compared the inter- and intra-rated agreement of magnetic resonance imaging findings, and discovered that even inter-rated agreement ranged substantially, even in an idealised study setting.

RTI Surgical and Oxford Performance Materials to manufacture implants using OsteoFab...

Under the agreement, OPM will manufacture RTI's spinal implant designs using OsteoFab technology, and RTI will oversee finishing steps, packaging, marketing and distribution of finished products.

Two economic publications show sacroiliac joint surgery as cost-effective and money-saving

SI-Bone has announced that two economic studies show cost benefits for minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion surgery in the treatment of chronic sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

Wenzel Spine receives US Food and Drug Administration approval to market...

VariLift-LX is indicated to be implanted in a unilateral or bilateral capacity via a posterior or transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion interbody fusion approach, and may be used stand-alone, without supplemental fixation.

Leader Biomedical partners with BioTiss Austria to further develop eCOO technology...

Leader Biomedical Group has partnered with BioTiss, in order to consolidate human musculoskeletal tissue processing at their facilities in Austria.

NICE guidelines recommend infliximab for treatment of severe ankylosing spondylitis

The guidelines recommend infliximab for use within its marketing authorisation, as a potential treatment in adults whose disease has not responded adequately to, or who cannot tolerate, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

InVivo Therapeutics INSPIRE study names University of California, San Diego Medical...

Joseph Ciacci, clinical professor of Surgery at the UC San Diego School of Medicine and chief of Neurosurgery at the Veteran Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, has been named principal investigator at the site.

TranS1 names Chris Groppa chief marketing officer and director of reimbursement

Groppa will oversee the company's marketing activities, and will continue to oversee its US insurance reimbursement strategy.

Feasibility of individualised metal 3D printed spinal implants demonstrated in Metalysis...

Spinal joint replacement patients could potentially receive individualised, metal 3D-printed implants, thanks to research partnership Metalysis and TWI.

Exactech acquires independent distribution partner Exactech Australia

The purchase included all the stock and assets of Exactech Australia, a Sydney-based importer and distributor of Exactech's orthopaedic implants, instrumentation and advanced surgical technology.

First implantation of Expanding Orthopedics FLXfit 3D expandable cage performed in...

Jonathan Lewin of North Shore Forest Hills Hospital in New York has become the first surgeon in New Jersey, USA to adopt the FLXfit articulated and lordotic expandable cage for the treatment of minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion surgery.

First Implanet Jazz band surgical procedure performed in Brazil

The first idiopathic scoliosis surgical procedure using the Jazz platform in Brazil has been successfully performed by Raphael Pratali and his team at the Hospital do Servidor Público Estadual in São Paulo, Brazil.

Updated clinical practice guidance issued on chiropractic care for low back...

The update, which revised and combined three previous guidelines, suggests that doctors of chiropractic are well-suited to diagnose, treat, co-manage and manage the treatment of patients with low-back disorders.

The mini-open pedicle subtraction osteotomy for flatback syndrome and kyphosis correction

Dean Chau and Darryl Larry demonstrate the technique of the mini-open pedicle subtraction osteotomy, in a video for an ahead-of-print article to appear in Operative Neurosurgery.

SpineGuard appoints Steve McAdoo as vice president of Business Development

McAdoo has more than 27 years of global marketing, sales management and business development experience in the medical device industry, including spine, general orthopaedics, trauma, cardiovascular and urology.

German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care publish report...

The aim of the report is to identify those recommendations from current guidelines of high methodological quality that may be relevant for the potential new disease management programme, "Chronic back pain".

CTL Medical acquires spinal implant designer and manufacturer, AccelSpine

The AccelSPINE brand will remain intact until the integration is complete, and all relevant regulatory measures have been met.

K2M Rhine cervical disc system receives CE mark

K2M has been granted CE marking for the Rhine cervical disc system, which can now be sold and distributed within Europe. This device is a next-generation product for the treatment of degenerative disc disease.

Centinel Spine’s Altos system cleared by FDA, first implantation performed

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have cleared the Altos (Centinel Spine) posterior cervical thoracic stabilisation system. The product is indicated for use in either the lateral masses of the cervical spine or the pedicles of the cervical-thoracic spine.

Interventional Spine to launch redesigned website

Interventional Spine is to launch a new, redesigned version of its website, which will feature the company's newly-released next-generation expandable lumbar cage system.

Precision insertion of sacroiliac screws using an augmented reality-based navigation system...

An experienced orthopaedic surgeon was able to successfully and accurately place percutaneous sacroiliac screws into a number of cadavers using a new augmented reality (AR) navigation system.

Exercise associated with prevention of low back pain

Exercise "alone or in combination with exercise "may reduce the risk of low back pain, suggests a review article published by JAMA Internal Medicine.

SpineGuard secures €7.7M debt financing with Bpifrance and IPF Partners

Spineguard has secured €7.7M of debt financing through an Innovation Loan of €1.5M with Bpifrance and the issuance of four tranches of bonds totaling €6.2M with IPF Partners.

Monitoring scoliosis patients’ brace use prevents curve progression, surgery

Adolescent scoliosis patients who used a brace with embedded sensors which monitored use wore their brace for longer than those who were not told the purpose of the monitors.

3D photography could improve assessment of chest wall deformity in scoliosis...

Plastic surgery's 3D imaging techniques could simplify and improve the assessment of deformity and the measurement of post-operative improvements in scoliosis surgery.

Motor control exercise may help lower back pain

Motor control exercise (MCE) has been developed with the aim of restoring the coordination, control and capacity of the trunk muscles that support the spine.

Study reveals new approach to low back pain diagnosis

A team from the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, USA, have discovered a new, personalised approach to diagnosing low back pain. Their research has been published in Arthritis Research and Therapy.

SpinalCyte receives new patent for spinal disc tissue engineering

The technology described in the patent involves incorporating a three dimensional matrix to expose the fibroblasts to a mechanical strain using intermittent hydrostatic pressure and/or fluid shear stress.

Bill Hawkins appointed chairman of Bioventus’ board of managers

Bioventus has announced the appointment of Bill Hawkins, retired chairman and chief executive officer of Medtronic and currently lead director of Immucor, as its new chairman of the company's board of managers.

First surgical case performed successfully using K2M Cascadia lateral interbody system

This case "performed in the USA "follows the product's recent US Food and Drug Administration 510(k) and CE mark clearance.

Vexim SpineJack reaches 25,000 unit sales milestone

Vexim has reached the key milestone of 25,000 SpineJack units sold since the market launch of the implant in 2011.

Life Spine to offer PULSE program and cadaver workshops in 2016

Life Spine is to offer the Physicians Understanding the Life spine Experience (PULSE) program at their new medical facility and cadaver lab in Huntley, USA.

Medtech granted FDA 510(k) clearance for Rosa Spine

Medtech has been granted 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market the Rosa spine unit in the USA.

Nearly one in three adolescents report back pain

It is becoming more common for children and adolescents to seek medical care for back pain, according to a literature review published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Spinal fractures may lead to widespread chronic body pain

Fractures of the spine and hip, among other bones, may lead to an increased risk of widespread chronic body pain later on in life, according to a new study published in Archives of Osteoporosis.

First spinal fusion surgery performed with “one-step” pedicle screw implantation using...

The world's first spinal fusion surgery performed with the one-step-insertion of pedicle "smart-screws", guided by SpineGuard's Dynamic Surgical Guidance (DSG) technology has taken place in Paris, France.

NuVasive to acquire Ellipse Technologies

Nuvasive is to acquire Ellipse Technologies for a $380 million upfront cash payment and a potential $30 million milestone payable in 2017 according to the achievement of various revenue targets.

InVivo Therapeutics granted approval to convert INSPIRE from pilot study to...

The study will now be formally known as "The INSPIRE Study: InVivo Study of Probable Benefit of the Neuro-Spinal Scaffold for Safety and Neurologic Recovery in Subjects with Complete Thoracic AIS A Spinal Cord Injury."

Kentucky and Ohio, USA, Medicare Administrative Contractor to provide coverage for...

This coverage, which should give 2.8 million beneficiaries access to this surgery, will become effective on the 1st February 2016.

Use of opioid prescribing guidance significantly decreases prescription rates

Opioid prescribing guidance can have an immediate and long-lasting impact on opioid prescribing rates for minor conditions in an acute care setting.

K2M receives US FDA 510(k) clearance for Everest MI XT spinal...

K2M has also received CE mark for the system, which is a cannulated top-loading pedicle screw system featuring rigid closed-top break-off extension tabs, designed for minimally invasive rod passage.

ChoiceSpine Tomcat receives 510(k) clearance

This new device is designed to combine the functionality of two other ChoiceSpine products; Stealth and Falcon. It also uses PEEK-Optima HA Enhanced.

Teenager partners with K2M to design spinal implant for scoliosis

A teenager at Tufts University, Medford, USA has spent three years developing a titanium-alloy spinal implant for adolescents with scoliosis, which expands as the patient grows, according to a report in Qmed.

New generation of synthetic bone graft developed

A new kind of synthetic bone graft has been developed by a team at Queen Mary University, London. This bone graft boosts the body's ability to regenerate bone tissue.

Life Spine’s Gruve anterior cervical plate system receives 510(k) marketing clearance

This system is designed to allow for extreme bone screw angulation and large graft windows. It is due for release in 2016.

ApiFix connects North American parents with European spine surgeons using their...

ApiFix has begun connecting the parents of children in Australia, Canada and the USA who have adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) with spine surgeons in Europe and Israel currently using the ApiFix system to treat AIS.

Dyneema Purity radiopaque cerclage cable from DSM receives FDA 510(k) clearance...

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared DSM Biomedical's Dyneema Purity radiopaque cerclage cable for use in the treatment of spine fractures and other orthopaedic trauma.

Fiagon and joimax partner for Intracs system

This system combines the companies' surgical navigation and minimally invasive endoscopic spine surgery offerings.

Stimwave Freedom-8A spinal cord stimulation system receives FDA clearance

The Stimwave Freedom-8A spinal cord stimulation (SCS) system has been granted FDA clearance to be marketed for the relief of chronic back and leg pain.

Mazor Robotics Renaissance system receives 100th order

The system was purchased by UConn Health, located in Farmington, USA and installed at its John Dempsey Hospital.

EOS platform installed in record six hospitals over the last month

This brings the total current US installations of the imaging system to 47, with 7 further platforms shipped for installation.

FDA approves Infuse bone graft for three new spinal surgery indications

The new indications approve Infuse for use with certain spine implants made with polyetheretherketone (PEEK).

Novel tissue engineering strategies may provide better outcomes for lumbar disc...

Though these emerging biological repair methods still face challenges as they advance to and through clinical testing in patients, they may be able to offer significant pain reduction and restore flexibility and motion of the spine.

Rosa robotic surgery systems sold to two US hospitals

Medtech has sold two new Rosa robotic surgery systems to the Children's Hospital of Atlanta and the Children's Hospital Colorado, both in the USA.

Long posterior cervical fusions can be stopped at C7 instead of...

Multilevel posterior cervical fusions can be safely stopped at C7, rather than the upper thoracic spine, without increasing the risk of complications or subsequent fusion extension at short- to mid-term follow-up.

Positive results of ReActiv8-A clinical trial confirmed by additional data

Additional data from 13 subjects has been released by Mainstay Medical, showing significant and lasting improvements in pain, disability and quality of life.

Most children and adolescents with lumbar disc herniation present with malformations...

Results published in Neurosurgery also suggest that surgery on the disc alone, without spinal fusion, may be sufficient to treat low back pain from herniated discs in young people.

Artificial lumbar disc effective at 11-year follow-up

In the short- to mid-term, lumbar total disc replacement has at least equivalent clinical results compared with lumbar fusion. However, questions remain regarding long-term complications effectiveness.

Two-level cervical disc arthroplasty is an effective alternative to ACDF at...

A study has shown that the procedure can offer an earlier return to work and fewer reoperations treatment by ACDF.

Swedish group report substantial long-term pain following lumbar fusion for chronic...

The report indicates that although lumbar fusion can still be considered a valid treatment option for chronic low back pain, substantial postoperative pain and disability should be expected.

Bioventus acquires BioStructures, receives entire product portfolio

The BioStructures product portfolio includes synthetic, allograft, collagen, and demineralised bone matrix options for surgeons.

St Jude Medical launches spinal cord stimulation system in Europe

The Proclaim Elite SCS system is an upgradeable, non-rechargeable, burst-enabled MR-conditional SCS system.

The evolution and present role of percutaneous pedicular screw fixation in...

Minimally invasive surgery is beneficial in a well-selected group of MSD patients suffering from clinically significant instability with intractable back pain or motor deficits, Naresh Kumar tells Spinal News International.

Secukinumab receives European Commission for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis

This decision makes the drug the first new treatment advance for ankylosing spondylitis in 16 years.

Leader Biomedical Group expands operations to Brazil

Leader Biomedical group supplies a number of bone graft substitutes processed with its eCOO technology, including the eTiss demineralised bone matrix.

Stem cell treatment protects against harmful immune response after spinal cord...

The findings, which will be published online in Scientific Reports resulted in significant improvements in the motor and urinary functions of animals.

Allograft bone not reliable for atlantoaxial fusion, even with use of...

A study from Honghui Hospital, Xi'an, China, confirmed autograft as the gold standard for atlantoaxial fusion, in spite of its higher rate of donor-site morbidity.

Children with certain neuromuscular disorders three times more likely to experience...

This research from the Johns Hopkins Children's Center shows children with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and muscular dystrophy, are most at risk.

DT Elite guide system launched by Nexxt Spine

This system is designed to reduce the number of surgical steps required during an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion procedure.

Electrical stimulation therapy could relieve lower back pain in older adults

A study from the University of Florida has shown that higher dosage is required to achieve relief in older patients.

‘No evidence’ that bone-growth agent for spinal fusion increases cancer risk

A new study has found no significantly higher risk of cancer in patients who underwent lumbar spinal fusion surgery using rhBMP than in the general population.

AxiaLIF procedure saves US$3,500 compared to TLIF procedure, according to economic...

As well as financial savings, the procedure was associated with shortened hospital stays, lower rates of hospital readmission, and a faster return to work.

More than 50 surgeons trained in minimally invasive BoneScalpel platform at...

More than 50 surgeons trained in minimally invasive BoneScalpel platform at the conference in Las Vegas, USA.

Pessimism and a lack of exercise is “a risky combination”

Anne Mannion and Achim Elfering discuss their research, which evaluates the longitudinal validity of beliefs in predicting future pain in the shoulders, neck and back. They consider if cognitive behavioural interventions, education and exercise programmes could serve to reduce the impact of back pain in high-risk groups.

iFuse system receives new indication cleared by the FDA

The indication includes improved pain, patient function and quality of life at 12 months.

Preliminary report on the PROlif Lateral solution presented by Mazor Robotics

The procedure was also shown at the SMISS conference for the first time on a cadaver.

Updated design of Interventional Spine’s Opticage receives FDA clearance

The expandable interbody fusion device has received clearance for spinal fusion.

EOS imaging system to be installed at Kudanzaka Hospital in Japan

The platform will be available to more than 1,000 patients per year undergoing spine surgeries in Japan.

Medicare outpatient and physician payments to increase for minimally invasive sacroiliac...

These proposed payments represent an increase of 14% for outpatient payment and 25% for physician reimbursement, and will become effective on January 1, 2016.

Acupuncture and Alexander Technique prove effective in long-term treatment of chronic...

In a study published in Annals of Internal Medicine, both treatments have been shown to lead to significant reductions in neck pain and associated disability, compared with traditional care alone.

CE mark application for Mainstay Medical’s ReActiv8

Mainstay Medical has submitted a CE mark application for its ReActiv8 implantable neurostimulation device, which is designed to treat disabling chronic low back pain.

Revision surgery more cost-effective than primary surgery for adult spinal deformity

Revision surgery for adult spinal deformity has been shown to incur significantly lower surgical costs than primary surgery. In a study from Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, USA, which calculated cost-effectiveness in terms of quality-adjusted-life-years (QALYs), revision surgery was also shown to have a lower overall two-year cost and higher QALY gains, although these results were not significant.

Minimally invasive implant procedure shown to be highly effective in treatment...

A clinical trial featured in the November issue of Neurosurgery has shown that minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion using triangular titanium implants is highly effective in reducing pain and disability for patients with sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction.

Muscle relaxant or opioid combined with naproxen does not improve low...

According to a study in the Journal of the American Medicine Association (JAMA), patients with acute low back pain (LBP) achieved no greater pain relief of improvement in functional outcomes when treated with naproxen combined either a muscle relaxant or opioid, than with naproxen combined with a placebo.

Differences in TLIF and posterolateral fusion outcomes limited in terms of...

A study from Norton Leatherman Spine Center, Louisville, USA, has shown that, while TLIF (Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion) may generate better one-year ODI (Oswestry disability index) outcomes for spondylolisthesis, it may not produce any other significantly better outcomes than posterolateral fusion (PSF).

Misonix introduces new BoneScalpel MIS platform and trains 120 surgeons at...

Surgeons who attended Misonix's presentations at the conference received hands-on training through peer-to-peer demonstrations of the new platform.

Failure of short lumbar fusions may be related to spino-pelvic malalignment...

It is suggested that restoration of spino-pelvic alignment in short lumbar fusions may reduce the risk of revision surgery for adjacent segment disease. Although prospective clinical data is currently lacking, this finding is supported by biomechanical data.

Manny Avila appointed as new IlluminOss chief executive officer

IlluminOss Medical has named Manny Avila as its new chief executive officer. Avila has worked in medical device sales, operations and business managements for over two decades.

Seaspine announces new Cambria NanoMetalene cervical interbody fusion device.

The device is an "ultra-thin" layer of commercially pure titanium, molecularly bonded to a PEEK-Optima implant. It is designed for use as an adjunct to fusion in patients with degenerative disc disease, and for use in anterior cervical discectomy procedures.

Nanovis announces new Forticore wedge-shaped Iorditic cervical cage and TLIF device

FortiCore implants, comprised of a PEEK centre and a deeply porous titanium scaffold, are the most scientifically advanced interbody fusion devices, according to Nanovis.

Stryker’s VertaPlex HV becomes first PMMA to receive clearance for treating...

Stryker Corporation's Interventional Spine business has been granted FDA clearance to market its VertaPlex HV for the treatment of sacral insufficiency fractures.

Life Spine launches four minimally invasive systems at NASS

Life Spine has revealed four new products at the 2015 North American Spine Society meeting in Chicago.

SpinalCyte granted new Australian patent for spinal disc tissue engineering

SpinalCyte has announced the issuance of Australian Patent No. 2013257540, "Methods and Compositions For Repair Of Cartilage Using An In Vivo Bioreactor." This adds to the 11 US and foreign patents issued and directly owned by the company.

joimax launches EndoLIF on-cage and iLESSYS Delta Interlaminar System

joimax has launched a 3D-printed titanium alloy - the EndoLIF On-Cage - and its iLESSYS Delta interlaminar system, at the 30th annual North American Spine Society meeting in Chicago.

Expedium Verse Spinal System simplifies spinal surgery according to DePuy Synthes

This product " an all-in-one pedicle screw system " could enable surgeons to perform multiple spinal correction manoeuvres during spinal fusion surgery with a single implant type and fewer instruments than can traditional pedicle screw systems.

Zeniva PEEK enables breakthrough intervertebral joint fusion technology, claims Solvay

Rather than coating the fusion device, this surface treatment is grown directly from the bulk PEEK material of Vertera Spine's Cohere system. Solvay's Zeniva PEEK is made up of both the porous surface technology and the device on which it is grown.

Benvenue Medical announces commercial availability of Luna 3D Interbody Fusion System

Benvenue Medical has announced the US commercial launch of their Luna 3D Interbody Fusion System, which it claims provides this least invasive approach to spinal fusion for treatment of symptomatic degenerative disc disease

4WEB Medical announces launch of 3D-printed Posterior Spine Truss System

The US market launch of the Posterior Spine Truss System by 4WEB medical has been announced at the North American Spine Society annual meeting in Chicago. This system is a line of interbody fusion devices with applications across posterior spine approaches including PLIF, TLIF, and Oblique procedures.

Prestige LP cervical disc patients maintain improved outcomes at seven years

Medtronic has announced favourable seven-year data maintaining improved clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction for the Prestige LP cervical disc compared to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

Patients’ expectations of surgical outcomes need to be more realistic

According to a new study presented at the 30th Annual Meeting of the North American Spine Society, 87% of lumbar spine surgery patients had more optimistic expectations of surgical outcomes than their surgeons did.

Simplify Disc receives IDE approval from the FDA for a two-level...

Simplify Medical has announced that it has received Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to initiate a two-level clinical trial comparing its Simplify Disc with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) as a control. This IDE approval grants Simplify the option of expanding its clinical operations.

Providence Medical Technology launches proprietary surface technology which it claims can...

Cavux, which is designed to speed bone fusion during the healing process, has been introduced by Providence Medical Technology. It is a surface technology that produces micro-textures on titanium surfaces, using micro- and nano-textures created across the implant surface area serve to enhance the fusion process.

Study compares results of allograft and autograft bone use and measurement...

According to a new study presented at the 30th Annual Meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS; 14-16 October, Chicago, USA), spine surgeons should choose a patient's own bone material rather than donor bone for better results in posterior atlantoaxial fusion.

NuVasive receives first FDA 510(k) clearance of cervical corpectomy cage

The X-Core Mini cervical corpectomy system is an expandable titanium vertebral body replacement device designed to provide enhanced stability following a corpectomy procedure.

High rate of complications following adult deformity surgery may not ultimately...

Many complications "likely have minimal or no impact on ultimate patient outcome," according to Justin Smith, professor of Neurosurgery at University of Virginia Medical Center, Charlottesville, USA, who presented the findings at EUROSPINE 2015.

Treatment with more than two cages in deformity surgery improves outcomes

Using more than two cages in adult spinal deformity patients produces significantly better correction, clinical outcomes and significantly fewer neurological complications, according to data shared at EUROSPINE 2015.

Robert Gunzburg

Robert Gunzburg followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather in becoming a doctor. Breaking with the family tradition of rheumatology, Gunzburg decided to specialise in spinal medicine. He told Spinal News International about his path to and what he has learned from his journey so far.

Percutaneous osteosynthesis in bone cancer patients

Percutaneous osteosynthesis consists of inserting screws into bone structures through a skin incision of less than 10mm. It is now performed percutaneously by interventional radiologists due to the development of cannulated screws inserted coaxially over a guide pin, and due to the level of accuracy possible with CT- or flat panel-guidance, writes Frédéric Deschamps.

Treating compression fractures with Vessel-X

Vessel-X (Spirit Spine) is a device used to undertake "vesselplasty" procedures, designed to restore vertebral body height following a vertebral compression fracture using a non-stretchable PET (polyethylene terephthalate) container.

ECA Medical Instruments disposable fixation kit used in first surgery with...

ECA Medical Instruments' custom disposable instrument kit was used to successfully secure the first Revolution spine system lumbar implant from Intelligent Implant Systems (ISS).

Atlas Spine Launches True Position XL TLIF platform and 36mm surgical...

Supported by the advanced TruLIF technique, Atlas Spine says that its family of True Position XL implants ranging from 36-51mm in length exceeds current TLIF offerings and provides implants comparable to anterior lumbar interbody fusion/lateral footprints using a posterior approach.

Life Spine announces limited release of SImpact sacroiliac joint fixation system

The SImpact system consists of two unique diameter cannulated implants offered in various lengths, in full and partially threaded configurations to accommodate variations in patient anatomy.

Alphatec Spine launches Neocore osteoconductive matrix in the USA

The first patient surgical implantation of the Alphatec Neocore osteoconductive matrix "a synthetic scaffold for the regeneration of bone "has been successfully completed.

NuVasive Spine Foundation exceeds US$18m in global effort to support spine...

The NuVasive Spine Foundation (NSF), a non-profit organisation founded and managed by the company, has reached a cumulative milestone of approximately US$18.4m contributed since the Foundation’s inception in 2009.

SpineGuard receives CE mark for new application of its disruptive Dynamic...

SpineGuard has announced the CE marking for its DSG (Dynamic Surgical Guidance) Threaded Drill and the first surgery, a thoracolumbar scoliosis correction, in Lille's Centre Hospitalier Universitaire by Assaker, Chopin and Allaoui.

“Remarkable” rate of heterotopic ossification after 10 years in cervical disc...

Although cervical total disc replacement remains a safe and effective procedure with low rates of complication and high levels of patient satisfaction, in patients with adjacent segment degeneration, significant heterotopic ossification and resulting loss of prosthesis function was observed at 10 years' follow-up.

Gelatine matrix with human thrombin can reduce intraoperative blood loss

A study presented at EUROSPINE 2015 (2-4 September, Copenhagen, Denmark) exhibited success using Gelatine matrix with human thrombin to reduce intraoperative blood loss alongside traditional haemostasis techniques.

MedTorque releases new TRI-GEAR ratcheting instruments for spine surgery

MedTorque has released its new line of TRI-GEAR silicone handle ratcheting instruments for use in spine surgeries.

Treating gunshot injuries to the spine

Jay M Zampini discusses how best to treat gunshot injuries to the spine "the third most common cause of spinal cord injury in the USA.

EOS imaging acquires exclusive rights to scoliosis progression prognosis software technology

Eight international EOS centres will undertake a multicentre study to evaluate the technology as a predictive tool.

Stryker Navigation introduces SpineMask tracker and SpineMap 3D 3.0 software

SpineMask Tracker is a non-invasive patient tracker enabling minimally invasive approaches for spine surgery without an additional incision for navigation tracking.

New Jazz Band FDA clearance expands posterior fixation system selection

Jazz may be used with other posterior thoracolumbar fixation systems (screws, rods, hooks) available on the market.

Medtech closes sale of Rosa robotic surgery system in Germany

Medtech has announced a new sale of its Rosa robot to Frankfurt University Hospital in Germany.

Spinal Elements receives expanded indications for the Lotus posterior cervical/thoracic spinal...

The new clearance now broadens Lotus' indications for the placement of screws in the cervical (C1-C7) spine, providing surgeons with more surgical treatment options for improved treatment of various posterior cervical and thoracic pathologies.

FDA approval for Precision Spine’s Reform modular and HA-coated pedicle screw...

The Reform system represents the first modular system on the market to feature a cobalt chrome tulip with a proximal tapered triple lead thread, designed to help increase the bone/screw interface to enhance pull-out strength and allow for efficient screw delivery.

Patients prefer relief from lower back pain over improved mobility

A new study published in Neurology has found that when asked to choose between treatments that reduced pain or those that would help them stand or walk, lumbar spinal stenosis patients overwhelmingly chose pain relief.

Cervical deformity surgery produces a 43% early complication rate

Forty-three per cent of cervical spine deformity patients experience early complications following surgery with 24.4% of patients experiencing major complications, according to a presentation at EUROSPINE 2015 (2-4 September, Copenhagen, Denmark).

VA Spinal Cord Injury Center demonstrates clinical improvement with EarlySense monitoring...

The EarlySense system monitors patients’ heart rate, respiratory rate and motion on a continuous basis, through a contact-free sensor under the mattress, or within a cushion of a chair.

Radiolucent pedicle screw system offers alternatives for spinal tumour patients

icotec's carbon/PEEK spinal system offers radiotherapists, spinal surgeons and patients artefact-minimised planning and optimised application of radiation therapy to treat spinal tumours.

INSITE data indicate efficacy of minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion

Peter Whang discusses recent results from the INSITE trial, which compares the use of minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion using iFuse implants (SI-Bone) with non-surgical management to treat chronic sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

Titan Spine partners with MBA to expand European reach of Endoskeleton...

Under the agreement, Titan Spine will provide its spinal interbody fusion devices featuring its proprietary surface technology to MBA for distribution in Spain, Portugal, Andorra, Luxembourg, Belgium and the UK.

NuVasive to launch Integrated Global Alignment platform for select international markets...

Company to present technical exhibit and host workshop focused on achieving more precise spinal column alignment.

OsteoMed Spine launches the PrimaLIF lumbar lateral interbody fusion system

With the smallest initial diameter and five slim blade design, PrimaLIF LLIF provides "simplicity and security surgeons are looking for in a lateral system" according to an OsteoMed press release.

Signus launches the Diplomat pedicle screw system

Developed in cooperation with international spine experts, the Diplomat system is a posterior fixation system that provides user-friendly and reliable instrumentation for all spine treatments.

Providence Medical Technology announces new financing of US$12m

Providence DTRAX
As well as its new financing, the company has also announced the appointment of Jason Hoffman as vice president of global sales.

Amedica introduces the Valeo II lateral lumbar interbody fusion device system

The Valeo II is indicated for intervertebral body fusion of the spine in skeletally mature patients and is designed for use with autograft to facilitate fusion.

SI-Bone announces three publications on iFuse use for minimally invasive sacroiliac...

Results from prospective clinical trials demonstrate early and marked improvements in pain, disability and quality of life achieved at six months, which are sustained at one year.

New method for closing scoliosis surgery incision nearly eliminates all infections

The new technique reduces complication rates for complex cases where patients are most at risk of infections.

Remedy Pharmaceuticals initiates phase 2A study of Cirara in spinal cord...

Data from preclinical and human clinical studies has suggested that Remedy Pharmaceuticals' drug candidate, Cirara, inhibits spinal cord oedema and micro haemorrhage formation.

A quarter of US patients prescribed opioids progress to longer-term prescriptions

New research found that a quarter of patients progressed to long-term prescription, and that patients with histories of tobacco use and substance abuse were likeliest to use opioid painkillers long-term.

SeaSpine launches Ventura NanoMetalene interbody device

Ventura NanoMetalene, which is commercially available and has been successfully implanted, is indicated for use as an adjunct to fusion in patients with degenerative disc disease.

Zyga receives 510(k) clearance for SImmetry sacroiliac joint fusion system updates

The new procedural option allows surgeons to perform sacroiliac joint fusion through a single incision.

Prestige LP artificial cervical disc produces fusion-equivalent 24-month outcomes

Outcomes associated with Medtronic's Prestige LP artificial cervical disc are at least non-inferior to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) outcomes at 24 months, according to a new study published by the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine.

Hyun Bae

Hyun Bae began his medical studies at Columbia University, where he graduated with a degree in biomechanics. Having interacted with numerous medical students in Columbia's orthopaedics lab, he decided that orthopaedic medicine was the career path he wanted to follow.

Paradigm shift in blood management for surgery in metastatic spine diseases

Surgery for metastatic spine diseases is potentially complex, often requiring complex reconstruction resulting in prolonged operative times, leading to significant blood loss, writes Naresh Kumar.

The move towards nonopioid pain management

The high prevalence of opioid related adverse events and costly consequences to our society has prompted many to critically look at our practice of outpatient opioid prescription, writes Matthew J McGirt.

Paralysed men move legs with new non-invasive spinal cord stimulation

Five men with complete motor paralysis were able to voluntarily generate step-like movements thanks to a new strategy that non-invasively delivers electrical stimulation to their spinal cords.

Elderly spinal deformity patients recover from surgery significantly faster than younger...

A new study has come to the unexpected conclusion that elderly adult spinal deformity patients who undergo surgery recover significantly quicker than their younger counterparts. The study was published by the journal Spine.

NuVasive announces US settlement

Under the terms of the settlement agreement, the company will pay US$13.5m, plus fees and accrued interest.

Bacterin acquires X-spine Systems to create Xtant Medical

Bacterin International has purchased the outstanding shares of X-spine Systems in exchange for approximately 4.24 million shares of Bacterin common stock and approximately US$60m in cash.

Bracing for idiopathic adolescent scoliosis produces similar quality of life scores...

The study, led by Ane Simony, University of Southern Denmark, Denmark, and published by Scoliosis is one of very few studies focusing on long-term outcomes of brace treatment.

Minimally invasive lumbar laminotomy has no functional benefits at six or...

A new study published by The Spine Journal suggests that a minimally invasive approach produces no significant functional benefits when compared with a more traditional open procedure.

Spines of boys and girls differ at birth

The difference between genders aids in childbearing, but likely imparts a greater susceptibility for scoliosis and osteoporosis in females.

Centinel Spine implants first Stalif Midline II-Ti device

Centinel Spine has implanted its first two Stalif Midline II-Ti devices at Texas Health Plano, Plano and Florida Hospital Carrollwood, Tampa, USA.

Disc regeneration using embryonic stem cells

Clarkson University professor Thomas Lufkin, Bayard and Virginia Clarkson Endowed Chair of Biology, is working to reprogramme embryonic stems cells to become the fibrocartilage that separates the vertebrae.

Oxford Performance Materials receives FDA clearance for its SpineFab vertebral body...

OPM’s SpineFab device is a vertebral body replacement intended for use in the thoracolumbar regions of the spine to replace a collapsed, damaged, or unstable vertebral body due to tumour or trauma.

Chronic opioid therapy diminishes lumbar fusion outcomes in workers’ compensation patients

Extended opioid therapy following lumbar fusion surgery for US workers' compensation patients is associated with worse outcomes, a new study has found.

Clinical study shows advantages of sterile single-use instrumentation for lumbar fusion

A retrospective clinical study indicates that Safe Orthopaedics' Sterispine system results in reduced postoperative infection, morbidity and mortality.

Former professional rugby players have greater cervical spine degeneration than the...

Researchers have used clinical examinations and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies to determine whether retired professional rugby players experience more serious symptoms of cervical spine degeneration than the general population.

Musings of an octogenarian surgeon

In the context of the spinal surgery profession, the experienced surgeon has gained wisdom through experience, and is now ready to impart it to younger colleagues, writes Robert Mulholland.

Spinal manipulation for acute and sub-acute low back pain

According to Michael Schneider, the majority of patients with an acute episode of low back pain will not have any serious spinal abnormality or disease as the cause of their symptoms. Of these patients who seek treatment, most will be told they have non-specific mechanical back pain.

EOS imaging announces first US bracing facility installation

EOS imaging has completed the installation of an EOS imaging system at National Scoliosis Center, a Virginia-based scoliosis treatment clinic.

Orthopaedic and neurosurgeons produce similar spinal surgery outcomes

Spine surgeons, regardless of speciality, seem to achieve equivalent outcomes in mortality, 30-day readmission and surgical site infection rates, according to a new study, although there were notable differences in blood transfusion rates.

Removing outer surgical gloves may reduce spinal surgery infections

A study published by the Journal of Spinal Disorders and Techniques may provide a relatively simple method of reducing postoperative spinal surgery infections.

Potential risk factors for recurrence of low back pain identified

A new study has examined risk factors for recurring low back pain, identifying disc degeneration, the presence of high intensity zone and the number of previous episodes as potentially important risk factors.

Captiva Spine’s TowerLOX pedicle screw system receives clearance for enhanced rod...

Captiva Spine has received 510(K) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market its enhanced TowerLOX minimally invasive pedicle screw system.

Substantial reduction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis curvature at one-to-three years with...

The ApiFix system, which has now been used to correct scoliosis in 50 adolescents since the system was approved for marketing in Europe, has continued to demonstrate encouraging results at one-to-three years of follow-up with 25 patients.

Stryker Spine Launches LITe ALIF Procedural Solution

Stryker Spine has announced the launch of the LITe (Less Invasive Technologies) anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) Procedural Solution.

CollPlant executes non-binding term sheet to develop and commercialise an absorbable...

The new matrix is composed of CollPlant’s type 1 recombinant human collagen and synthetic minerals that mimic bone structure, and may be used in combination with bio-functional molecules.

Rivanna receives FDA clearance of its Accuro device

Accuro provides untethered ultrasound imaging to automatically guide spinal anaesthesia with additional indications for ultrasound imaging of abdominal, musculoskeletal, cardiac, and peripheral vascular anatomies.

Misonix launches faster SonicOne ultrasonic debridement procedure

The procedure is enabled by a single-use disposable debridement probe with increased ultrasonic amplitude that allows surgeons using the SonicOne to potentially reduce operating room time by up to 50%.

DeGen Medical launches F1 MPS modular pedicle screw system

The system addresses a range of surgical options, pre-assembled or modular screws, straight or curved rods, and titanium or cobalt-chrome rods and allows the surgeon intra-operative flexibility for bone grafting and screw placement.

New report suggests solutions to the financial burden of employee low...

The report looks at the effects of back pain in the workplace, as well as some of the proactive steps employers can take to reduce low back pain, including the implementation of gamification treatment to employee wellness programmes.

Pfizer begins phase 2b study of Staphylococcus aureus vaccine in adults...

The purpose of the study, named STRIVE, is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the vaccine to determine if it prevents postoperative invasive S aureus infections in patients undergoing elective spinal surgery.

Avoid misconceptions by educating patients and restoring the doctor-patient relationship

Cheerag Upadhyaya, Kate W-C Chang, Donald Tomford and Lynda J-S Yang discuss the evolution of the doctor-patient relationship, and what physicians can do re-establish a bond that has long comforted and healed patients.

Medtronic announces global launch of the CD Horizon Solera Voyager spinal...

The system expands upon the transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion procedure by offering multiple, minimally invasive rod insertion options and enabling a seamless 3D-navigated surgical experience.

Safe Orthopaedics releases the Auto-Adjust pedicle screw system

Safe Orthopaedics has announced the first use of its new Auto-Adjust pedicle screw in surgical procedures to repair thoracic and lumbar spine fractures.

ECA Medical Instruments develops single-procedure ratchet to reduce time and cost...

Disposable ratchet to provide surgeons in hospital and outpatient settings with a versatile instrument in sterile ready package that will shorten spine implant surgery times.

InVivo Therapeutics reports significant improvement of two Neuro-Spinal Scaffold patients

One patient has regained sacral sensation with improved bladder function and the other demonstrated marked improvement in sensory function with partial sensation present five dermatome levels lower on the right side.

Spineology introduces ACT MediaLIF platform for minimally invasive spine surgery

Platform includes full US release of new Fortress pedicular fixation system and Medius midline retractor system.

Older patients with traumatic spinal cord injuries less likely to get...

Time between injury to arrival at an acute care centre was roughly twice as long for older patients than younger patients.

K2M launches the Mesa 2 deformity spinal system in the USA

K2M has announced the US commercial launch of the Mesa 2 deformity spinal system, the company's next-generation pedicle screw system designed to address the most complex spinal pathologies.

Globus Medical announces Rise-L expandable lateral interbody fusion device

Rise-L is a vertically-expanding LLIF device designed to minimise impaction, maximise indirect decompression, and provide a large graft space optimal for fusion potential.

SpineGuard obtains regulatory clearance to sell PediGuard in China

The China spine market has become the second-largest market in spine after the USA and is projected to be worth over US$1bn by 2019.

Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty equally effective in reducing vertebral compression fracture pain...

A new study suggests that even though kyphoplasty is performed more frequently than vertebroplasty, the two procedures are equally effective in reducing pain and disability in vertebral compression fracture patients.

US lumbar posterolateral fusion procedure costs are lowest in the Midwest...

The Midwest recorded the lowest cost for PLF with the highest costs in the Northeast, and that the cost of procedures correlated with the average cost of living in each state, though not with the state's total population, according to a new study.

Centinel Spine is granted the first cervical multilevel indication for its...

The Stalif C product family had been previously cleared for use in conjunction with autograft or allogeneic bone graft at a single level in patients with degenerative disc disease of the cervical spine.

Medtech announces first sale of Rosa Spine robot in Europe

The first Rosa Spine robot was purchased by Amiens University Hospital in Amiens, France, a centre for the treatment of brain and spine disorders.

Zimmer completes combination with Biomet

Following the receipt of US Federal Trade Commission clearance, Zimmer has completed the acquisition of Biomet in a cash and equity transaction currently valued at approximately US$14bn.

Reducing radiation exposure during spine surgery

Radiation exposure due to the use of image intensifiers during spine surgery remains a significant source of potential harm for both patients and surgeons with potential long-term health issues such as cancer, suggests Sebastian Decker.

Wenzel Spine publishes positive clinical results for VariLift system

The paper, published in Medical Devices: Research and Evidence, provides an in-depth analysis of the VariLift system's design rational, functionality, and retrospective clinical results.

Signus launches the Ascot cervical plate

Along with Tosca and Tosca II Standard, Ascot is a new system that is now available in the USA, Europe and Australia for anterior stabilisation in interbody fusion.

Nanovis Spine receives FDA 510(k) clearance of its FortiBridge cervical plating...

Nanovis Spine's FortiBridge cervical plates are designed to complement the Nanovis' FortiCore cervical interbody implant system.

One third of adult spinal deformity patients experience implant-related complication

A study, published by the journal Spine, also found that just over one-half of patients suffering complications required a re-operation within two years of surgery, significantly affecting quality of life scores.

Smoking inhibits spinal cord healing following surgical treatment of cervical myelopathy

A study published ahead-of-print by the journal Spine suggests that smoking may have a directly toxic effect on the healing capability of the spinal cord, particularly if the patient in questions is a heavy smoker.

DePuy Synthes companies announces five-year cooperation agreement with the AO Foundation

DePuy Synthes spine logo
DePuy Synthes and the AO Foundation have been working together since 1960 to deliver professional education and develop new innovations that improve patient outcomes and increase efficiency of care.

Aesculap receives FDA approval for the activL artificial disc for one-level...

activL is the first lumbar artificial disc with a mobile ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene core that supports both controlled translational and rotational movement similar to the movement of the healthy lumbar spine.

Implanet enrols first patient in a major multicentre clinical study led...

Implanet has enrolled the first patient in a multicentre clinical protocol designed to study the medical value provided by the JAZZ Band in the treatment of instrumented thoracic and lumbar arthrodesis.

Centinel Spine granted allogeneic bone graft indication for its anterior lumbar...

Centinel Spine has been granted clearance by the FDA for its STALIF Midline, Midline II and Midline II-Ti (Ti-Active) devices for use with allogeneic bone graft in lumbar spinal fusion procedures.

Aurora Spine launches minimally invasive Vox lateral interbody system with TiNano

Vox is Aurora Spine's modern, minimally invasive lateral lumbar interbody fusion system featuring TiNano titanium spray coating technology, which will allow for bone ongrowth due to its porous structure.

FDA advisory committee panel not required for i-FACTOR premarket approval

An advisory committee panel meeting will not be required for the final review of the premarket approval application for i-FACTOR peptide enhanced bone graft.

ApiFix reaches 50-patient milestone with its minimally invasive adolescent idiopathic scoliosis...

ApiFix has announced that the company's minimally invasive ApiFix system has now been used to correct scoliosis in 50 adolescents since the system was approved for marketing in Europe.

Spine Journal 2015 Outstanding Paper: Basic Science

At the annual meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS, 12-15 November 2014, San Francisco, USA), Neil D Broom and Samantha A Rodrigues presented a paper on the annulus-endplate anchorage system and its mechanisms of failure.

The use of photographs can improve patient satisfaction following scoliosis surgery

Akif Albayrak writes that the use of pre- and postoperative patient photographs allows scoliosis patients a better perspective of surgical impact, thus enhancing their satisfaction with the treatment.

Stimwave receives FDA approval for IDE trial of Freedom system

Stimwave's trial will enrol 80 patients Freedom spinal cord stimulation system, which is based on an injectable microchip that delivers small pulses of energy to electrodes near surrounding nerves.

joimax launches iLESSYS Delta system for treatment of spinal stenosis at...

The iLESSYS Delta is suitable for dorsal and dorso lateral treatment of central spinal canal stenosis and enables a large area to be decompressed by means of the interlaminar access, guided by endoscopic-assisted vision.

Overall rate of US traumatic spinal cord injury remains stable

Between 1993 and 2012, the incidence rate of acute traumatic spinal cord injury remained relatively stable in the USA, although there was an increase among older adults, mostly associated with an increase in falls, according to a study in JAMA.

StemCells commences second cohort of the Pathway study in cervical spinal...

The phase II study is designed to assess the potential of human neural stem cells to restore motor function.

InVivo Therapeutics announces enrolment of third patient in pilot spinal cord...

A third patient has been enrolled in InVivo Therapeutics' ongoing pilot trial of its investigational Neuro-Spinal Scaffold in patients with acute spinal cord injury at the Carolinas Medical Center, USA.

Intelligent Implant Systems announces US Patent for Revolution spinal system

Revolution is based on improving the thoraco-lumbar spinal fusion implant procedure by eliminating complicated reusable non-sterile instrument trays and replacing them with one easy-to-use disposable instrument tray.

Expanding Orthopedics announces the 100th implantation of FLXfit 3D expandable cage

Expanding Orthopedics FLXfit
Dom Coric of Carolina Neurosurgery and Spine Associates, Charlotte, USA, has successfully implanted Expanding Orthopedics' 100th FLXfit, an in-situ articulating with lordosis correction cage.

ApiFix elects Ted Bird as chairman of the board

Bird is chief development officer at the Medical University of South Carolina Institute for Applied Neurosciences, USA. Previously, he was president of Orthofix Spine Fixation.

Misonix introduces new 25mm BoneScalpel blade

The BoneScalpel is an ultrasonic bone-cutting instrument that provides surgeons a clean, controlled bone incision and removal that is also soft-tissue sparing.

Preoperative patient anxiety and depression reduces impact of cervical radiculopathy surgery

Martin Skeppholm told delegates at the Cervical Spine Research Society European Section meeting that patients with preoperative anxiety and depression see worse self-assessed outcomes following cervical radiculopathy surgery.

NASS recommends positive coverage policy for iFuse sacroiliac joint fusion

The coverage policy is based on 19 clinical studies, from which the committee concluded that the sacroiliac joint is an established source of chronic low back and that joint fusion has proven to be relatively safe.

FDA approves ViMove for expanded use in the USA

This expanded functionality and labelling permits the use of ViMove to display lower back and pelvic range of motion from healthy patients for the first time in the USA.

Michael Fehlings

Michael Fehlings was encouraged to enter the medical profession by his grandfather. He cites the intellectual and technical challenges of neuroscience and precise surgery combined with the ability to help individuals as his role's most appealing aspects.

VertiFlex receives FDA PMA approval for Superion interspinous spacer

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a pre-market approval (PMA) order for Vertiflex's Superion interspinous spacer system, clearing the way for commercialisation in the USA.

Study suggests that Benvenue Medical’s Kiva system offers cost and resource...

Pain Physician journal publishes results showing lower risk for adjacent-level spine fractures and fewer reoperations with Kiva system.

NuVasive appoints Gregory T Lucier as chief executive officer

Lucier, who has been serving as interim chief executive officer since 1 April, will continue as chairman of the NuVasive board of directors.

TheraCell appoints Gunnar Andersson to board of directors and surgeon advisory...

Andersson is the Ronald L DeWald professor and chairman emeritus of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Rush University Medical Center and a surgeon at Midwest Orthopedics at Rush in Chicago, USA.

Medtech receives Australian marketing authorisation for ROSA and signs distribution agreement...

The company signed a distribution contract for Australia and New Zealand with Surgicom, a company specialising in the distribution and marketing of innovative medical devices, particularly in orthopaedics.

CE mark and FDA clearance for Implanet’s new JAZZ diameters

The clearance covers Implanet’s 3.5mm, 4mm, 4.5mm and 6mm JAZZ rods, adding to the original 5.5mm diameter clearance.

First operation with individualised 3D-printed cervical titanium implant completed

The operation was planned and executed by Uwe Spetzger, professor and chairman of the Department of Neurosurgery of the Klinikum Karlsruhe in Germany.

Oral steroids for acute sciatica produce limited improvement in function and...

Among patients with acute sciatica caused by acute radiculopathy, a short course of oral steroids resulted in only modest improvement in function and none in pain, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

InVivo Therapeutics reports update of first two spinal cord injury patients...

The Neuro-Spinal Scaffold was implanted in the first patient in October 2014 at the Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, USA, and in the second patient in January 2015 at the Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, USA.

EOS imaging launches EOS 3D Service

Montreal-based online modelling service to provide personalised 3D data from EOS Stereo-Radiographic patient images.

New Halyard ON-Q data show reductions in opioid consumption and length...

Decreased length of stay and reduction in narcotic use cited as benefits of treatment with ON-Q in inpatient and outpatient settings.

Top 100 papers in lumbar spine surgery reflect trends in low...

Samuel K Cho and colleagues of Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, USA, performed a literature review to analyse and quantify the most important research papers on lumbar spine surgery.

Paradigm Spine announces publication of long-term coflex results

"Therapeutic sustainability and durability of coflex Interlaminar Stabilization after decompression for lumbar spinal stenosis: a four year assessment" was published in the International Journal of Spine Surgery.

INSITE trial receives Leon L Wiltse Award for best paper at...

The award, sponsored by Hansen Yuan and his wife, is voted on by the committee chairs each year and is based on a combination of quality of submitted abstract and podium presentation.

Non-fusion alternatives to traditional fusion in elderly patients

The indications for fusion in elderly patients are often not definitive. Alternatives to fusion have thus emerged including interspinous devices and dynamic stabilisation, writes Scott L Blumenthal.

Bony decompression remains the gold standard for treating lumbar spinal stenosis

The use of surgical interspinous implants has been a controversial subject. Wouter A Moojen writes that the efficacy of such devices should be challenged in order to adhere to medical ethical standards and protect patients.

Medtech announces the sale of three ROSA surgical robots in Asia

Two of the three ROSA systems were sold in China, a key driver in Asia and one of Medtech's target markets for growth, while the third was sold in India.

The potential of augmented vertebroplasty in treating extreme vertebral fractures

Alexis Kelekis and Dimitrios Filippiadis write that augmented vertebroplasty could offer improved mechanical and structural support compared with standard vertebroplasty in the treatment of extreme vertebral fractures.

Patient-reported three-month spine surgery outcomes do not reliably predict results at...

Matthew J McGirt presented research on patient-reported outcomes at three-months during the 2015 American Association of Neurological Surgeons Annual Scientific Meeting.

Vancomycin powder may protect against surgical site infection, though the most...

The data came from a meta-analysis presented by Nickalus R Khan, at 2015 American Association of Neurological Surgeons Annual Scientific Meeting.

Ellipse Technologies’ external remote controller for MAGEC system receives FDA clearance

The company says that the ERC 2 provides improved ergonomic handling and greatly enhanced user interfaces over the first generation ERC.

Nexxt Spine announces full market release of Struxxure anterior cervical plating...

Struxxure is an ultra-low profile anterior cervical plate with a design rationale to help minimise the risk of adjacent-level ossification.

Medtronic announces launch of Divergence standalone interbody cage

The device is now commercially available for the treatment of anterior cervical interbody fusion procedures in skeletally mature patients with cervical disc disease at one level from the C2-C3 disc to the C7-T1 disc.

Integra LifeSciences appoints new SeaSpine chief executive officer and chief financial...

SeaSpine Holdings Corporation will be an independent, publicly traded company following the completion of its spin-off from Integra.

Medicrea announces US launch of LigaPASS band system for spinal posterior...

The latest generation system includes improved surgical capabilities and expanded Food and Drug Administration indications.

Medtronic receives FDA clearance for Zevo anterior cervical plate system

This system is now commercially available for the treatment of cervical degenerative disc disease, trauma, tumours, deformity, pseudoarthrosis, and/or failed previous fusions.

First US and international surgical implantations of ZIP 51 interspinous implant...

The US surgery was performed at NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital in Jonesboro by Rebecca Barrett-Tuck and the international surgery was performed at the Protestant Hospital in Göttingen, Germany by Christian Reparon.

Mazor Robotics’ guidance system completes 10,000th procedure

The Renaissance Guidance System was launched in mid-2012 and is being used by orthopaedic and neurosurgeons to perform a range of spine and brain surgeries.

Brainlab Introduces new generation of volumetric arc therapy at ESTRO

Brainlab has introduced new automated stereotactic radiosurgery planning tools at ESTRO 2015 which enable improvised generation of consistent treatment plans for volumetric arc therapy delivery.

Diagnosing chronic pain using evidence-based medicine will improve outcomes and reduce...

Low back injuries are the most costly musculoskeletal condition in US workers’ compensation claims, representing 20-25% of all costs.

EOS imaging announces first installation in Hong Kong

The Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) has become the first hospital in Hong Kong to install the EOS system.

Meditech Spine uses Invibio PEEK-OPTIMA HA Enhanced for new cervical intervertebral...

Meditech Spine’s cervical intervertebral fusion devices "the Talos line "rely on the novel implantable polymer from Invibio Biomaterial Solutions, PEEK-OPTIMA HA Enhanced.

Safe Orthopaedics announces European launch of its range of fenestrated screws...

Having recently been granted CE mark, Safe Orthopaedics' fenestrated screw has lateral windows enabling cement to be injected into osteoporotic vertebra in order to strengthen the screw's anchoring to the bone.

Implanet announces clinical results for JAZZ Band use in idiopathic scoliosis...

This study represents the final phase of the JAZZ Band's clinical validation and highlights its safety and efficiency in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis.

Data demonstrate reduced subsidence of Endoskeleton titanium interbody fusion implants compared...

The study compared the subsidence rate and overall subsidence amount of Titan Spine's Endoskeleton TA device with a commercially-available PEEK device at the annual meeting of ISASS.

New software helps improve surgical safety

Results from its first clinical evaluation show that the LevelCheck software achieves 100% accuracy in 26 seconds.

Zimmer announces extension of outside date for pending Biomet merger

The outside date for completing the proposed merger has been extended from 24 April to 23 July, 2015.

NASS launches new features for SpineConnect

NASS members and attendees of NASS meetings can now post cases and images, share knowledge and ask questions of thousands of spine experts from around the world.

Mazor Robotics reports orders for three Renaissance systems in Q1 2015

In the USA, the Renaissance system was purchased by Arrowhead Hospital, located in Glendale. Internationally, the systems were installed at hospitals in Germany and Taiwan.

OfferBoard Securities announces Series B financing for Atlas Spine solutions

Atlas Spine has announced a plan to raise US$5m through OfferBoard Securities to further its existing business and monetise its patented portfolio of spinal implant product systems.

Physical therapy and surgery produce the same results for stenosis in...

Lumbar spinal stenosis symptoms were relieved and function improved in as many patients utilising physical therapy as those undergoing surgical treatment, University of Pittsburgh researchers have shown in a new study.

Data suggesting that PEEK produces an inflammatory environment favouring cell death...

Specifically, the data, published in Spine, show that fibrous tissue formation around PEEK implants "may be due to the creation of an inflammatory environment."

Microdecompression is equivalent to open laminectomy for central stenosis of the...

A new study was undertaken to examine the case for minimally invasive microdecompression as the authors believed that the general surgical trend towards minimally invasive procedures has not been backed by solid evidence.

Heidi Prather

Heidi Prather was appointed President of the North American Spine Society (NASS) at its most recent Annual Meeting in November 2014. She spoke to Spinal News International about her career to date and the goals of her presidential term.

Minimally invasive surgery with perioperative non-opioid analgesics could be “a game...

Michael Wang has pioneered the awake minimally invasive TLIF using the liposomal bupivacaine Exparel. He spoke to Spinal News International about why the combination of Exparel and minimally invasive methods could change the nature of spinal surgery.

Excessive mobile technology use is damaging the cervical spine

Kenneth K Hansraj wrote for Spinal News International following the publication of his study, "Assessment of stresses in the cervical spine caused by posture and position of the head", which made waves worldwide.

Myelopathy is associated with increased all-cause morbidity and mortality following ACDF

The authors of a new study used the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database to identify 5,256 ACDFs carried out from 2010-2012, of which 1,425 were performed for cervical myelopathy.

Phone counselling reduces pain and disability after spinal surgery

Research at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA, suggests that a short series of phone conversations with trained counsellors can substantially boost recovery and reduce pain in patients after spinal surgery.

NuVasive chief executive officer resigns following board investigation

An independent investigation overseen by the NuVasive board found that Alex Lukianov had not complied with company expense reimbursement and personnel policies.

Paracetamol is ineffective in the treatment of low back pain

Researchers reviewed the results of 13 randomised trials comparing the efficacy and safety of paracetamol with placebo for spinal pain (neck or low back pain).

Daiichi Sankyo Inc and Asubio Pharmaceuticals merge

Asubio Pharmaceuticals’ parent company, Asubio Pharma Co, which is based in Japan, will continue to operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Daiichi Sankyo Co, with a focus on discovery research.

A quarter of opioids prescribed for chronic pain are being misused...

New estimates suggest that 20-30% of opioid analgesic drugs prescribed for chronic pain are misused, while the rate of opioid addiction is approximately 10%, reports a study in PAIN journal.

PCM replacement disk surgery offers superior outcomes to ACDF

The PCM cervical disk has been suggested as a motion-preserving alternative to an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion procedure, which in fusing the affected portion of the spine reduces motion.

European Commission clears Zimmer’s pending Biomet merger

The transaction remains subject to clearance by the US Federal Trade Commission, as well as other customary closing conditions. Zimmer expects the deal to be completed in April 2015.

Benvenue Medical signs group purchasing agreement With Novation for the Kiva...

The Kiva system was selected through the Novation Innovative Technology programme, which is designed to ensure that members have access to innovative health care technology.

Varian Medical spotlights New Edge radiosurgery suite for non-invasive surgical procedures

The Edge radiosurgery suite is a technology system for rapidly delivering precise, non-invasive surgical procedures in the treatment of cancer of the areas that are typically difficult to treat surgically, such as the brain and spine.

InVivo reopens enrolment for subjects for anticipated completion of ongoing pilot...

Barring significant safety issues, the final three subjects of this pilot trial will be enrolled concurrently and without mandatory safety hold between enrolment of each subject.

First patient implant of Arena-C HA Enhanced cervical intervertebral body fusion...

The Arena-C HA with PEEK-OPTIMA HA Enhanced, manufactured by SpineFrontier, is a spinal implant device that is produced with a "revolutionary" new biomaterial to enhance spinal fusion technology.

Zimmer debuts new modular external fixation system

Available in both small (6mm) and large (11mm) systems, the XtraFix external fixation system from Zimmer is a modular system that offers surgeons advances in design technology and materials.

K2M announces 510(k) clearance of the Nile alternative fixation spinal system

Nile features low-profile implants and ergonomic instruments intended to provide stabilisation between the spine and the rod, allowing for reduction, translation, compression and distraction while sparing the anatomy.

Stryker Spine receives FDA clearance for new lumbar plating system

The LITe plate system will be featured at booth #443 during the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting (24-28 March, Las Vegas, USA).

DePuy Synthes expands adult deformity offering with four new products

The company introduced the Expedium osteotomy system for spinal reconstruction, Viper cortical fix X-Tabs for fixation in percutaneous surgery, Vivigen cellular bone matrix and enhancements to the Synapse system.

Stryker to launch BIO4 at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons...

BIO4 possesses all four characteristics involved in bone repair and regeneration: osteoconductive, osteoinductive, osteogenic and angiogenic.

Implanet announces publication of a cost effectiveness study of the Jazz...

The study found approximately US$11,700 of incremental profit per adolescent idiopathic scoliosis procedure using a Jazz hybrid construct.

X-spine launches anterior lumbar standalone fusion system

Irix-A combines a polymer body with an integrated titanium ring for added strength and durability, a titanium plasma coating of bone-apposing surfaces and a locking mechanism for screw fixation.

Japan Fair Trade Commission clears pending Zimmer-Biomet merger

Under the terms of the merger agreement announced on April 24, 2014, Zimmer will acquire Biomet in a cash and stock transaction valued at approximately US$13.35bn, including the assumption of net debt.

Stryker Spine launching new anterior cervical plating system

Stryker is launching Tempus, its new anterior cervical plating system during the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Annual Meeting (24-28 March, Las Vegas, USA).

Spinal surgery diminishes low back pain and improves sexual function

Research presented at the 2015 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that 70% of chronic low back pain patients consider sexual activity relevant to their life quality.

Acrylic cages are good alternatives to bone graft and PEEK in...

In a new study, an acrylic cage produced improved fusion rates and disk space height compared with a PEEK cage, and was also significantly cheaper.

Intellirod Spine announces licensing milestone in development of spinal sensor

Intellirod Spine has entered into licensing and distribution agreements with X-spine Systems to utilise X-spine Fortex implants in conjunction with Intellirod’s forthcoming Loadpro disposable microelectronic sensor.

Patient misconceptions concerning lumbar spondylosis diagnosis and treatment persist

As expectations of treatment can influence clinical outcomes, the authors of a new study write that identification of these misconceptions is critical to providing informed and quality healthcare.

John Dahldorf joins Benvenue Medical as chief financial officer

As chief financial officer at Benvenue Medical, Dahldorf will partner with the senior management team to help shape the company's long-term strategy and ensure capital needs are met.

Physician workforce projections show that the US doctor shortage remains significant

Within the overall projected physician shortage, the study estimates a shortage of 12,000-31,000 primary care physicians, and a shortfall of 28,000-63,000 non-primary care physicians.

joimax receives 510(k) clearance for Percusys pedicle screw-rod system

The Percusys system is a multi-functional implant for use during spinal stabilisation procedures, allowing flexibility to perform surgery through a percutaneous, minimally invasive or open approach.

Simplify cervical artificial disc receives IDE approval

Investigational device exemption trial approval follows recent CE mark approval, with initial EU/Asia Pacific commercialisation to begin this year.

Robotic assistance improves spine tumour surgery accuracy and safety

This study used Mazor Robotics' Renaissance device, which guides the surgeon in the placement of spinal instrumentation according to a preoperatively-planned trajectory.

Complications in minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion remain rare with...

The perioperative complication rate across all 531 patients was reported at 15.6% (n=80), and the incidence of durotomy "the most common complication "was 5.1%

Stimwave announces first full body 3-Tesla MRI conditional neuromodulation medical implantable...

Stimwave's Wireless Pain Relief technology, the Freedom stimulator, means that chronic pain patients are able to have 3-Tesla full body magnetic resonance imaging examinations with the device implanted.

Stem cell transplant shows promise for treatment of degenerative disc disease

Stem cell transplant was viable and effective in halting or reversing degenerative disc disease of the spine, a meta-analysis of animal studies showed, in a development expected to open up research in humans.

Life Spine announces FDA clearance of transition connector implants to thoracolumbar...

The clearance includes domino, in-line, and wedding band rod-to-rod connectors, open and closed offsets, and "U-shaped" connectors.

Superion interspinous process spacer found to be as effective and less...

The FDA investigational device exemption study, published by The Spine Journal, involved 391 randomised patients at 29 sites in the USA between August 2008 and December 2011.

EOS imaging announces first Belgian installation

A second EOS system will be installed later in 2015 in the University Hospitals Gasthuisberg campus, making the Leuven network the second European hospital network to acquire multiple EOS imaging systems.

First Glyder facet restoration surgery completed in Cyprus

The device was implanted to address new-onset facet joint pain in a patient with a previous total disc replacement.

SpineGuard and Zavation announce first US co-development partnership for the Smart...

The co-development partnership is for the integration of SpineGuard's Dynamic Surgical Guidance technology into Zavation's pedicle screw system.

SI-Bone reaches 15,000 iFuse procedure milestone

Over 900 surgeons have now performed the iFuse procedure in the USA and 17 countries across Europe.

Adolescent lumbar disk herniation patients are more satisfied with surgical outcomes...

In a new study 86% of adolescents were satisfied with the outcome of surgery compared to 78% in the younger adults and 76% in the older adults group.

Providence Medical Technology granted CE mark for DTRAX line of cervical...

Providence DTRAX
Providence Medical Technology has obtained CE mark for its DTRAX spinal system, DTRAX cervical cage, and DTRAX bone screw.

VertiFlex announces FDA Advisory Panel support for the Superion interspinous spacer

The Superion interspinous spacer system is a minimally invasive spinal implant designed to treat moderate lumbar spinal stenosis.

InVivo announces new Neuro-Spinal Scaffold clinical trial site

Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin has been added in the company's ongoing investigational device exemption pilot study of its Neuro-Spinal Scaffold in patients with acute spinal cord injury.

Interbody fusion more cost-effective with better functional outcomes than posterolateral fusion

When second reoperations were included, the cost-effectiveness ratios suggest moderate long-term cost savings and better functional outcomes with the interbody fusion.

Manual-thrust manipulation offers best improvements for acute and subacute low back...

Though manual-thrust manipulation provided greater short-term reductions in disability and pain scores compared with mechanical-assisted manipulation and usual medical care, any significant differences were short-term and lasted no longer than three months.

3D bone printing for the spine

3D bioprinting of a living bone construct can be used for more effective spinal fusion in the treatment of a collapsed vertebra, using areas with bone forming cells and areas for vascularisation.

Direct repair surgery with screw fixation for young lumbar spondylolysis patients...

The study found that although both the intensity and frequency of lower back pain had significantly improved at final follow-up compared with preoperative level, pain frequency tended to worsen after six months.

Medtronic receives expanded indications of the Vertex reconstruction system

The Vertex system is now FDA cleared for lateral mass and pedicle screw fixation in the posterior cervical spine.

Simplify Medical announces CE mark for MRI-compatible cervical artificial disc

The disk has endplates designed to be more compliant with the vertebral bodies under loading common to the cervical spine and includes disc heights as small as 4mm for smaller patient anatomy.

Study supports use of i-FACTOR as alternative to autograft in chronic...

i-FACTOR biologic bone graft features synthetic small peptide (P-15) technology that supports bone growth through cell attachment and osteoblast differentiation.

Minimally invasive electrical muscle stimulation corrects spinal curvature in children

The StimulAIS Project aims to introduce alternative scoliosis treatments based on electrical muscle stimulation of deep paraspinal rotator muscles "a technique known as functional electrical stimulation.

Amedica submits 510(k) application for interbody spacers with porous silicon nitride...

Pursuant to Section 510(k), the FDA has 90 days in which to clear the class II medical device for commercial distribution or to seek additional information.

SpineGuard and Neuro France Implants in co-development partnership for the first...

SpineGuard's Dynamic Surgical Guidance technology will be embedded into Neuro France Implants' pedicle screw system to provide unprecedented accuracy, enhance the surgical work flow, and match health economic trends.

Nanotherapeutics’ NanoFUSE demineralised bone matrix receives expanded 510(K) marketing clearance

Bone void filler product is cleared for use in spinal fusion surgery.

Spinal sealant system provides better intraoperative watertight closure than standard of...

The study used a low-swell PEG hydrogel sealant as an adjunct to sutured dural repair and compared it to standard of care methods of obtaining watertight dural closure in subjects undergoing spinal surgery.

Medtronic agrees US$2.8m False Claims Act settlement

Prosecutors alleged that the company made illegal payments to physicians in 20 US states from 2007-2011 in exchange for recommendations of procedures that were neither safe nor effective.

First spinal fusion patient treated with Luna 360 interbody fusion system

The Luna 360 system is designed to be inserted in a linear, elongated state to minimise tissue retraction and protect the neural structures.

Expanding Orthopedics presents FLXfit at ArgoSpine

Expanding Orthopedics FLXfit
Expanding Orthopedics has announced that the FLXfit 3D articulated and lordotic expandable interbody cage was presented at the ArgoSpine Meeting in Paris, France.

First surgical implant of ZIP ULTRA interspinous device performed in Switzerland

The ZIP ULTRA implant consists of the "One-Step" locking mechanism, which eliminates the use of a set screw, articulating spikes and various sizes to accommodate variations in patient anatomy.

ChoiceSpine aquires VEO lateral access and interbody fusion system

The VEO system is designed to treat degenerative disc disease through a minimally invasive lateral approach, and is the first of five new products that ChoiceSpine plans to launch in 2015.

Spinal decompression and fusion to relieve pain from spinal stenosis

Loyola Medicine orthopaedic surgeon Bartosz Wojewnik performs spinal decompression and fusion surgery to bring his patient immediate pain relief.

EOS imaging announces corporate agreement with the Shriners Hospitals for children

Facilitates acquisition process of the EOS system throughout Shriners' network of 22 paediatric hospitals.

Nevro receives expanded MR-conditional labelling for Senza system in Europe and...

Senza is the first implantable spinal cord stimulator system that is 3 Tesla MRI-compatible.

Lumbar discectomy efficacy is diminished with revision surgeries

By the third discectomy patients were reporting falling quality-life adjusted years scores.

The sedimentation sign is associated with spinal stenosis surgical treatment outcomes

The authors carried out their analysis in response to studies have suggested that positive sedimentation sign on magnetic resonance image may be a possible prognostic indicator.

Implanet secures European intellectual protection for its JAZZ technology

The patent applies to the entire JAZZ system and definitively secures full protection of the implant's technical characteristics.

Precision Spine recieves FDA clearance for Reli SP spinous plating system

The company also announced that its Reform pedicle screw system has received expanded indications from the FDA.

Misonix acquires remaining Bonescalpel business from Aesculap

The BoneScalpel is an ultrasonic surgical system used for tissue-selective bone dissection that encourages en bloc bone removal and refined osteotomies while sparing elastic soft tissue.

Amedica given FDA clearance for two-level cervical interbody cage indications

Clearance is based on data showing the company's silicon nitride devices used in multi-level procedures are as safe and effective as other devices used in single level procedures.

SpineGuard receives EU patent for its Smart Screw

SpineGuard's proprietary technology platform, already used in its PediGuard product, enables surgeons to place pedicle screws "more safely and accurately".

DePuy Synthes Spine expands indication for Synapse occipital-cervical-thoracic system

First screw-rod occipital-cervical-thoracic system cleared for the use of screws in the posterior cervical spine.

Spinal cord injury patients exhibit an increased risk of acute myocardial...

The findings may have broad implications for the surveillance of spinal cord injury patients.

BMI is a risk factor for adjacent segment disease in lumbar...

Although adjacent segment disease is an important complication after fusion of degenerative lumbar spines, the role of BMI in adjacent segment disease "has been addressed less".

Cerapedics receives CE mark and TGA listing for i-FACTOR Flex FR...

P-15 bone graft technology now features enhanced handling with addition of purified silk fibres.

Medtronic completes acquisition of Covidien

Under the terms of the acquisition agreement, Medtronic Inc and Covidien plc are now combined under Medtronic plc.

Tranexamic acid reduces surgical bleeding in spine surgery without increased risks

Tranexamic acid is a lysine analogue which inhibits activation of plasminogen and has shown to be beneficial in reducing surgical blood loss.

EOS imaging receives FDA clearance for Micro Dose

Micro Dose option brings paediatric spine follow-up imaging exams equivalent in dose to one week of natural background radiation.

InVivo update of first acute spinal cord injury subject implanted with...

In the time between implantation and the three-month post-injury assessment, there were no reported serious adverse events associated with the Neuro-Spinal Scaffold.

Mainstay Medical applies to start US clinical trial of ReActiv8

ReActiv8 is an implantable neurostimulation device designed to treat people with disabling chronic low back pain for whom conventional therapy has not been successful and for whom surgery is not indicated.

The Medicines Company receives CHMP positive opinion for Raplixa sealant powder

Raplixa is a ready-to-use, biologically active, powdered fibrin sealant that provides haemostasis in a wide range of bleeding settings.

Titan Spine records significant growth with over 27,000 implanted fusion devices

These figures reflect a significant growth over the past year with the continuing adoption of its spinal interbody fusion devices featuring proprietary surface technology by surgeons.

Aesculap introduces the ProSpace XP lumbar interbody system

The ProSpaceXP is an optimum fusion of the osteoconductive PlasmaporeXP coating and PEEK-Optima core for enhanced implant stability, artifact-free imaging, and an osteoconductive scaffold for PLIF procedures.

Nevro receives FDA approvable letter for Senza spinal cord stimulation system

According to the approvable letter, approval of the PMA is subject to satisfaction of regulatory inspections and audits of manufacturing facilities, methods and controls for Senza.

ISO 13485 and CE mark for Dymicron’s Triadyme-C cervical total disc...

These certifications will now allow for the commercialisation of the Orthopedic Diamond cervical disc in the European Union and other countries around the world that recognise the CE mark approval process.

Obese patients have an increased rate of incidental durotomy in lumbar...

the trend of growing rates of obesity in the wider population means that the risks of incidental durotomy will increase as time goes on, as will other obesity-related surgical complications.

Interleukin 4 may assist in developing treatment for central nervous system...

Interleukin 4 helps protect the body's neurons and promote their regeneration, whereas uncontrolled inflammation can destroy them.

The use of photographs can improve patient satisfaction following scoliosis surgery

Patients in the first group were shown the preoperative and most recent follow-up photographs, while patients in the second group underwent routine evaluation but without being shown their photographs.

FDA clears K2M MESA 2 Deformity Spinal System

K2M says that the MESA 2 is the company’s next-generation pedicle screw system designed to address the most complex spinal pathologies.

Spinal Elements set to launch cervical Ti-Bond-coated implants following FDA approval

The use of Ti-Bond results in a porous titanium bone-opposing surface while allowing for direct visualisation of the fusion mass through the radiolucent PEEK material.

Myelopathy linked with increased all-cause morbidity and mortality following ACDF

Led by Adam M Lukasiewicz, Yale School of Medicine, USA, the retrospective cohort study examined a total of 5,256 ACDF patients who underwent surgery from 2010-2012.

First ROSA Spine robot procedure completed in France

Assisted by the ROSA Spine robot, the surgical team implanted four pedicle screws with a minimally invasive technique, whilst reducing radiation exposure for the patient and health care staff in the operating room.

Texas Back Institute performs first US FLXfit 3D expandable interbody cage...

Expanding Orthopedics FLXfit
Expanding Orthopedics has announced that the first US surgery with the FLXfit 3D expandable interbody cage, has been successfully performed by John Peloza at the Texas Back Institute in Dallas, USA.

Spinal Simplicity receives FDA clearance for Minuteman

The a pre-packaged sterile supplemental posterior fixation system offers a minimally invasive alternative to pedicle screws and other spinous process plates that are placed in open procedures.

ECA Medical Instruments’ disposable instrument fixation kit gains FDA approval with...

The sterile-packed kit features a full complement of fixation instruments in a single sterile packed tray including proprietary and cannulated torque-limiters, ratchets and fixed drivers.

Updated guidelines for fusion procedures in the lumbar spine

Michael G Kaiser reviews the key differences between the update of the AANS/CNS Joint Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves guidelines for fusion procedures for degenerative disease of the lumbar spine and the original guidelines.

Lumbar spinal stenosis successfully treated with lumbar spinous process-splitting laminoplasty

The study used a modified version of the LSPSL procedure in which laminoplasty is performed as an alternative to laminectomy.

Interbody spacers with silicon nitride centre provide equivalent fusion to PEEK...

Amedica's CASCADE study enrolled 104 patients in a prospective clinical trial that independently scored fusion rates and clinical outcomes at 12 months follow-up.

FDA clearance and first clinical use of Valorem Surgical’s MaxiMIS spinal...

The MaxiMIS will be in limited market release through the end of Q1 2015 and is planned for full launch in Q2 2015.

Decompression surgery for degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis effective in patients over...

Swiss investigation suggests that lumbar decompression surgery could improve patient satisfaction for those over 80 years of age as much as for younger patients.

Posterior revision decompression and lumbar fusion surgery of the spine

John J Carbone, MedStar Harbor Hospital, Baltimore, USA, performs a posterior revision decompression and lumbar fusion surgery of the spine.

PorOsteon announces FDA clearance of the Phusion Metal cervical cage

The Phusion Metal cervical cage is designed to maximise bone growth through a fully interconnected porous structure and matching the modulus of living cancellous bone.

Benvenue Medical appoints Rick Simmons to lead growth of Luna franchise

Simmons brings more than 30 years of experience in medical devices and a deep knowledge of the spine industry, having held leadership roles at several well-respected companies in the category.

Surgical and nonsurgical spinal stenosis treatment outcomes similar after eight years

While earlier reports suggested an advantage of surgery, the updated analysis finds no significant difference in pain, functioning, and disability at eight years' follow-up.

Paramed presents new MROpen applications

The new clinical applications will utilise MROpen in interventional MRI procedure as well as in hybrid integrated operating rooms to assess the outcome of neurosurgery and spine surgery in real time.

Osiris and Stryker enter strategic partnership to market Osiris’ viable bone...

The agreement provides Stryker with exclusive, worldwide rights to Osiris' viable bone matrix under the name BIO4.

K2M announces completion of first surgery using Capri corpectomy cage system

The Capri system is intended for use in the thoracolumbar spine (T1 to L5) to replace collapsed, damaged or unstable vertebral bodies due to tumor or trauma.

StemCells transplants first participant in phase II clinical trial in cervical...

Pathway study to assess the potential of human neural stem cells to restore motor function

ProCure Proton Therapy Center celebrates the 1,000th patient to complete treatment

The 1,000th patient underwent proton therapy treatment following several unsuccessful surgeries.

First European approval for implant made of PEEK-OPTIMA HA Enhanced

Implants made from the PEEK-OPTIMA HA Enhanced implantable polymer have received their first CE mark approval, granted to implants supplied by the Karmed Saglik Group for the treatment of degenerative spinal conditions.

InVivo announces FDA approval to expedite enrolment for ongoing pilot trial

Under the new plan InVivo will submit two months of safety data on its Neuro-Spinal Scaffold to the FDA for the first subject enrolled in October.

Commonly prescribed painkiller may not be effective in controlling lower back...

A study published in the journal Neurology shows that pregabalin is not effective in controlling the pain associated with lumbar spinal stenosis.

Dorsal root ganglion identified as a promising target for neuromodulation

At the 18th annual NANS congress, researchers presented 20 scientific abstracts highlighting clinical results of the Axium neurostimulator system for the treatment of chronic pain.

Stimwave launches chronic pain trial for neuromodulation device

Stimwave has announced initiation of a clinical study of its wireless high frequency stimulator for the treatment of chronic, non-specific origin low back pain.

Second 3D printed vertebrae implantation procedure successful

A second patient has received 3D implanted vertebrae in a successful procedure at Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China.

SDRI appoints joimax as exclusive distributor for Synergy cervical disc in...

SDRI enters into a five-year agreement with joimax GmbH for exclusive rights to market and distribute the company's Synergy family of products in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

NASS updates guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis

Nass Spine Registry
The North American Spine Society has published new guidelines to help spine care specialists diagnose and treat degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis.

Low-dose stereo-radiography can provide reliable global 3D quantitative analysis

Brice Ilharreborde tells Spinal News International that low-dose stereoradiography can now reliably provide a global 3D quantitative analysis of scoliotic deformities in a context of routine clinical use.

Data demonstrate long-term, low back pain relief with Boston Scientific Precision...

New retrospective data evaluating the Precision Spectra spinal cord stimulator system demonstrate sustained and significant relief of low back pain 12 months after implantation.

Titan Spine receives 510(k) clearance for nanoLOCK surface technology

Titan Spine has received 510(k) clearance from the US FDA to market its Endoskeleton line of interbody fusion implants featuring its nanoLOCK surface technology.

Chronic low-back pain research standards announced by NIH task force

The National Health Institute (NIH) Task Force on Research Standards for Chronic Low-Back Pain has published new back-pain research standards.

Aesculap’s S4 Element MIS system wins best new technology award

Aesculap Implant Systems' S4 Element MIS system has been recently named 2014's Best New Technology for Minimally Invasive Spine Care by Orthopedics This Week.

Patient satisfaction following spinal care could be linked to age, education...

A study presented at the annual meeting of the Cervical Spine Research Society suggests that patient satisfaction after spinal care could be linked to patient age, education level and smoking status.

Outpatient anterior cervical discectomy and fusion associated with improved surgical quality

Sheyan Armaghani presented a study at the Cervical Spine Research Society Annual Meeting supporting the safety and efficacy of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in ambulatory surgery centres.

Barrier-breaking drug may lead to spinal cord injury treatments

Injections of a new drug may partially relieve paralysing spinal cord injuries, based on indications from a study in rats, partly funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Brace treatment for compression fractures may not provide additional improvement in...

A study published in Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery has found that patients who wore a brace as treatment for a spinal compression fracture had comparable outcomes in terms of pain, function and healing when compared to patients who did not wear a brace.

Toxin from tobacco smoke could increase pain in spinal cord injury

A neurotoxin found in tobacco smoke thought to increase pain in people with spinal cord injury has now been shown to accumulate in mice exposed to the equivalent of 12 cigarettes daily over a short time period.

510(k) clearance for Spineart’s ROMEO2 PAD

Spineart's ROMEO2 PAD posterior axial device has received 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration.

New clearance for DePuy Synthes paediatric device to treat thoracic insufficiency...

DePuy Synthes Spine has received 510(k) clearance from the US FDA to market the VEPTR/VEPTR II vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib devices for the treatment of thoracic insufficiency syndrome.

FDA clears Stimwave’s injectable wireless pain relief system

Stimwave has received FDA clearance to market its wireless microtechnology neuromodulation device for relief of chronic back and leg pain.

Spinal Modulation completes enrolment of Axium neurostimulator US pivotal trial

Spinal Modulation has completed enrolment of the ACCURATE study, a randomised, controlled pivotal clinical trial designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the company's Axium neurostimulator system.

Novel BoneScalpel technique published in Operative Neurosurgery

Misonix has announced a new clinical publication entitled: "Ultrasonic total uncinectomy: A novel technique for complete anterior decompression of cervical nerve roots," by Peyman Pakzaban, Houston, USA.

St Mary’s Medical Center offers robotic guidance system for spine surgery

Dignity Health St Mary's Medical Center, San Francisco, USA, has added the Mazor Robotics Renaissance computer-generated guidance system to its multidisciplinary spine centre.

SpineGuard passes ANVISA inspection

SpineGuard has received certification from the Brazilian governmental regulatory authority ANVISA following a three-day inspection in Paris.

GE Healthcare unveils SIGNA Pioneer’s MAGiC

GE Healthcare has unveiled SIGNA Pioneer, a new 510(k)-pending 3.0T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system, at the Radiological Society of North America annual meeting in Chicago, USA (30 November - 5 December).

Obesity does not affect the success and outcomes of degenerative scoliosis...

A new study published in the journal Spine has suggested that patient obesity has no impact on the correction, comorbidities, or complication rates associated with degenerative scoliosis correction surgery.

Interventional Spine receives FDA clearance Lateral Opticage expandable interbody

Interventional Spine has announced US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance of its Lateral Opticage expandable intervertebral body fusion device.

Centinel Spine introduces Midline II Lumbar Integrated Interbody system

Centinel Spine has introduced Midline II, its next generation STALIF family Lumbar Integrated Interbody fusion device.

Medacta completes first US surgeries with MySpine patient-matched technology

Medacta USA has completed the first successful surgeries in the USA utilising MySpine patient-matched technology using the company's 3D-reconstruction and 3D-printing technologies to produce customised patient-specific surgical guides.

Spineology receives patent allowance for percutaneous spinal fusion approach

The US Patent and Trademark Office has issued a Notice of Allowance for Spineology's "System and method for performing percutaneous spinal interbody fusion."

Use of crosslinks in clinical practice may be avoidable

Crosslinks are routinely used as adjuvants in spinal surgery. Although numerous biomechanical studies are available in the literature, there has been no clinical study that has evaluated the need for crosslinks in clinical situations.

Zyga Technology announces first Glyder device implantation and clinical study data

Zyga Technology has completed the first Glyder Facet Restoration Device commercial surgery and has published 12-month primary outcome data from the GLISSADE study.

Smartphone and tablet usage can cause spinal damage

A study published in Surgical Technology International warns that using smartphones and tablets can lead to spinal damage.

MRI alone may not be enough to accurately diagnose degenerative spondylolisthesis

A magnetic resonance image (MRI) alone may not be enough to accurately diagnose the existence or extent of degenerative spondylolisthesis, a common and often painful spine condition.

Nonoperative treatment of adult spinal deformity does not improve disease state...

A study presented at the 29th annual meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS) suggests that operative treatment for adult spinal deformity (ASD) improves both disease state and physical function regardless of patient age and deformity type, while nonoperative treatment has no such impact.

EUROSPINE 2014: Interview with Haluk Berk

Haluk Berk, incoming president of EUROSPINE talks about his strategy for the future of the society over the next year.

DePuy Synthes launches ViviGen cellular bone matrix

DePuy Synthes, in collaboration with LifeNet Health, has announced the introduction of ViviGen cellular bone matrix, a differentiated cellular allograft for the repair or reconstruction of musculoskeletal defects.

Heidi Prather named president of North American Spine Society

During the 29th Annual Meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS), Heidi Prather was named NASS President for 2014-15.

Thompson MIS cleared for Solvay Zeniva PEEK spinal implants

Thompson MIS has received 510(k) clearance from the FDA for its MIS TLIF spacer made of Zeniva polyetheretherketone (PEEK) resin from Solvay Specialty Polymers.

First US patient implanted with Medicrea’s UNiD

Medicrea has received 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for UNiD, the world's first patient-specific spinal osteosynthesis rod, and the first US patient has now undergone surgery to have UNid rods implanted.

Titan Spine receives FDA approval for nanoLOCK surface technology

Titan Spine has received 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market its Endoskeleton line of interbody fusion implants featuring its next-generation nanoLOCK surface technology.

NASS launches Spine Foundation to end spine-related disability worldwide

During its 29th Annual Meeting, the North American Spine Society (NASS) launched the North American Spine Foundation, a non-profit organisation established to end spine-related disability through research, education and advocacy.

FDA clearance for K2M’s CAPRI corpectomy cage system

K2M has received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 510(k) clearance to market the CAPRI corpectomy cage system, an expandable vertebral body replacement device that provides structural stability following a corpectomy or vertebrectomy.

Globus Medical launches ALTERA articulating expandable spacer

Globus Medical has launched its new minimally invasive fully articulating expandable spacer for spinal fusion - ALTERA.

NASS launches Spine Foundation to end spine-related disability worldwide

During its 29th Annual Meeting, the North American Spine Society (NASS) has launched the North American Spine Foundation, a non-profit organisation established to end spine-related disability through research, education and advocacy.

Zimmer announces FDA clearance of the Optio-C anterior cervical system

Zimmer Spine has announced FDA 510(k) clearance of the Optio-C anterior cervical plate for use with structural allograft/autograft as a stand-alone cervical system for cervical fusion procedures.

Precision Spine releases MD-Max ULIF

Precision Spine has announced the release of its MD-Max ULIF (Universal lumbar interbody fusion) minimally disruptive, maximum access system.

ECA Medical Instruments and Intelligent Implant Systems unveil the first pre-sterile,...

ECA Medical Instruments, in partnership with Intelligent Implant Systems (I2S), has developed the industry's first complete spinal implant instrument fixation kit that is 100% disposable.

Increasing T1 pelvic angle reveals worsening quality of life

In a study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, Themistocles Protopsaltis, of the New York University School of Medicine, and others propose that the use of the T1 pelvic angle to measure sagittal deformity has several important advantages over established methods of measurement.

No evidence that regular standing improves bowel movement in people with...

Stephanie Kwok, Royal Rehabilitation Centre, Sydney, Australia, and others report in Spinal Cord that regular standing does not improve bowel function in people with spinal cord injury.

Orthofix initiates first US clinical study of osteogenesis stimulation for odontoid...

Orthofix has announced the first large-scale clinical study to evaluate the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) technology to investigate whether Orthofix has announced the first large-scale clinical study to evaluate the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) technology to investigate whether the therapy can improve osteogenesis in type II odontoid fractures.

Misonix to host BoneScalpel sessions at NASS 2014

Misonix will exhibit and host several educational panels led by prominent spine surgeons at the North American Spine Society (NASS) annual meeting in San Francisco, USA taking place November 12-14, 2014.

Centinel Spine to launch Ti-ACTIVE at NASS 2014

Centinel Spine will launch Ti-ACTIVE, a commercially-pure titanium coating, at the 2014 North American Spine Society (NASS) Annual Meeting in San Francisco, USA.

William C Watters III

Initially intending to do a PhD in psychology, William C Watters III (clinical associate professor, Baylor College of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Houston, USA) switched to medicine when he realised he wanted greater exposure to clinical problems.

Biomet Spine announces first surgery with single-use MaxAn One anterior cervical...

Biomet Spine has announced the completion of the first surgery utilising the single-use MaxAn One anterior cervical system, an anterior cervical plating system designed to minimise the chance of infection and reduce hospital and ambulatory surgery centre costs.

Boston Scientific announces schedule for presentations at NANS meeting

Boston Scientific will present data on key clinical programs at the 18th North American Neuromodulation Society (NANS) Meeting, being held in Las Vegas, from the 11-14 December 2014.

Spinal cord stimulation procedures can be safely performed in outpatient setting

Spinal cord stimulation can, with the correct skills and knowledge, be performed in an outpatient setting by trained interventional radiologists, according to a retrospective study.

Alphatec to showcase new Arsenal spinal fixation system at NASS

Alphatec Holdings, the parent company of Alphatec Spine, has announced that it will showcase its new spinal fixation system, Arsenal, at the upcoming NASS meeting.

Medical societies unite to offer open access to universal spine terminology

Common spine conditions need universally-accepted definitions, say the authors of a new, open-access consensus document defining consistent and shared spine terminology.

Misonix trains new users at the Congress of Neurological Surgeons

Misonix educated neurosurgeons and spine surgeons at this year's annual meeting of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS).

Zyga Technology receives CE mark approval for Glyder Facet Restoration Device

Zyga Technology has announced CE mark approval of the Glyder Facet Restoration Device, offering patients a long-term surgical treatment for low back pain caused by facet joint degeneration.

EOS imaging obtains marketing approval in South Korea

EOS imaging has announced that it has received approval from the Korean Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) to market the EOS system in South Korea.

Recognising and managing sacroiliac joint pain

Spurred by newer treatment options and increased clinical research, it is increasingly recognised that 20-40% of low back pain complaints are generated from the sacroiliac joint. Steven R Garfin reviews the evidence for the minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion.

Biomet Spine completes first surgery with new Timberline MPF hyperlordotic system

Biomet Spine has reported the completion of the first surgery using its new Timberline modular plate fixation (MPF) system, which is a modular plating and hyperlordotic spacer system.

Novel biologic bone graft improves clinical outcomes in ALIF procedures

A new study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine indicates that Cerapedics' i-Factor biologic bone graft improves clinical outcomes patients undergoing ALIF.

Minimally invasive spine procedures produce significant benefits for workers and employers

The Laser Spine Institute (Tampa, USA), along with Rivenbark Consulting, has released details of a study that shows the income and productivity gains provided by spinal decompression procedures performed by Laser Spine Institute.

Medtronic announces global launch of its titanium-coated peek interbody fusion devices

Medtronic introduced its pure titanium coating (PTC) platform of interbody fusion devices for the spine at the 2014 Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) annual meeting in Boston. The PTC platform includes four products.

FDA 510(k) clearance for Vault-C anterior cervical interbody fusion device

Precision Spine has received 510(k) clearance and initiated the launch of its Vault-C anterior cervical interbody fusion device. The company says that the device represents a significant addition to its cervical product portfolio.

X-spine announces launch of Axograft biologics portfolio

X-spine has announced the addition of a broad line of biologics to its product portfolio. The initial launch of biologics includes Axograft DBM putty, Axograft cancellous crushed allograft, Axograft crunch allograft and Axograft amniotic membrane.

Aurora Spine launches MIS EOS interbody system featuring TiNano

Aurora Spine has launched another new product in its line of next-generation minimally invasive surgery lumbar lumbar interbody cages. EOS is the company's modern, minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion system featuring TiNano titanium spray coating technology.

FDA clearance makes MAGEC system available to more patients

Ellipse has received FDA 510(k) clearance to market a second, shorter 70mm actuator as part of the MAGEC (Magnetic expansion control) spinal bracing and distraction system. During the same week, the company marked its 100th MAGEC surgery since its limited market introduction in the USA in April.

Launch of new high-performance polymer-based trauma device technology for internal fracture...

Invibio has launched a new high-performance polymer-based trauma device technology for internal fracture fixation. The new trauma device technology is based on a composite called "PEEK-OPTIMA Ultra Reinforced polymer".

Vexim to initiate clinical study to support planned 510(k) application to...

Vexim is to initiate a new clinical study that will support its planned application for 510(k) regulatory clearance to market SpineJack in the USA. The Company expects to complete the study in two years' time in support of a 510(k) submission in 2017.

RTI Surgical receives letter from FDA on map3 cellular allogeneic bone...

RTI Surgical has received a letter from the FDA regarding its map3 cellular allogeneic bone graft. The letter addresses some technical aspects of the processing of the map3 allograft, as well as language included in the map3 website.

The Reeve Foundation launches The Big Idea to raise US$15 million...

On the 10-Year anniversary of actor's Christopher Reeve's death, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation has launched the "The Big Idea" campaign to raise $15 million for the next phase of epidural stimulation (for the management of spinal cord injury) research.

Low rate of recurrence after surgical management of spinal haemangiomas

Data from the largest multicentre surgical cohort of spinal haemangiomas (to date) indicate that excellent rates of local control and long-term survival can be achieved when strict oncologic treatment principles are followed during the index surgery.

EOS imaging expands market presence in South East Asia with first...

An EOS imaging system has been installed at the Medic Medical Center (MMC) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The MMC is the largest radiologic centre and medical clinic in Vietnam.

InVivo Therapeutics to exhibit at 2014 Congress of Neurological Surgeons annual...

InVivo Therapeutics will be exhibiting at the 2014 Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) annual meeting, which will be held in Boston (USA) on 18-22 October. The exhibit, InVivo's first at a major medical conference, will focus on strengthening and expanding the company's neurosurgical network.

RTI Surgical hosts symposium about the future of spinal surgery

RTI Surgical hosted a surgeon education symposium focused on the future of spine surgery last week. The symposium featured keynote speaker John Regan (Spine Group Beverly Hills, USA), who addressed surgical planning and complication avoidance in complex spinal deformity correction, and Franco Vigna (Spine Surgery of Buffalo Niagara, USA) served as the chairman of the event.

SI-Bone expands its European operations

SI-Bone has announced the expansion of its European operations with the formation of a GmbH and the appointment of Eric Schaber as general manager, Germany. Schaber will join former Kyphon colleague Andrea Mercanti, currently vice president of Europe, Middle East and Asia operations at SI-Bone to expand the sales organisation in Germany.

Intraspinal pressure monitoring improves management of patients with spinal cord injury

Traumatic spinal cord injury is a devastating condition that mostly affects young men (about a third of whom will remain paralysed or wheelchair bound for the rest of their lives). In the USA, the annual cost of caring for traumatic spinal cord injury patients was estimated at US$19 billion in 2011.

First Annual Value in Healthcare Forum to be held in New...

BroadWater has announced today that the first Annual Value in Healthcare Forum will be held at the Roosevelt Hotel, in New York, USA, on 6 November. Spinal surgeon Todd Albert (surgeon-in-Chief and Medical Director, Hospital for Special Surgery) will be hosting the event alongside Steve Ondra (senior VP and CMO, Health Care Service Corp).

Vertebral bone marrow oedema is associated with low back pain in...

Kiyotaka Yamada reported that bone marrow oedema adjacent to the vertebral endplate is correlated with low back pain in elderly patients with degenerative lumbar scoliosis.

Probing, tapping, toggling: Are we inserting pedicle screws correctly?

Robert Lee and John Schmidt write about pedicle screw insertion and their study which challenges the standard technique.

Pain catastrophising may explain gender differences in pain and disability in...

A new study has found that women with lumbar spinal stenosis are more prone to pain catastrophising than men with the condition and this may explain why women report higher levels of pain and disability than men in this patient population.

Alphatec Spine to showcase product portfolio at EuroSpine

Alphatec Spine will be showcasing their product portfolio at EuroSpine next week (1-3 October, Lyon, France) and will be hosting a workshop entitled "Less invasive solutions "complex spine pathology" at the conference.

SI-Bone strengthens patent portfolio with the US Patent and Trademark Office’s...

SI-Bone has announced that the US Patent and Trademark Office have awarded the company Patent No. 8,840,651 on systems and methods for the fixation and fusion of bone. This newly issued patent broadly covers a threaded, fenestrated implant with a tapered distal end.

Long Bow expandable lateral interbody system receives FDA approval

Life Spine has announced today that the FDA has given 510(k) marketing clearance for its Long Bow expandable lateral interbody system.

Global burden of adult spinal deformity is large compared with other...

New research suggests that SF-36 scores are lower (ie. worse) in patients with adult spinal deformity than they are in patients with other chronic conditions such as heart failure.

FDA clears software dedicated to sagittal balance and posture analysis

EOS Imaging has announced that its next-generation sterEOS 3D imaging software, sterEOS 1.6, has received 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

New balloon kyphoplasty products for spinal fractures

Medtronic has announced the launch of the Kyphon Express II Balloon Kyphoplasty Platform, which includes the next generation Kyphon Cement Delivery System.

African Americans are more likely to experience in-hospital complications after cervical...

Richard Skolasky and others report in Spine that, following cervical spine surgery, the rate of in-hospital complications (including mortality) is significantly higher in African Americans than it is in Caucasians.

3D-printed implants are a “real step forward” in spinal surgery

Vincent Fiere performed the world's first spinal surgery (anterior lumbar interbody fusion) with a 3D printed customised cage (UNiD, Medicrea). He speaks to Spinal News International about the potential role of 3D-printed implants in spinal surgery.

Cerapedics files PMA application with FDA for i-FACTOR peptide enhanced bone...

The PMA application is supported by data from a pivotal clinical trial demonstrating that i-FACTOR bone graft can be used as an alternative to autograft harvesting in certain procedures.

Titan Spine chief medical officer awarded Becker’s Healthcare 2014 Leadership Award

Becker's Healthcare selected recipients based on leadership position, innovation in the field, entrepreneurial spirit and thought leadership in the industry. Winners were chosen by a panel of editorial team members and leading spine industry experts.

EOS imaging system installed at Northern Denmark’s largest university hospital

EOS Imaging has announced the installation of an EOS imaging system at the Aalborg University Hospital in Denmark. AUH is the second hospital in Denmark to install EOS equipment.

K2M receives FDA clearance and CE mark for MESA Hooks

K2M has announced that it has received 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration as well as the CE mark to market MESA Hooks, the latest implant addition to the MESA Deformity Spinal System.

First surgery performed with Expanding Orthopedics’ FLXfit 3D expandable interbody cage

Expanding Orthopedics has announced that the first surgery ever, using its FLXfit, the world's first 3D expandable interbody cage, has been performed by Jean-Charles Le Huec in France.

Invibio receives ISO 17025:2005 accreditation from UKAS

Invibio Biomaterial Solutions has announced that its laboratories have been accredited to ISO 17025:2005 by UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service).

Managing back pain in children

Omar Gabbar reviews the prevalence and management of back pain in children and adolescents, including the importance of excluding serious pathologies.

Shilla growth guidance system cleared

Medtronic has announced the 510(k) clearance and launch of the Shilla growth guidance system, designed for treatment of skeletally immature paediatric patients less than 10 years of age diagnosed with severe, progressive, life-threatening, early-onset spinal deformities.

VertiFlex announces first study patients treated in approved coverage with evidence...

VertiFlex announced the first patients have been treated in the STEPS trial by Bradly S Goodman in Birmingham, Alabama, USA.

Iodine-supported spinal instruments reduce infection risk after total en bloc spondylectomy

A new study has found that the combined anterior and posterior approach and non-use of iodine-supported spinal instruments are independent risk factors for the development of surgical site infection after total en bloc spondylectomy.

More than half of spinal cord injury patients use inappropriate wheelchairs

A new study has found that, overall, 55% of patients with a spinal cord injury use an inappropriate wheelchair, including 66.7% of patients with inappropriate seat height "which could lead to pressure ulcers or other complications.

Study finds improved accuracy and safety utilising Renaissance guidance system

Utilisation of Mazor Robotics Renaissance guidance system provides greater reliability in screw placement and reduced use of fluoroscopy, according to a prospective study published in the current issue of Turkish Neurosurgery.

SI-BONE announces positive coverage decision by Priority Health

SI-BONE has announced that Priority Health (Michigan, USA) published an update to its Lumbar Fusion Medical Policy No. 91590-R4 providing positive coverage for SI-BONE's MIS sacroiliac joint fusion procedure.

InVivo Therapeutics to present at the Stem Cell Meeting on the...

InVivo Therapeutics has announced that Tom Ulich, InVivo's chief scientific officer, will present at the 4th Annual Partnering Forum, part of the Stem Cell Meeting on the Mesa.

Aurora Spine appoints regional vice president of sales

Aurora Spine has announced the appointment of Joe Bocchino as regional vice president of Sales for the Western United States.

Aesculap Implant Systems launches S4 Element MIS system

The S4 Element MIS system is the only posterior lumbar pedicle screw fixation system to utilise endoscope technology to gain direct visualisation, providing the advantages of minimally invasive surgery with enhanced view of surgical site.

Lori Karol

Lori Karol, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital, Dallas, USA, talks to Spinal News International about the importance of personally managing the care of a child with scoliosis and the rewards of helping patients with scoliosis to lead fulfilling lives.

Scoliosis patients with a low body mass index have poorer outcomes...

A new study suggests that patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and a low body mass index have poorer outcomes, independent of the curve magnitude and the percentage of correction, after corrective surgery than patients with a normal body mass index.

Scolioscreen-smartphone device reliably measures angle of trunk inclination

A study has found that the combination of a medical device called the Scolioscreen and a smartphone can be used to reliably and consistently measure angle of trunk inclination for the early detection of spinal deformities.

St Jude Medical completes acquisition of NeuroTherm

St Jude Medical has announced that it has completed its acquisition of privately held NeuroTherm, a manufacturer of interventional pain management therapies.

Rex Bionics appoints Crispin Simon as chief executive officer

Simon, who has a 25-year track record in industry with significant success in a number of sub-sectors of healthcare including medical technology and medical devices, will formally join the Board of Rex Bionics as chief executive officer in early October 2014.

K2M announces recent product highlights

K2M has announced 510(k) clearance from the FDA to market its Caspian occipital anchor spinal system, as well as the introduction of the Serengeti minimally invasive retractor system in Japan and the launch of the Cayman minimally invasive plate system in the USA, Australia, and the UK.

Isis Pharmaceuticals initiates Phase 3 Study of ISIS-SMN Rx in infants...

Isis Pharmaceuticals has announced the initiation of a pivotal Phase 3 study evaluating ISIS-SMNRx in infants with spinal muscular atrophy. The company plans to dose the first infant in this study within the next few weeks, at which time Isis will earn an $18 million milestone payment from its development partner, Biogen Idec.

Medicrea obtains FDA approval to market K-Jaws in USA

Medicrea has announced that the FDA has approved its K-Jaws cervical compression staple for all cervical fixation indications carried out with interbody cages. The company states the device targets the American cervical fixation market, which is estimated at US $1.2 billion.

Minimus Spine secures the CE mark for its TrioJection system

Minimus Spine has announced that it has successfully secured ISO 13485 certification of its quality management system and also the CE mark for its TrioJection system for delivering ozone to a herniated spinal disc.

The ASIA impairment scale for spinal injuries may show worsening despite...

Ibrahim Gündoğdu and colleagues report in Spinal Cord that the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) impairment scale is limited because it could show worsening despite a patient with a spinal cord injury experiencing neurological improvement. Gündoğdu speaks to Spinal News International about the problems of the ASIA impairment scale (AIS).

Cost of implants is a barrier to spinal deformity surgery in...

Despite the cost of pedicle screws being lower in low income countries than in high income countries, the cost of implants is a principal barrier to children having corrective surgery for spinal deformity in these countries.

FDA approves Prestige LP cervical disc system

Medtronic has announced that it has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market the Prestige LP cervical disc system for the treatment of single-level cervical disc disease (radiculopathy and/or myelopathy).

Liquid nitrogen-treated tumour tissue enhances anti-tumour immunity

Implanting liquid nitrogen-treated tumour tissue in the subcutaneous tissue of the armpit after posterior decompression and stabilisation for the management of metastatic spinal tumours is associated with enhanced anti-tumour immunity with no tumour growth in the area of implantation.

Advanced Biologics publishes additional OsteoAMP abstracts

Advanced Biologics has announced the publishing of two abstracts within The Bone and Joint Journal. Initially presented at the European Orthopaedic Research Society meeting, both abstracts further substantiate the differentiation and clinical benefit of OsteoAMP allograft-derived growth factor.

Aurora Spine announces first surgery using Zip graft bone dowel

Aurora Spine Corporation has announced the first US surgery using the Zip graft pre-packaged sterile bone dowel. The surgery was performed at Madison County Hospital in London, Ohio, USA by Won Song.

Misonix unveils new BoneScalpel app

The new iPad app was designed to educate users on the extensive benefits of the ultrasonic BoneScalpel for spine surgery.

Economic analysis of minimally invasive spine fusion using AxiaLIF accepted for...

Baxano Surgical has announced that the Journal of Managed Care Medicine has accepted an economic analysis of the AxiaLIF pre-sacral interbody fusion procedure in comparison to transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF).

K2M receives overwhelming attendance at workshops hosted at IMAST

K2M's 'Hands-on Workshops' featured leading experts in the field who addressed cutting-edge techniques for complex spinal pathologies.

Trial shows significant pain relief for spine cancer patients following targeted...

The study followed patients at five leading academic centres and found a significant decrease (p <0.01) in pain scores after targeted radiofrequency ablation (t-RFA) with the Star (DFINE) tumour ablation system.

Expanded FDA clearance of Biosphere Putty for spine indications

Synergy Biomedical has announced that it has received 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration to market Biosphere Putty as a bone graft extender for use in the posterolateral spine.

Magec system recommended by NICE and NHS in UK

The recommendations were triggered by recently published medical technology guidance from NICE, encouraging the NHS to use the Magec system in children aged two years and over who suffer from early onset scoliosis.

FDA clears FLXfit 3D expandable interbody cage

Expanding Orthopedics has announced that its FLXfit, the world's first 3D expandable interbody cage, is cleared for commercialisation in the USA.

Titan Spine study wins Whitecloud Award for Best Basic Research at...

Titan Spine has announced that a research paper which evaluated their surface technology was awarded the prestigious Whitecloud Award for Best Basic Science Research from the Scoliosis Research Society.

AXS Medical showcases Biomod at IMAST

Imaging company AXS Medical are showcasing their Biomod imaging system, which offers 3D modelling of the spine in a standing position, at the International Meeting on Advanced Spine Techniques (IMAST; 16-19 July, Valencia, Spain).

Misonix BoneScalpel reported to save blood loss in spinal fusions with...

The report shows that use of the ultrasonic BoneScalpel to perform the bone cuts associated with facetectomies and apical Ponte-type posterior releases resulted in significantly less bleeding compared with cuts made with standard osteotomes and rongeurs, limiting overall blood loss by 30 to 40%.

United Spinal appoints Tom Aiello as new board member

United Spinal Association has announced the appointment of Tom Aiello, president of March Marketing and an Army veteran living with spinal cord injury to its board of directors.

FDA clears launch of Endoskeleton TL device for lateral spinal fusion

Australian surgeries mark first use of Titan Spine’s Endoskeleton interbody
The Endoskeleton TL (Titan Spine) represents the first lateral fusion device to feature surface technology that is designed to participate in the fusion process by creating an osteogenic response to the implant's topography.

St Jude Medical announces definitive agreement to acquire NeuroTherm

St Jude Medical has announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire privately held NeuroTherm, a manufacturer of interventional pain management therapies, for approximately US$200 million in cash.

Monitor spinal cord injury patients for many years after cell transplantation

A case report of a patient who developed a mass eight years after undergoing cell transplantation to treat a spinal cord injury suggests that the safety monitoring of patients who undergo such procedures should continue for many years.

Epidural glucocorticoid injections provide little or no benefit for spinal stenosis

A new study indicates that epidural injections of glucocorticoids and lidocaine provide little or no benefit compared with epidural injections of lidocaine alone for patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.

Can cognitive behavioural therapy help spinal surgery patients return to work...

Nanna Rolving and colleagues have launched a study to investigate the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of using a multidisciplinary cognitive behavioural intervention to help patients undergoing lumbar spinal fusion surgery to return to work and to activities of daily living.

NuVasive to participate in the 21st annual IMAST

NuVasive has announced its participation at the 21st International Meeting on Advanced Spine Techniques (IMAST) from Wednesday, 16 July to Friday, 18 July, 2014, in booth #6 at the Valencia Convention Centre in Valencia, Spain.

NuVasive names Carol Cox executive vice president strategy and corporate communications

NuVasive has announced that Carol Cox has joined the company as executive vice president of Strategy and Corporate Communications effective immediately.

Aurora Spine announces first surgery using TiNano cage

Aurora Spine Corporation has announced the first surgery using the Discovery interbody cage with TiNano plasma spray coating. The surgery, a multi-level case, was performed at Tri-City Medical Center in Oceanside, California, USA by Neville Alleyne.

First clinical use of Avance minimally invasive pedicle screw system

Baxano Surgical has announced that the first case utilising the Avance minimally invasive pedicle screw system was recently performed by Sameer Mathur in Cary, North Carolina, USA.

Zimmer launches Virage OCT spinal fixation system

The Virage system features the 360° omnidirectional extreme-angle screw allowing for 112° of conical range of motion, designed to simplify rod alignment and minimise operating time.

InVivo Therapeutics announces new responsibilities for senior management

InVivo Therapeutics has announced the expansion of responsibilities for three members of its senior management team. The additional functional responsibilities, now at the senior management level, include Operations, Project Management, and Reimbursement Planning.

ReWalk personal approved by FDA for home use

ReWalk is a wearable robotic exoskeleton that provides powered hip and knee motion to enable individuals with spinal cord injury to stand upright and walk.

CE mark for FLXfit 3D expandable interbody cage

Expanding Orthopedics FLXfit
Expanding Orthopedics has announced that the FLXfit, its novel expandable and articulated TLIF cage with lordotic correction, has received CE mark approval and is now cleared for commercialisation in Europe.

New vertebral balloon launched on to the US market

Neurotherm has announced it has launched a new vertebral balloon, Parallax, on to the US market. The company states that the balloon adds a key capability to its vertebroplasty and vertebral augmentation product line.

Preoperative opioid use associated with worse patient-reported outcomes

Two studies have indicated that increased preoperative opioid use is associated with worse patient-reported outcomes and increased hospital stay. However, it was not found that preoperative opioid use was associated with more complications

Electrical nerve stimulation could reduce spasticity in spinal cord injury

A new study indicates that transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) plus standardised physical therapy reduces clinical spasticity in patients with a subacute spinal cord injury compared with standardised physical therapy alone.

NuVasive releases NVM5 V2.0

NuVasive has announced the release of a next generation monitoring platform with computer-assisted surgery applications to enhance both speed and efficiency.

Titan Spine expands use of its surface technology in the UK...

Titan's Endoskeleton interbody fusion devices feature the company's proprietary implant surface technology, consisting of a unique combination of roughened topographies at the macro, micro, and cellular levels.

Invuity announces agreement with Yankee Alliance

The agreement will provide Yankee Alliance members access to Invuity's innovative devices, which improve surgical visualisation without glare, shadows or thermal hazards, enhancing patient outcomes, safety and surgical efficiency.

InVivo Therapeutics announces realignment of R&D strategy

InVivo Therapeutics has announced that the company is realigning resources behind its novel Neuro-Spinal Scaffold and the Neuro-Spinal Scaffold Plus Stem Cells programme for spinal cord injury. Resources currently deployed towards InVivo's hydrogel drug delivery programme will be eliminated.

Reducing the need for allogeneic blood transfusions in metastatic spine tumour...

At BritSpine (2-4 April, Warwick, UK), Naresh Kumar presented the results of a systematic review of using intraoperative salvaged blood in metastatic spine tumour surgery to reduce the need for allogeneic blood transfusions. In this commentary, Kumar reviews the benefits of using intraoperative salvaged blood in patients with metastatic spine disease.

PediGuard recognised by Becker’s Healthcare

SpineGuard has announced that its PediGuard device has been recognised by Becker's Healthcare with the 2014 Spine Device Award for advancing spine technology and patient care and representing both the cutting-edge and gold standard in spine care.

Medacta International opens new US headquarters in Chicago

The 20,000 square foot facility located at 1556 West Carroll Avenue is expected to bring more than 50 jobs to the city, uniting Medacta USA's operations, product development, sales, and marketing functions together in a city and region known for its deep medical technology roots.

K2M congratulates Harry Paul on Engineering Excellence Award

K2M Group congratulates Harry Paul, 17, of Port Washington, USA, on receiving Best of Category honours in Engineering: Materials and Bioengineering at the 2014 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), May 16 in Los Angeles, USA.

Benvenue Medical secures US$64 million financing

The spine company intends to use the proceeds to build its US commercial presence, scale up manufacturing, increase administrative functions to support overall corporate growth and provide working capital to fund growth in operating activities.

EOS imaging system installation at Children’s Mercy Hospital and Clinics

EOS imaging has announced the installation of an EOS imaging system at Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics in Kansas City, USA.

Chinese patent for XPED pedicle screw system

Expanding Orthopedics has announced the grant of a Chinese patent for its XPED system, the unique expandable pedicle screw and related instrumentation.

First patient enrolled in Simmetry sacroiliac joint fusion study

Zyga Technology has announced the first patient enrolment in Sacroiliac fusion study (SAIF), designed to evaluate fusion and pain reduction following use of the Simmetry sacroiliac joint fusion system.

Zip surgical skin closure honoured

ZipLine Medical has announced that the Zip Surgical Skin Closure has been selected as the Gold Winner in the "Surgical Equipment, Instruments, and Supplies category" of the 2014 Medical Design Excellence Awards competition.

SpinalCyte announces final animal trials for spinal disc tissue engineering

SpinalCyte has announced an agreement between SpinalCyte and Howard An, the Morton International Endowed chair professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and director, Division of Spine Surgery and Spine Fellowship Programme, Rush University Medical Center to complete the final animal trials for spinal disc tissue engineering.

Ulrich Medical launches uCentum

The uCentum comprehensive posterior system for open and minimally invasive surgical approaches is intended to provide immobilisation and stabilisation of spinal segments as an adjunct to fusion of the thoracic, lumbar and sacral spine (T1-S2).

Significantly higher rate of perioperative complications after total en bloc spondylectomy...

The rate of perioperative complications in patients who have undergone total en bloc spondylectomy for the management of metastatic spinal tumours is significantly higher in those who have received preoperative irradiation.

Tantalum porous implant is a good alternative to plate and autograft...

A new study indicates that patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) with a tantalum implant have fewer complications and reduced costs at five years compared with patients undergoing ACDF with autograft and plate.

SpineGuard introduces bevel-cannulated PediGuard

SpineGuard has announced that it is expanding its Dynamic Surgical Guidance platform for enhanced pedicle screw placement by introducing the bevel-tip cannulated PediGuard

EOS imaging technology at WCMISST

EOS technology is specifically highlighted in a concurrent educational session in the "Cutting Edge" portion of WCMISST on Friday, June 13 in a presentation titled, "EOS in minimally invasive spine surgery."

Luiz Pimenta

Luiz Pimenta, immediate past president of the International Society for the Advancement of Spinal Surgery (ISASS) talks to Spinal News International about the development of minimally invasive surgery and his achievements as president of ISASS.

The value of the nerve root sedimentation sign in diagnosing lumbar...

There is growing evidence that the "nerve root sedimentation sign" (SedSign) could aid the diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis. Markus Melloh and Thomas Barz, who invented the SedSign, review the evidence base for this prospective diagnostic tool.

Joimax attends WCMISST

At the 4th World Congress of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery and Techniques (11-14 June; Paris, France), Joimax presented its latest development - the EndoLIF system for endoscopic stabilisation of the lumbar spine.

UK launch of REX at Neurological Rehabilitation Expo

Rex Bionics has announced that it will be launching REX into the UK market at the Neurological Rehabilitation Expo 2014 at London's ExCel on 12-13 June.

Clinical study on spinal tumour ablation with Star system begins

The multicentre trial is the first prospective study to evaluate clinical outcomes in patients receiving treatment with the Star tumour ablation system (Dfine) for the palliative treatment of metastatic spinal tumours.

French surgeon performs world’s first spinal fusion surgery using customised 3D...

Medicrea's UNiD anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) customisation service exactly reproduces the anatomic details of a patient's vertebral plates.

Two research articles published addressing cost and morbidity associated with fusion...

Paradigm Spine has announced the recent publication of two research articles addressing the costs and morbidity associated with fusion procedures performed in the treatment of spinal stenosis, and separately its comparative effectiveness relative to the coflex interlaminar stabilisation device and procedure.

BoneScalpel safe and efficient

After a comparative study in 100 consecutive patients, Ajay Krishnan of the Stavya Spine Hospital and Research Center in India has concluded that the BoneScalpel is better than conventional methods in terms of safety and efficacy as it reduces the number of dural tears and neurological deficit, reduces blood loss and shortens operating time.

Smith & Nephew completes acquisition of ArthroCare

Smith & Nephew plc has announced the completion of the acquisition of ArthroCare Corporation, an innovative medical device company with a highly complementary sports medicine portfolio. The purchase price was US$48.25 per share paid in cash, translating into an enterprise value of approximately US$1.5 billion.

White paper released detailing Eminent King Cobra and Copperhead

Eminent Spine has released a white paper authored by Stephen P Courtney, Plano Orthopaedic Sports Medicine and Spine Center, detailing the results of a study of its Anterior Cervical Plate ("King Cobra") and the Eminent Spine PEEK Cervical Cage ("Copperhead").

SpinalCyte receives new US patent for spinal disc tissue engineering

The technology described in the patent involves seeding autologous dermal fibroblasts into the nucleus of the spinal disc. The cells, when exposed to in vivo mechanical stress in a low oxygen environment, will then differentiate into chondrocytes to regrow the nucleus of the spinal disc.

Life Spine enters China market with industry leader

Life Spine has entered into a strategic partnership with China Pioneer Pharma Holdings Limited, based in Shanghai, China.

EFORT Industry Award 2014 for Medacta

In recognition of Medacta's commitment to support Continuous Medical Education, Medacta will receive the "EFORT Industry Award 2014" during the EFORT Congress opening ceremony on June 4.

Globus Medical launches Monument anterior spondylolisthesis reduction system

Globus Medical has announced the launch of Monument, a unique anterior lumbar interbody fusion device with a built-in mechanical feature designed to aid in spondylolisthesis reduction. The self-locking and threaded translational feature can be engaged to reduce the implant up to 8mm in situ and the screws are designed for optimal cortical purchase.

Richard III was not a “hunchback”

Richard III (king of England 1483-85) did have adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, but "according to CT 3D reconstructions of his spine "his physical deformity was probably slight because he had a well-balanced curve; therefore, in reality, he did not have the severe physical deformity that he is portrayed as having in Shakespeare's play, Richard III

Level of cervical surgery does not affect postoperative headache relief

A study in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine indicates that although patients with cervical spondylolysis at higher levels have significantly greater preoperative headache pain than patients with the condition at lower levels, they do not have greater pain relief after surgery "indicating that headache relief is not related to the level of operation.

Intermittent hypoxia could be a powerful therapy for spinal cord injury

A trial, published in Neurology, indicates that daily acute intermittent hypoxia could be used to improve walking speed and endurance in patients with chronic incomplete spinal cord injury. Study author Randy D Trumbower outlines the findings of the study and its possible implications.

PediGuard bone-monitoring device adopted by 20th US spine-surgery teaching institution

SpineGuard has announced that its PediGuard platform has been adopted by the 20th major spine-surgery teaching institution in the United States: Children's Hospital of New Orleans.

SpineGuard appoints Kris Kumar as US marketing director

Kumar brings a 20-year successful career with Zimmer, Synthes, J&J Depuy and Kyphon (Medtronic), with increasing responsibilities: from product development engineering to product management, sales management and marketing leadership.

Surgeon performs first Renaissance spine surgery with full integration of intraoperative...

Dimitry Dzukaev performed a series of 10 successful spine procedures utilising Mazor Robotics Renaissance Guidance System with full integration of an intraoperative imaging system in Moscow, Russia at City Clinical Hospital.

New data demonstrate sustained low back pain relief with Precision Spectra...

New retrospective data highlighting the Boston Scientific Precision Spectra spinal cord stimulator system demonstrate the device provided sustained and highly significant relief of low-back pain six months after implantation. Results were presented at the World Institute of Pain (WIP) 7th World Congress in Maastricht, The Netherlands May 7-10, 2014.

Developing a better understanding of proximal junctional kyphosis and failure is...

Over the last few years, proximal junctional kyphosis (a complication of surgery for adult spinal deformity) appears to have become epidemic and reports of the more catastrophic version, proximal junctional failure, have also started to increase. Steven D Glassman reviews the strategies that have been used to decrease the risk of these complications.

First patient enrolled in randomised trial evaluating Cellentra

The trial is designed to assess fusion rates and function to determine whether Cellentra viable cell bone matrix can alleviate the need to harvest autograft from the patient's own hip.

Medtronic agrees to settle certain Infuse bone graft product liability cases

Medtronic has announced that it has agreed with certain plaintiffs' counsel to settle their inventories of filed and unfiled product liability claims related to Infuse bone graft. Under the terms of the agreement, Medtronic has agreed, subject to certain conditions, to resolve the claims of an estimated 950 claimants for a total payment of approximately US$22 million.

NuVasive announces favourable resolution of patent lawsuit against Cadwell Laboratories

NuVasive has announced that it reached a settlement agreement with Cadwell Laboratories in a lawsuit involving NuVasive’s patented neuromonitoring technology.

NASS announces ground-breaking tool to improve patient access to evidence-based spine...

In a move to improve patient access to high-quality spine care, the North American Spine Society (NASS) has revealed the first 13 of its ground-breaking coverage policy recommendations for common spine care treatments, procedures and diagnostics.

InVivo Therapeutics initiates first clinical trial of Neuro-Spinal Scaffold

InVivo Therapeutics has announced that it has begun shipment of its investigational device, a degradable polymer Neuro-Spinal Scaffold for spinal cord injury patients, for initiation of the company's first clinical trial.

NuVasive Solutions recognised for advancing spine technology and patient care

NuVasive has announced that the XLIF anterior column realignment procedure was recognised by Becker’s Spine Review for its contribution to advancing spine technology and patient care.

Alphatec Spine announces executive leadership changes

Alphatec Holdings has announced that its board of directors has appointed James M Corbett president and chief executive officer, effective May 1, 2014. Corbett, who has also been appointed to the board of directors, succeeds Leslie H Cross, who has decided to retire and is resigning his position as chief executive officer effective May 1, 2014.

New post-implantation efficacy data for Spectra spinal cord stimulation system at...

New retrospective six-month post-implantation data on the efficacy of Boston Scientific's Spectra spinal cord stimulation system for low-back pain will be presented at the World Institute of Pain (WIP) World Congress in Maastricht, The Netherlands, May 7-10, 2014.

FDA clears AnyPlus T/PLIF cage

GS Medical USA has announced that the AnyPlus T/PLIF cage has received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 510(k) clearance, and the US launch of the new lumbar cage system which expands the company's successful AnyPlus platform of cages. Additionally, GS Medical announced FDA clearance for design modifications to its existing AnyPlus ALIF, TLIF, and PLIF interbody portfolio.

PediGuard bone-monitoring device demonstrates high accuracy for C2-screw fixation

SpineGuard has announced that the anticipation of pedicle breaches using its FDA-cleared and CE-marked PediGuard device in a prospective clinical analysis of 50 patients with "rather rare and severe cervical spine disease" was 100% accurate in identifying an impassable cortical pedicle isthmus in 34 pedicles.

EOS imaging system installed at Meijo Hospital in Japan

The installation is one of the four installations of EOS in Japan since the equipment has received market clearance.

Frank Schwab

Frank Schwab (chief of the Spinal Deformity Service, Division of Spine Surgery, New York University, New York, USA) talks to Spinal News International about his work with the Spine Deformity Study Group (SDSG), the ISSG, and why he believes the multicentre approach to be the most important development in spinal surgery.

BoneScalpel and SonaStar showcased at AANS

Misonix showcased its BoneScalpel and SonaStar systems at the recent American Neurological Surgeons (AANS) annual meeting. The BoneScalpel is an ultrasonic surgical device that enables rapid, safe and precise osteotomies and the SonaStar offers precise soft tissue aspiration and effective removal of osseous structures.

Hybrid SPECT/CT imaging could improve management of low back pain

According to a study presented at BritSpine (2-4 April, Warwick, UK) and published as an abstract in the European Spine Journal, there would be more than 50% missed or wrong targets if the treatment of facet joints was determined on computed tomography (CT) alone.

Intraoperative epidural analgesia during spinal surgery is safe, simple, and effective

A poster presentation at BritSpine (2-4 April, Warwick, UK) indicates that the use of intraoperative epidural analgesia with local anaesthetic is a safe and effective approach to managing postoperative pain following spinal surgery.

Finding solutions for unmet needs explored at BritSpine

At the biennial BritSpine 2014 conference; Max Reinhardt, worldwide president, DePuy Synthes Spine, spoke about the past, present and future outlook for spinal implant companies and spinal surgeons.

VertiFlex announces submission of final PMA Module to the FDA for...

The final module covers the clinical results from the Superion investigational device exemption trial evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the Superion interspinous spacer system for the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis.

Anspach high-speed drill system debuts at AANS

DePuy Synthes Power Tools announced the global launch of the Anspach EG1 high-speed electric system, a next generation high-speed electric drill with multiple attachments and accessories, designed for use in neurosurgery, otology and spinal procedures.

FDA approval for world’s first upgradeable spinal cord stimulation system

Protégé is the first and only neurostimulation system that allows spinal cord stimulation technology upgrades as they are approved to be made via software updates. Chronic pain sufferers implanted with this new device can access innovative therapies, stimulation modes, diagnostics or other features once approved through future software upgrades " without the need to surgically replace their medical device.

New discovery gives hope that nerves could be repaired after spinal...

A new discovery suggests it could one day be possible to chemically reprogram and repair damaged nerves after spinal cord injury or brain trauma.

Zimmer launches comprehensive line of Puros demineralised bone matrix

Zimmer Spine announced the US market launch of a comprehensive family of Puros demineralised bone matrix with reverse phase medium putty, putty with chips, gel and paste, and Puros demineralised bone matrix Block and Strip products - bone graft substitutes used to stimulate natural bone formation processes in spine surgical procedures.

Allogenic bone chips are not the answer to avoiding cement leakage...

A study published in Clinics in Orthopedic Surgery suggests that fresh frozen allogenic bone chips are not a feasible alternative to bone cement because vertebroplasty with bone chips is associated with worse clinical outcomes compared with vertebroplasty with bone cement.

Increased thoracic kyphosis is a risk factor for limited shoulder movement

A new study, published in the European Spine Journal, provides the first evidence that increased thoracic kyphosis, increased spinal inclination and weak back muscle strength are risk factors for limited shoulder range of motion.

GS Medical USA announces executive leadership changes

GS Medical USA announced changes in its executive leadership team to carry forward the company's plan for continued profitability and year-over-year double-digit growth.

New research estimates nearly half a billion dollars in annual savings...

Research from DJO Global has suggested that Medicare could save an estimated US$417 million if patients with chronic low back pain are treated with a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation system (TENS).

United Spinal hosts free webinar

The Getting the Right Mobility Equipment & Services webinar will describe what rules under Medicare may prevent people with disabilities from getting the right mobility equipment and services on which they rely.

Southern Spine expands sales to Europe and announces new configurations of...

Southern Spine has established an agreement with a major Italian distributor and have already performed numerous successful cases of its patented StabiLink MIS spinal fixation system.

Mainstay Medical begins clinical trial of ReActiv8

Mainstay Medical has secured approval from Ethics Committees in Australia to start a clinical trial of ReActiv8, its innovative implantable neurostimulation device for the treatment of people with chronic low-back pain. Recruitment of subjects for the trial has commenced at three clinical sites in Australia.

Evonik reaches milestone with permanently implantable Vestakeep Peek

Evonik Corporation announced that each of its primary implantable Vestakeep Peek product lines have been referenced in customer products that have received US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) 510(k) clearance for permanent implant use.

LDR’s VerteBRIDGE plating technology reaches new milestone

LDR Holding Corporation announced that there have been more than 50,000 implantations of its exclusive VerteBRIDGE plating technology worldwide.

Study shows long-lasting improvements for discogenic low-back pain treated with minimally...

Patients who benefited from intradiscal biacuplasty to treat discogenic low-back pain maintained initial gains in pain relief and physical function when rechecked at one year, a new study showed.

Misonix exhibits at 65th Southern Neurosurgical Society Annual Conference

Misonix recently attended the 65th Southern Neurosurgical Society (SNS) Annual Meeting in San Juan, Puerto Rico from February 19-22, 2014. The company exhibited and highlighted the BoneScalpel and SonaStar Ultrasonic Surgical Aspiration System.

Transforaminal vs. interlaminar epidural steroid injections: both offered similar pain relief,...

Results presented at the 30th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Pain Medicine indicate both injection types were effective for treating unilateral lumbosacral radicular pain.

Reducing wait times could improve spinal cord stimulator success for chronic...

Success rates soared to 75% for patients who waited less than two years for a spinal cord stimulator implant, compared with 15% for patients who received implants 20 years after the onset of pain, according to a retrospective analysis.

Operative treatment of spinal epidural abscesses does not improve outcomes in...

According to a study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, the combination of early surgical decompression and intravenous antimicrobial therapy does not improve clinical outcomes in patients aged ≥50 years with a spinal epidural abscess compared with intravenous antimicrobial therapy alone.

High-dose methylprednisolone increases risks of complications in acute spinal cord injury

A new study indicates that administration of high-dose methylprednisolone in patients with acute spinal cord injury is associated with an increase in the risk of major complications. However, the drug does not appear to increase the rate of mortality in these patients.

Hero Allograft donations exceed projected amount

Spinal Elements announced that the donations raised in 2013 from its Hero Allograft programme for the Make-A-Wish Foundation and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital totalled over US$330,000, well above the expected amount of US$250,000 as previously projected.

NuVasive to exhibit at the 30th Annual Meeting of the AANS/CNS...

NuVasive has announced its participation at the 30th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) Joint Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves, 5-8 March, Orlando, USA.

Ziehm Imaging wins at IAIR global awards

Ziehm Imaging has been announced as the winner in the category "Best Company for Innovation & Leadership" at this year's IAIR global awards.

Georgia hospital orders Renaissance system

Mazor Robotics announced that a teaching hospital in Georgia, USA has placed an order for its first Renaissance system.

Wolters Kluwer Health to start publishing the Journal of the American...

Wolters Kluwer Health and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) have announced that they will now collaborate to publish the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, starting from the March 2014 issue.

Two new spine systems for RTI Surgical

RTI surgical has announced that they have launched two new spine systems, the Aspect anterior cervical plate system and the MaxFuse vertebral body replacement system. The company states that both systems are designed for use in spinal fusion and are currently available for US distribution.

NuVasive Solutions named on list of “100 Minimally Invasive Orthopaedic &...

Three NuVasive Solutions products were named on the Becker Ambulatory Surgery Centre Review "100 Minimally Invasive Orthopaedic & Spine Devices to Know" list. The list highlights devices and instruments used in minimally invasive orthopaedic procedures, including knee, hip, shoulder, extremities, and spine surgery.

New studies highlight benefits of Star tumour ablation system for patients...

Two studies presented at the American Society of Spine Radiology 2014 Annual Symposium demonstrated the ability of the Dfine Star tumour ablation system to provide significant pain relief to patients suffering from spinal metatases; in many cases, these patients had not responded to standard therapies, such as radiation or chemotherapy.

Analgesics do not improve function in patients with low back pain

A new study shows that analgesics for the treatment of chronic low back pain are not associated with significant improvements in function compared with placebo. However, it also indicated that there may be a subgroup of patients with chronic low back pain who do have a functional improvement with analgesics

More work is needed to identify anxiety in chronic low back...

The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale only has 58% sensitivity for anxiety among patients with chronic low back pain and a single-item question only has 68% sensitivity for the condition, indicating that additional work is needed to identify more sensitive instruments to screen for anxiety in this group of patients.

FDA clears BioStructures bioactive bone graft putty and bone graft extender

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted 510(k) clearance for bioactive bone graft putty (Signafuse). Signafuse is indicated for the posterolateral spine, extremities and pelvis as well as a bone graft extender in the posterolateral spine.

Aurora Spine receives FDA 510(k) clearance for sterile-packed TiNano coated interbody...

Aurora Spine has announced that it has received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 510(k) clearance for sterile-packed titanium plasma spray coated (TiNano) spinal fusion implants, developed to support the entire spine from cervical to lumbar.

Interventional Spine announces FDA clearance of additional sizes of Opticage expandable...

Interventional Spine has announced the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance of eleven additional sizes of the Opticage expandable interbody fusion device. The new sizes will allow surgeons to match an expandable Opticage to more than 80% of their patients requiring lumbar fusion surgery.

NuVasive announces executive leadership changes

NuVasive, a medical device company focused on developing minimally disruptive surgical products and procedures for the spine, has announced executive leadership changes.

EOS imaging announces two EOS system installations in Paris public hospitals

EOS imaging has announced two new installations of the EOS system, the first full-body, low dose 2D/3D imaging system, at the Lariboisière and Trousseau hospitals.

Zimmer launches Puros demineralised bone matrix block and strip in the...

Used alone or as a bone graft extender, Puros demineralised bone matrix allografts provide osteoconductive and osteoinductive properties, improved handling and excellent graft containment in a ready-to-use application.

Sleep apnoea is an independent risk factor for perioperative complications after...

A study published in The Bone & Joint Journal indicates that patients with sleep apnoea have an increased risk of perioperative complications following posterior lumbar fusion surgery compared with patients without sleep apnoea.

Seatbelts increase incidence of thoracic and lumbar spine fractures

A review of thoracic and lumbar spine fractures sustained during car crashes has found that appropriate use of a three-point seatbelt is associated with an increased incidence of these types of fractures compared with not using a seatbelt.

Aurora Spine announces 100th minimally invasive interspinous fusion system sold in...

Aurora Spine has announced that the 100th ZIP Ultra minimally invasive interspinous fusion system has been sold in Italy. The first surgery in Italy using that system occurred on September 30th, 2013.

DePuy Synthes Spine gains exclusive rights to launch LifeNet Health’s cellular...

According to a press release, the representative agreement marks the entry of DePuy Synthes Spine, in collaboration with DePuy Synthes Biomaterials, into cellular allografts for spinal fusion.

NICE consults on a new spine-straightening device for children with scoliosis

NICE is consulting on its draft medical technology guidance on a device that aims to straighten and lengthen the spine of children with scoliosis.

Westside Surgical Hospital obtains second Mazor Robotics Renaissance system

Westside Surgical Hospital has obtained a second Renaissance system from Mazor Robotics.

K2M celebrates its 10-year anniversary

K2M marked its 10-year anniversary with a statement by president and chief executive officer Eric Major, who said the company will continue to focus on improving in all areas of its business and holding itself to the highest standards during its next decade.

Best-in-show award for poster featuring Misonix’s BoneScalpel

Misonix has announced that a poster that features the company's BoneScalpel device presented at the 62nd Neurological Society of India annual conference has won a best-in-show award.

FDA clearance for Kiva treatment system for vertebral compression fractures

Benvenue Medical has received FDA 510(k) clearance for its Kiva system for the reduction and treatment of vertebral compression fractures. The system is a novel implant-based solution for vertebral augmentation and a departure from balloon kyphoplasty

Five new patents for Titan Spine

The US Patent and Trademark Office have awarded Titan Spine five new patents for the company's interbody fusion portfolio. These patents relate to the design of the company's Endoskeleton line of interbody devices as well as various aspects of composite devices featuring a combination of metal and polymer materials, such as PEEK.

Less experienced surgeons have a higher rate of vertebral artery injury

According to a study published in The Spine Journal, the incidence of vertebral artery injury is higher among less experienced surgeons compared with more experienced surgeons.

Rate of pedicle screw complications not drastically different in children compared...

While the rate of pedicle screw complications is higher among patients aged 0-10 years compared with patients aged 10-15 years, the rate is not significantly higher and is low overall.

Percutaneous image guided lumbar decompression can be used for eligible patients...

Vertiflex has announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will allow Medicare coverage of the company's Totalis direct decompression system for use in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis who are enrolled in an approved coverage with evidence development (CED) clinical study.

Stryker and NeuroLogica announce partnership to provide surgical navigation with BodyTom...

Stryker and NeuroLogica have formed an exclusive partnership agreement in which Stryker will promote and sell NeuroLogica's BodyTom portable full body CT scanner for the specialties of spinal surgery (among forms of surgery) in conjunction with Stryker's NAV3i surgical navigation platform.

K2M can now market Cayman minimally invasive in the USA

K2M has received FDA 510(k) clearance to market Cayman minimally invasive. The device is a single-level, lateral plate designed to offer surgeons a minimally invasive surgical option.

VERTOS IV study uses strict inclusion criteria

The principal investigators of the ongoing VERTOS IV (A randomised sham controlled trial of vertebroplasty for painful acute osteoporotic vertebral fractures) study spoke to Spinal News International about the study and the role of vertebroplasty today

iFuse implant has now been used in more 10,000 procedures

SI-Bone has announced that its iFuse implant system has been used in over 10,000 procedures worldwide, using over 29,000 iFuse implants

New chief operating officer for Alphatec Spine

Alphatec Spine has promoted Mike Plunkett to chief operating officer. Plunkett (who was appointed in 2012 as vice president operations) succeeds Pat Ryan, who announced his intention to resign from the company to pursue other opportunities.

DePuy Synthes Spine launches new allograft implant

DePuy Synthes Spine has launched a new allograft implant, Conform Sheet. The new implant is a hydrated, pliable and totally demineralised cancellous bone matrix that fills voids during posterolateral spinal fusion surgery and provides a natural scaffold for new bone formation.

SPORT shows surgery is better than conservative management at eight years

Data for the SPORT (Spine Patient Research Outcomes Trial) study indicate that lumbar disc herniation patients who underwent surgery achieved significantly greater improvement at eight years compared with those who underwent conservative management.

BioGlue is effective adjunct to immediate dural repair

A study published ahead of print in the European Spine Journal has found that BioGlue (CryoLife) "as an adjunct to immediate repair of a dural tear during spinal surgery "is associated with comparable safety and efficacy to Tissucol (Baxter).

Zimmer adds Paul Bisaro to its board of directors

Zimmer has announced that it has appointed Paul Bisaro, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Actavis, to its board of directors. Bisaro has served as president and chief executive officer and a member of the board of directors of Actavis (formerly Watson Pharmaceuticals) since 2007.

Two new orders for Renaissance system

Mazor Robotics has announced that it has received two new orders for its surgical guidance system (Renaissance) in the USA and in Israel in late December, meaning seven new Renaissance systems were ordered in the fourth quarter of 2013.

New device for correcting sagittal plane imbalance launched

NuVasive has launched the ALIF ACR "anterior lumbar interbody fusion; anterior column realignment "in the USA. The device is designed to correct the sagittal plane imbalance that results from advanced degeneration.

Steven McAllister to become chief financial officer for InVivo therapeutics

Steven McAllister will take up the role of interim chief financial officer on 31st December, replacing Gregory Perry (who is leaving the company on December 30 to join another local biotechnology company).

Remifentanil significantly reduces intraoperative blood loss in spinal surgery

The use of remifentanil rather than fentanyl as an adjuvant to general anaesthesia is associated with reduced intraoperative blood loss in patients undergoing laminoplasty or laminectomy.

Brace treatment effective for Cobb curves over 45 degrees

A prospective cohort study, published in The Spine Journal, suggests that brace treatment plus exercise is an effective treatment for still-growing patients with a Cobb angle above 45 degrees who have refused surgery.

Spinal cord stimulation for low back pain

James North, a pain specialist with the Carolinas Pain Institute and assistant professor at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA, presented interim data from the MAP study at the annual meeting of the International Spine Intervention Society (ISIS; 16-20 July, New York, USA). He spoke to Spinal News International about the use of spinal cord stimulation to manage low back pain.

Minimally invasive interspinous fusion system approved in USA

Aurora has announced that its minimally invasive interspinous fusion system, the Zip, has received FDA approval. The system was developed as an alternative to pedicle screw systems.

Sustained results at seven years with cervical disc replacement

Seven-year data for Medtronic's cervical disc replacement device Prestige indicates that the disc is associated with maintained clinical improvements and a lower rate of additional surgical procedures compared with anterior cervical discectomy and fusion.

Duke University Medical Center complete first surgical case using VISIUS iCT

Imris has announced that its intraoperative CT system, VISIUS iCT, has been used for the first time in a spinal surgery case at Duke University Medical Center (Durham, USA). The system provides on-demand access, state-of-the-art image quality during spinal procedures.

Osseon appoints Gary Hogman as its new regional sales director

Osseon has announced that Gary Hogman has joined the company as regional sales director. Hogman brings over fifteen years of experience in orthopaedic/spine medical device sales, surgeon training, field sales training, and surgical consulting to his new position at Osseon.

Pre-bent Flex+2 stabilisation platform now available for hybrid cases

SpineVision has announced that it has expanded its dynamic stabilisation platform portfolio with the addition of the pre-bent Flex+2 for use in hybrid cases and that it has received regulatory approval to market its Flex+2 products in Brazil.

Gregory T Lucier to join NuVasive’s board of directors

NuVasive has announced that Gregory T Lucier is to join its board of directors. Lucier is chairman and chief executive officer of Life Technologies Corporation, which recently agreed to be acquired by Thermo Fisher Scientific.

Antibacterial envelope approved for use with spinal cord neuromodulators

Tyrx has announced that it has received FDA approval for its antibacterial envelope, AIGISRx N, for use with spinal cord neuromodulators. The product was also recently approved for vagus nerve stimulators.

Orthofix International appoints Anthony F Martin to its board of directors

Orthofix International has appointed Anthony F Martin to its board of directors. Martin has more than 25 years of international experience in managing life science businesses in both executive and non-executive roles.

Titan Spine to hold workshop at DWG German Spine Conference

Titan Spine has announced that it will be holding an educational workshop at the DWG German Spine Conference (5-7 December, Frankfurt, Germany) on 6th December.

iFuse implant system could save Medicare US$660 million

A report in ClinicoEconomics and Outcomes Research indicates that the lifetime costs of treating appropriately selected Medicare patients with minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion (iFuse, SI-Bone) could result in savings from US $660 million to US $4 billion when compared with lifetime costs of non-operative care.

New study to evaluate if combination of peripheral nerve field stimulation...

St Jude Medical has commenced a trial that is evaluating the combination of peripheral nerve field stimulation with spinal cord stimulation vs. spinal cord stimulation alone for the management of low back pain and leg pain.

New data mean indications for rhBMP-2 need re-defining

Two recent meta-analyses, both published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, cast doubt on the clinical benefit of recombinant human bone morphogenic protein-2 (rhBMP-2; Infuse; Medtronic). Jan Sys examines the implications of the available data for the future use of rhBMP-2

Interspinous process device does not improve short-term outcomes for stenosis patients

Results from the FELIX (Foraminal enlargement lumbar interspinous distraxtion) trial suggest that the use of an interspinous process device (Coflex, Paradigm Spine) does not improve short-term outcomes compared with bony decompression in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis.

Higher incidence of vision loss with surgeries for spinal deformity correction

Although a rare complication overall, perioperative visual loss occurs more frequently in patients undergoing long-segment fusion and in those undergoing surgery for deformity correction than for patients undergoing other forms of spinal surgery.

Invibio announces news corporate identity

Invibio has announced that it has launched a new corporate identity to showcase its value and expertise in specific medical applications. It has also launched a new website.

New study to investigate higher dose of ISIS-SMN in children with...

Isis Pharmaceuticals has announced plans to investigate a higher dose of ISIS-SMN(Rx) in children with spinal muscular atrophy. It explains it will add a 12mg cohort to its ongoing phase 1b/2a study evaluating ISIS-SMN(Rx) in children with the condition.

Working together to address disc degeneration and low back pain

Dino Samartzis and Jaro Karppinen established the International Spine and Pain Consortium (ISPC) to bring together a multidisciplinary team of experts to address spine degeneration and pain. In this commentary, they discuss the current problems surrounding the management of disc degeneration and explain why a collaborative approach is needed if these problems are to be resolved

Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine start using Pediguard

SpineGuard has announced that leading spine surgeons in the department of orthopaedic surgery at Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine have started to use the company's Pediguard device.

Canadian Health Ministry approves NeuRx diaphragm pacing system for spinal cord...

Synapse Biomedical has announced that it has received Health Canada approval for its NeuRx diaphragm pacing system for managing spinal cord injury patients who lack voluntary control of their diaphragms.

Robot-assisted vertebral augmentation reduces radiation exposure time by 50%

Vertebral augmentation with a robotic guidance system was associated with a 50% reduction in radiation exposure time for the spinal surgeon and operating room staff compared with vertebral augmentation with other navigation systems.

Improving spinal care with activity monitors

Mobile technologies are increasingly used in healthcare to transmit patient data remotely, making recording patient data easier for both the doctor and the patient. Matthew Smuck, Stanford, USA, spoke to Spinal News International about the use of activity monitors for the management of spinal disorders.

Riluzole: A promising neuroprotective approach for acute spinal cord injury

Michael Fehlings highlights the progress made in understanding the pathobiology of spinal cord injury and reviews the role of riluzole (Rilutek, Sanofi-Aventis) as a potential neuroprotective approach for patients with acute spinal cord injury.

Helicopters are quicker than ground transportation but do not improve outcomes

Helicopter transportation of patients with spinal cord injuries is significantly quicker than ground transportation but is not associated with better outcomes.

Titan Spine and Biomet sign distribution agreement

After signing a distribution agreement with Titan Spine, Biomet is to distribute Titan Spine's Endoskeleton interbody fusion device in Germany.

Global launch new liquid allograft product

Aurora Spine has announced the global launch of its new liquid allograft product, AmnioPUR, and that the product has been used for the first time in the USA.

Amedica and K2M partner to expand distribution of silicon nitride interbody...

Amedica announced that it has entered into a distribution agreement with K2M that will provide surgeons and hospitals in Europe with access to Amedica's silicon nitride interbody spinal fusion devices.

SpineGuard obtains regulatory clearance to sell PediGuard Curved and Curved XS...

SpineGuard has obtained additional regulatory clearance from COFEPRIS (the Mexican healthcare regulatory authority) to sell its Curved and Curved XS PediGuard devices in Mexico. SpineGuard has previously received clearances for its Classic and Cannulated PediGuard devices.

Vertebral augmentation increases survival and cost savings

A study published in of The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery indicates that vertebral augmentation for the management of vertebral compression fractures is associated with improved patient survival and cost savings compared with conservative therapy.

Breiten illuminated retractor system launched at NASS

A new illuminated retractor system for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), anterior cervical corpectomy and other spinal procedures was launched at the North American Spine Society (NASS) annual meeting (9-12 October, New Orleans, USA).

First procedure that allows lateral access to all levels of lower...

Medtronic has launched the Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion 51 (OLIF51) procedure at the Congress of Neurological Surgeons annual meeting (CNS; 19-23 October, San Francisco, USA). The procedure is the first to offer lateral access to the most common operative level of the spine.

Antibiotics are insufficient treatment for large epidural abscesses

Surgery or a percutaneous drainage procedure is necessary to manage large epidural abscesses. However, smaller collections can be managed with antibiotics alone, according to Sina Pourtaheri, St Joseph Medical Center, Paterson, USA.

Disc degeneration in asymptomatic patients increases risk of low back pain

The largest, prospective study to ever assess MRI baseline risk factors for the development of low back pain has found an association between increasing disc degeneration score and increased risk of low back pain.

Valeo II fusion device launched

Amedica has launched a new silicon nitride anterior lumbar interbody fusion device; the device, according to Amedica, includes enhancements that contribute to improved surgeon ease of use and quality patient care.

Empowering spinal patients with information could mean better outcomes

Philip Sell, incoming president of EuroSpine, speaks in an interview about his upcoming presidency, the aims of the society and how EuroSpine is using online media to empower and inform patients who are faced with spinal disorders.

Apelo MIS Pedicle Screw System launched for percutaneous and mini-open procedures

Atlas Spine on 3 October announced today the full release of its Apelo MIS (minimally invasive) Pedicle Screw System. The Apelo MIS Pedicle Screw System is a spinal implant system used in the treatment of spinal disorders such as degenerative disc disease and deformity.

SpineGuard to launch two new products from its PediGuard platform at...

SpineGuard is launching the XS Classic PediGuard and XS Curved PediGuard at this week's annual scientific meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS) in New Orleans (9-12 October).

Market launch of three new X-spine spinal implant systems

X-spine has launched three recently US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared spinal implant systems. The systems are the IRIX-C cervical integrated interbody fusion system, the AXLE-X extended angle interspinous fixation system and the SILEX sacroiliac joint fusion system.

Synflate vertebral balloon introduced for osteoporosis-related fractures

DePuy Synthes Spine announced the launch of the new Synflate Vertebral Balloon as part of its portfolio of procedural solutions for the treatment vertebral compression fractures.

Two-year clinical experiences with Renaissance presented at North American Spine Society...

Mazor Robotics exhibited the Renaissance Guidance System at NASS. Twenty four-month clinical experience with the system was also presented to delegates.

mPACT Program for posterior mini-open fixation and fusion procedures launched

DePuy Synthes Spine announced the global launch of mPACT (Medialised posterior approach cortical trajectory), a programme that combines implants, education, clinical research and procedural support for posterior mini-open fixation and fusion procedures.

Santorini Small Corpectomy Cage System adds to K2M’s spinal offerings

K2M announced the launch of the Santorini Small Corpectomy Cage System. The corpectomy cages are designed to address collapsed, damaged, or unstable vertebral bodies resulting from trauma or tumour indications.

William C Watters III named president of North American Spine Society

During the 28th Annual Meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS), William C Watters III, was named the 2013-14 NASS president. Watters is an orthopaedic surgeon from Houston, USA.

Is spinal surgery more risky and less successful than common knee...

A new study refutes the commonly-held belief that routine spine surgery is more prone to "fail" or be more dangerous than popular knee and hip replacement surgeries. The study was presented at the 28th annual meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS) in New Orleans, USA (9-12 October).

KIVA vertebral augmentation system lowers cement leakage

At EuroSpine (2-4 October, Liverpool, UK), Panagiotis Korovessis reported the results of a study that indicated the KIVA vertebral augmentation system was associated with a significantly lower rate of cement leakage than balloon kyphoplasty for the management of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures.

US launch of the XLIF Decade Plate announced

The XLIF Decade Plate System is designed to provide a simple, yet comprehensive, stabilisation solution with four points of fixation for enhanced biomechanical rigidity and load sharing, according to NuVasive. The company has announced the US launch of the XLIF Decade.

Deaths due to medical error during spinal surgery are rare

A review of outcome data for surgery for degenerative spine disorders shows that surgery is safe in this patient population and deaths related to medical errors are rare.

Philip Sell

Philip Sell, consultant orthopaedic and spinal surgeon, University Hospitals of Leicester and Queens Medical Centre Nottingham (UK), is the 2013-14 president of EuroSpine. He spoke to Spinal News International about his career highlights and the key themes of this year's EuroSpine meeting (2-4 October, Liverpool, UK).

Allograft product will raise more than US$250,000 for children’s charities

By donating all profits from sales of its Hero allograft product, Spinal Elements will have raised more than US$250,000 for children's charities by the end of 2013. The charities include the Make-A-Wish Foundation and St Jude Children's Research Hospital.

First surgeries with Precept performed in Japan

After receiving regulatory Shonin approval for its Precept products in July, NuVasive has announced the first surgeries with the posterior fixation system have been performed in Japan.

Alphatec to exhibit portfolio of products at EuroSpine

Alphatec will be presenting a portfolio of its products at EuroSpine (2-4 October, Liverpool, UK) this week. These products will be from the company's minimally invasive, degenerative, deformity, interbody, cervical and biologics segments.

K2M enters spinal device market in France

K2M announced at the Scoliosis Research Society's (SRS) 48th Annual Conference in Lyon, France, that it has entered the spinal device market in France.

Misonix supports Uganda Spine Surgery Mission with Ultrasonic BoneScalpel

Misonix has announced that it supported this year's Uganda Spine Surgery Mission organised by leading spine surgeon Isador Lieberman, from the Texas Back Institute in Plano, USA, by donating the use of the ultrasonic BoneScalpel during the performed spinal surgeries.

Incidence of spinal trauma has increased in modern warfare

The incidence of spinal trauma incurred by military personnel in Iraq or Afghanistan exceeds the incidence of spinal trauma reported in previous conflicts "possibly by a factor as high as 10.

Improvement with chiropractic treatment is not clinically important

Short-term usual chiropractic care is superior to sham treatment for the management of spinal pain, but differences between treatments are small and not clinically important.

FDA 510(k) clearance for next generation percutaneous vertebral augmentation

Crosstrees Medical announced FDA clearance of its PVA Pod System. According to the company, the system has demonstrated a significant reduction in new fracture rates that are associated with vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty procedures.

Benvenue Medical hosting symposium at CIRSE

Benvenue Medical is hosting a satellite symposium on its Kiva system, which is used to treat vertebral compression fractures, at the upcoming annual meeting of the Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE).

New senior vice president for Mazor Robotics

Christopher Prentice has been promoted to senior vice president, America & Global Marketing, at Mazor Robotics. He will oversee Mazor's commercial and sales operations in the Americas while also continuing to oversee the company's global marketing strategy.

Joimax will present its MIS fusion system at Eurospine

Joimax has announced it will be launching its EndoLIF oblique cage at Eurospine (2-4 October, Liverpool, UK). The system is first endoscopic assisted interbody fusion device.

New PEEK-based polymer launched

Invibio Biomaterial Solutions has announced the global launch of its PEEK-OPTIMA HA enhanced polymer. The new polymer combines PEEK-OPTIMA and Hydroxyapatite (HA)

Slimplicity SOLO anterior cervical plate system is now available in USA

Precision Spine has announced that it has launched its Slimplicity SOLO anterior cervical plate system on to the USA market. The system is comprised of one and two-level plates and 4.5mm fixed and variable screws, along with a colour-coded instrument set.

Titan Spine surface technology may enhance bone growth

A study published ahead of print in The Spine Journal indicates that Titan Spine's surface technology is associated with an increase in the production of key angiogenic factors compared with PEEK.

EUROSPINE wants to become “leading spine society in Europe”

The executive committee of EUROSPINE has announced that it is "seeking to position EUROPSINE the leading spine society in Europe".

New senior vice president for IlluminOss Medical

IlluminOss Medical has announced that it has appointed Dwayne Montgomery, who was formerly the vice-president of commercial operations at TranS1 (now Baxano Surgical), as its new senior vice-president of sales and marketing.

Osseon launches first steerable balloon for managing vertebral compression fractures

Osseon has announced that it has brought the first steerable balloon for the treatment of vertebral compression fracture to market.

SpineGuard adds new products to its Pediguard platform

After receiving FDA 510(k) clearance for three new products, SpineGuard has added to its Pediguard platform of single-use drilling instruments that secure the pedicle screw pilot hole.

Occupational drivers have a significant risk of low back pain

According to a new study in The Spine Journal, occupational drivers have a small but significantly increased risk of low back pain compared with people from different occupations.

Spinal cord injury increases risk of cardiovascular disease

Spinal cord injury, which is associated with a higher prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular disease, independently increases the risk of both heart disease and stroke, according to a new study in Neurology.

Driving a new standard of care

Bryan J McEntire, chief technology officer for Amedica Corporation outlines why he believes Silicon Nitride overcomes the limitations of the materials currently used in fusion surgery.

Switching to denosumab saves money by preventing skeletal-related events

A study published in the European Journal of Hospital Pharmacy indicates that switching patients with solid tumours and bone metastases from zoledronic acid (Zometa, Novartis) to denosumab (Xgeva, Amgen) may result in cost savings due to the reduction in skeletal-related events.

Cooled saline during bone drilling may reduce upper-limb palsy

Shota Takenaka (Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Osaka Kosei-nenkin Hospital, Fukushima, Japan) and others have reported that the use of cooled saline during bone drilling for cervical laminoplasty may reduce the incidence of upper-limb palsy.

CE mark for new minimally invasive fusion system

The ZIP minimally invasive surgery (MIS) interspinous fusion system (Aurora Spine) has been CE marked. A company press release reports that it is the first device to use "ZIP-LOCK" technology to provide stabilisation of the spine for spinal surgery.

AccuLIF expandable interbody devices are now FDA approved

CoAlign Innovations has announced the FDA clearance of its AccuLIF expandable (XL) interbody device product line for lateral surgical approaches. This approval means that the product line joins CoAlign Innovations' AccuLIF TL (for transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion) and AccuLIF PL (for posterior lumbar interbody fusion) range of implants.

FDA approval for the Mobi-C disc at one level

The Mobi-C cervical disc has received FDA approval for commercial sale and distribution. The disc is indicated at one level and is a cobalt chromium alloy and polyethylene, mobile-bearing prosthesis.

New spinal surgery table launched

Mizuho OSI has announced the launch of its new spinal surgery table "the proAxis. The table features software-controlled, advanced-hinge technology designed to support the biomechanical aspects of spinal and imaging procedures.

NuVasive expands and relocates UK office

NuVasive reports that the office relocation will enable the company to better execute its market share taking strategy across Northern Europe. It adds that the modern two-story, 7,500 square foot facility provides dedicated space for staff training and surgeon events.

NASS raises money for surgical equipment at Shriners Hospital

The North American Spine Society (NASS) is asking for donations for "much-needed" surgical equipment at Shriners Hospital for Children in Shreveport, USA. The society says that the hospital has asked them to help raise at least US$21,000 toward new surgical equipment.

IMRIS obtains CE mark for first ceiling-mounted intraoperative CT solution

IMRIS has announced that it has obtained regulatory CE mark for VISIUS iCT, the first and only ceiling-mounted intraoperative computed tomography, allowing for sales and marketing in the European Union, according to a company release.

New pedicle screw fixation system launched

Zimmer has announced it has begun distribution, under the terms of a long-term agreement with SpineCraft, of a new pedicle screw fixation system, the Apex, in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. It stated that the new system is designed to safely and effectively correct a broad range of spinal deformities, as well as complex and degenerative spinal diseases.

First MRI-safe neurostimulation device launched

An implantable FDA-approved neurostimulation device has been launched by Medtronic. According to the company, it is the first and only system which can be used in conjunction with MRI in the treatment of chronic pain, spinal disease, neurological and orthopaedic disorders.

New data show Aspen MIS fusion reduces risk of recurrent disc...

Lanx has announced that a new study (published ahead of print in Surgical Technology International) that suggests that using the Aspen minimally invasive surgery (MIS) fusion system in conjunction with lumbar discectomy can help decrease the incidence of subsequent disc herniation, while providing a less invasive fusion procedure.

Pelvic-incidence lumbar lordosis mismatch may be a primary surgical indicator for...

A new study suggests that patients with adult spinal deformity should be assessed for pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) mismatch (PI-LL >10 degrees) as it may be a primary indication for surgery in the setting of pain and disability.

Escaping reality is a poor coping method for dealing with spinal...

Taylor Smith (Division of Behavioural Genetics, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, USA) and others, reported in Spinal Cord that adolescent spinal cord injury patients who use escape-oriented methods, such as wishful thinking, to come to terms with their injury have lower psychosocial health scores than patients who use more active coping methods.

Magnetic growth rods could potentially avoid spinal trauma

Kenneth MC Cheung, Hong Kong, will be giving the talk "Magnetic growth rods in early onset scoliosis" at the 9th combined congress of the Asia Pacific Spine Society and Asia Pacific Orthopaedic Association Paediatric section (29-31 August, Kuching, Malaysia). He spoke to Spinal News International about these devices.

Ultrasonic bone cutting system reduces blood loss

A study presented at the 20th International Meeting on Advanced Spine Techniques (IMAST; 10-13 July, Vancouver, Canada) indicates that an ultrasonic bone cutting system (BoneScalpel, Misonix) is associated with meaningful reductions in blood loss.

Success criteria in phase III study of Biostat fibrin sealant not...

Spinal Restoration has announced that the results of its phase III study of Biostat Biologx fibrin sealant indicate that the novel drug is not significantly more beneficial than saline injection in patients with single-level discogenic back pain.

Sintea Plustek launches implants made of Zeniva PEEK resin

After receiving the CE mark for its Domino cervical fusion cage implant, which is made from Solvay Specialty Polymers' Zeniva PEEK resin, Sintea Plustek has launched the product in Europe.

Studies support use of 3D imaging in assessing corrective bracing of...

According to EOS imaging, two new studies support the use of its 3D imaging technology for assessing the impact of bracing for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

PCM cervical disc continues to maintain motion at five years

New data for the PCM cervical disc (NuVasive) indicate that the device maintains motion and continues to achieve clinical outcomes at least equivalent to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion at five years.

Four new patents for Titan Spine

Titan Spine has been granted four new patents for its Endoskeleton interbody devices and specialised system instrumentation.

New anterior cervical interbody system launched in USA

ulrich Medical announced that it has launched the uCerv, a new anterior cervical interbody system, on to the USA market.

RTI completes acquisition of Pioneer

RTI Biologics has announced that it has completed the acquisition of Pioneer Surgical Technology (Pioneer).

Boulder Neurological & Spine Association work alongside Justin Parker Neurological Institute...

Boulder Neurosurgical & Spine Associates and the Justin Parker Neurological Institute have announced that they are among approximately 30 sites in the USA participating in the ACADIA clinical trial.

Non-idiopathic form of early onset scoliosis is associated with more complications

A validation study for the classification of early onset scoliosis indicates that patients with non-idiopathic, early onset scoliosis have more frequent and more severe complications than patients with idiopathic, early onset scoliosis.

Steven D Glassman

Steven D Glassman is the president-elect of the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS). He talked to Spinal News International about his goals for the SRS, why he thinks the evolution of neuromonitoring has dramatically changed spinal surgery, and his current research interests.

“We need a specific language for adult deformity”

Frank Schwab, clinical professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Center for Musculoskeletal Care, New York, USA, spoke to Spinal News International about the clinical relevance of The Schwab Adult Spinal Deformity Classification which was revised last year.

Ken Yamada is new chief operating officer of SpineVision

SpineVision has announced it has appointed Ken Yamada as its new chief operating officer. Yamada was a former executive at Wright Medical.

NuVasive exhibiting at IMAST

NuVasive has announced it will be at the 20th International Meeting on Advanced Spine Techniques (IMAST; 10-13 July, Vancouver, Canada).

Medtronic launches new screw for its CD Horizon Solera spinal system

Medtronic has launched a new screw "the sagittal adjusting screw "for its CD Horizon Solera spinal system. The new screw features a fixed head made of cobalt chrome that contains a sliding saddle.

Cannulated Pediguard can now be sold in Mexico

SpineGuard has announced that it has received SpineGuard has announced that it now has clearance from COFEPRIS, the Mexican regulatory body, to sell its cannulated Pediguard in Mexico

New expandable lumbar interbody spacer launched

Globus Medical has announced the launch of its new minimally invasive expandable lumbar spacer "the Latis.

Further studies needed to justify robot-assisted surgery

A review of studies comparing robot-assisted pedicle screw placement with fluoroscopy-guided pedicle screw placement found insufficient evidence to recommend one technique over the other, meaning that more data is needed.

From a handful to hundreds: 21 years of the ISIS annual...

The International Spine Intervention Society (ISIS) will hold its 21st annual scientific meeting this year (16-20 July, New York, USA). The president of the society, Ray Baker (Washington Interventional Spine Associates, Kirkland, USA) and vice president Jeffrey Summers (NewSouth NeuroSpine, Mississippi's Spine Center, Jackson, USA) spoke to Spinal News International about how the meeting has developed over the last 21 years.

Disc-level canal diameter predicts risk of spinal cord injury after minor...

A disc-level canal diameter cutoff value of 8mm could predict the risk of acute spinal cord injury after minor trauma.

Orthofix announces full-market release and launch of Trinity Elite

Orthofix announced on 1 July, in collaboration with the Musculoskeletal Transplant Foundation, the full-market release of Trinity Elite allograft with viable cells and VersaShield amniotic membrane tissue forms through both of its Spine Fixation and US Extremity Fixation distribution channels.

Physiotherapy may empower disc herniation patients

A study suggests that after disc herniation surgery, structured physiotherapy may empower patients

Globus launches LATIS minimally invasive expandable lumbar interbody spacer

Globus Medical has announced the launch of LATIS, a minimally-invasive lumbar interbody fusion spacer for patients suffering from degenerative disc disease.

New bone graft putty to launch with FDA approval

Synergy Biomedical has announced that it has recently received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance and will be launching its first bone graft product, BioSphere putty.

St Mary’s Healthcare acquires Mazor Robotics’ renaissance system

A press release has reported the first Hospital in the northeastern US market to install the company's surgical guidance system.

rhBMP-2 has little or no clinical benefit over bone graft

After Medtronic provided full data for all of its trials of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 (rhBMP-2; Infuse), two independent reviews have found that the product provides little or no clinical benefit over bone graft and may be associated with potential harms.

US patent for Pediguard pedicle screw

SpineGuard has announced it has received a US patent for the integration of its Pediguard sensor technology directly onto the tip of a pedicle screw

Worse progression-free survival with grade I spinal ependymomas compared with grade...

A new study suggests, contrary to WHO classification, grade I spinal ependymomas are associated with worse survival rates than grade II ependymomas

The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia installs EOS imaging system

EOS imaging has announced that the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Philadelphia, USA, has installed its imaging system

Osseon launches Osseoflex CD-H hydraulic cement delivery system

Osseon has announced the launch of a new vertebral compression fracture product "the Osseoflex CD-H hydraulic cement delivery system.

RSB Spine signs exclusive distribution agreement with JMF of Thailand

RSB Spine has announced it has announced it has signed an exclusive distribution and licensing agreement with JMF to allow JMF to distribute RSB Spine's products in Asia.

Health Canada gives go ahead to expand spine injury study

Health Canada has given StemCells approval to expand its phase I/II clinical trial for chronic spinal cord injury.

FDA gives 510(k) clearance to Providence Medical Technology’s cervical cage

The PMT cervical sage is a novel minimally-invasive implant and delivery system for cervical fusion procedures in skeletally mature patients with degenerative disc disease of the cervical spine (C3-C7), with accompanying radicular symptoms at one disc level.

New vertebral augmentation system launched

Stryker Interventional Spine has announced that it has launched its 11g iVAS balloon system onto the market.

CE mark for ReDuX Plier instrument for spinal deformity surgery

Medtronic's ReDuX Plier instrument, which is a new device for performing osteotomies in spinal deformity surgery, has received the CE mark.

Star tumour ablation system offers rapid palliative treatment for radioresistant spinal...

Results presented at the 2013 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting (31 May-4 June, Chicago, USA) indicate that targeted radiofrequency ablation (t-RFA) of metastatic posterior vertebral body lesions in patients with soft tissue sarcomas is associated with safe and effective pain relief.

St Jude Medical signs agreement to distribute Axium neurostimulator system

St Jude Medical has announced that it has entered into a series of agreements with Spinal Modulation, giving the company the exclusive option to distribute Spinal Modulation's Axium neurostimulator system.

Pioneer Surgical Technology announces the launch of Streamline MIS spinal fixation...

Pioneer Surgical Technology has announced the launch of the Streamline MIS spinal fixation system. According to the company the system offers a broad range of implants and instruments.

Still unclear what causes of high prevalence of low back pain...

Teija Lund (ORTON Orthopaedic Hospital, Helsinki, Finland) told delegates attending the annual meeting of the European Federation of National Associations of Orthopaedics and Traumatology (EFORT; 5-6 June, Istanbul, Turkey) that it is still unknown why the incidence of low back among adolescents and children has increased.

Postmarket surveillance data shows low complaint rate with iFUSE implant system

A postmarket safety data report, published in Medical Devices: Evidence and Research, for SI-BONE's iFuse implant system indicates a low rate of complaints with the system.

Rainer’s founding director given Chapman Medal

Geoffrey Andrews, the founder director of Rainer, has been awarded the Materials Minerals and Mining's Chapman Medal.

Spinal Elements license portfolio of products for the lumbar spine

Spinal Elements has announced that they have licensed a portfolio of patents essential for accessing the lumbar spine from a lateral approach and placing implants from that approach.

NuVasive launches new posterior lumbar fusion procedure

NuVasive has announced the launch of MAS PLIF "a new posterior interbody lumbar fusion procedure.

Teriparatide and denosumab combination significantly increases bone mineral density compared with...

The combination of teriparatide and denosumab significantly increased bone mineral density at all sites than either drug alone in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis

No difference in risk of vertebral artery injury between screw techniques

Contrary to the commonly-held view that C2 pedicle screw combined with C1 lateral mass screw placement is inherently safer than C1-C2 transarticular screw fixation, the former technique is not associated with a lower risk of vertebral artery injury than the latter technique except in the presence of a high-riding vertebral artery.

FDA approves X-spine’s Zygafix facet fusion system

X-spine has announced that it has received FDA clearance for its new spinal implant system, the Zygafix.

Joimax debuts EndoLIF at German neurosurgery conference

Joimax presented, for the first time, its novel endoscopic stabilisation system for the lumbar spine - EndoLIF - at the annual meeting of the German Society of Neurosurgery (DGNC; 26-29 May, Dusseldorf, Germany).

Lanx launches its Timberline lateral modular plate fixation system

Lanx has announced that the initial launch of its Timberline lateral modular plate fixation system, stating that it was the first modular anchored interbody device for lateral fusion.

Jack Zigler

Jack Zigler is the medical director of the Texas Back Institute, Plano, USA, and is the associate editor of the International Journal of Spine Surgery. He spoke to Spinal News International about his career achievements and research interests.

Back pain in patients under 20 may not be a “red...

Back pain in patients under the age of 20 is seen as "red flag" "a potential indicator of spinal tumours or spinal infection. James Hiett reports the results of his study, which suggest that this "red flag" is of dubious significance

K2M launches MESA small stature system in in Australia, New Zealand,...

K2M has announced the launch of its MESA small stature spinal system in the Australian, New Zealand, and European spine markets.

Medications used in discography may contribute to disc degeneration

Intradisc medication may decrease cell counts and cell proliferaiton, suggesting it may contribute to disc degeneration. A study published in The Spine Journal has found.

Percutaneous pedicle screw placement significantly increases risk of facet violation

According to a new study in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, percutaneous placement of pedicle screws significantly increases the risk of facet joint violation compared with open screw placement.

New products added to Vertex Select reconstruction system

Medtronic has announced that it has added several new lines to its Vertex Select reconstruction system.

NuVasive opens new office in Japan

NuVasive has announced that it has opened a new office in Tokyo, Japan.

K2M launches Vesuvius DBM putty

K2M has announced it has added DBM putty to its Vesuvius osteobiologic systems range.

First international conference on PEEK research

The first international meeting on PEEK material will be held this week (25-26 April) in Philadelphia, USA.

Helping patients to understand spinal disease will help to allay their...

Myths about the supposed pitfalls of receiving treatment for back problems can prevent some patients from seeking treatment and to be unnecessarily afraid of having spinal surgery. Joseph Cheng looks at what these myths are and how patients' fears can be put to rest.

Hensler Bone Press will be presented at AANS

Hensler Surgical Products will display and demonstrated its Bone Press at the American Association of Neurological Surgeons Annual Meeting.

Study supports use of Endoskeleton interbody device

A study presented at the annual meeting of the International Society for the Advancement of Spine Surgery (ISASS; 3-5 April 2013, Vancouver, Canada) indicated that Titan Spine's Endoskeleton interbody device is associated with a 100% fusion rate.

Boston Scientific launches Fixate Tissue Band in the USA

After acquiring the Fixate Tissue Band from Anulex Technologies, Boston Scientific has launched the product onto the USA market.

Significant palliation of spinal tumours with ablation system

Two studies presented at the Society of Interventional Radiology's annual scientific meeting indicate that targeted-radiofrequency ablation therapy is associated with clinically significant palliation of painful spinal metastases

Higher rates of reoperation with interspinous spacer

A study presented at ISASS indicates that the interspinous spacer X-Stop (Medtronic), compared with decompressive surgery, is associated with higher rates of reoperation but similar patient-reported outcomes in patients with neurogenic claudication.

Satisfaction is not a guarantee of quality

A new study suggests that patient satisfaction should not be used to measure overall quality or effectiveness of spinal surgery

NuVasive will be at ISASS

NuVasive has announced that it will be exhibiting at ISASS (2-6 April, Vancouver, Canada).

K2M launches Venado foam strips and Venado granules bone graft systems

According to a company press release, the systems are available in a variety of configurations and sizes specifically designed to enhance bone regeneration and act as an osteogenic stimulus after spine surgery.

Valeo device implanted in 10,000th patient

Amedica has announced that the 10,000th patient has been implanted with its Valeo interbody fusion device

Spinal surgery study reports use of BoneScalpel for osteoplastic laminoplasty

A study, accepted for publication in Neurosurgery, has reported on the use of Misonix's BoneScalpel for osteoplastic laminoplasty.

Two patents issued for Hatch Medical’s percutaneous spinal stabilisation system

Hatch Medical has announced that it has received two US patents for its percutaneous spinal stabilisation system.

AANS and CNS now say no to steroids in acute spinal...

The Joint Section on Disorders of the Spine and Peripheral Nerves of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons and the American Association of Neurological Surgeons has now advised against the use of steroids in acute spinal cord injury in the first 24-48 hours after an injury is sustained.

No fault compensation schemes do not affect surgery outcomes

A study, presented at BASS, indicated that unlike traditional workers' compensation schemes, "no-fault" compensation schemes do not negatively affect patient outcomes.

Lumbar fusion is not necessarily the best option in chronic low...

According to an 11-year follow-up study of patients with chronic low back pain, lumbar fusion surgery is not associated with significantly better outcomes than non-operative management.

Hee Kit Wong

Hee Kit Wong is on the board of directors for the International Society for the Advancement of Spinal Surgery (ISASS) and was recently awarded the Singapore National Outstanding Clinician Award for his contribution to the development of spinal surgery in Singapore. He spoke to Spinal News International about his career and the need to accurately image pain.

“Educating the patient with clarity is essential”

Heidi Prather spoke at NASS about "What we know about postoperative training in the spine patient". She talked to Spinal News International about this topic.

Totalis direct decompression system successfully used in first patient

VertiFlex has announced that the first patient has been successfully treated with its Totalis direct decompression system.

VEO interbody fusion system uses Zeniva PEEK

Solvay Specialty Polymers has announced that Trans1's recently commercialised VEO interbody fusion system includes a fusion cage implant made from Solvay's Zenvia PEEK.

DSM signs licence to allow SpineVision to use Bionate II PCU

DSM has announced that it has signed a licence and supply agreement that allows Spine Vision to use DSM's Bionate II PCU polymer.

Stryker launches new percutaneous pedicle screw system

The ES2 is a percutaneous pedicle screw system for use in minimally invasive spinal surgery procedures.

FDA approves anterior lumbar interbody fusion device

The FDA has approved Alphatec's Solus internal fixation anterior lumbar interbody fusion device.

Invibio Biomaterial Solutions have reached clearance milestones with approved implantable devices...

According to Invibio, medical devices manufactured from PEEK-OPTIMA have reached 500 devices that have been approved in the USA and more than 80 approved for market in China. Craig Valentine, Invibio director of Regulatory Affairs, said: "As medical device companies look for growth in Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC), as evidenced by recent market acquisitions, knowledge and experience of the regulatory pathway is an advantage to speeding access to market".

Aspen minimally invasive fusion system associated with improved patient outcomes

Data presented at the AANS/CNS Joint Section Meeting (6-9 March 2013, Phoenix, USA) indicates that the Aspen minimally invasive fusion system is associated with high fusion rates and improved patient outcomes.

NLT Spine opens a subsidiary in the USA

NLT Spine has opened a subsidiary in the USA to support the commercialisation of its advanced technology platform.

Mazor Robotics’ Renaissance technology receives regulatory approval in Australia

After receiving regulatory approval, Mazor Robotics can now market its Renaissance technology in Australia.

New cervical fusion implant system launched

Aesculap has announced the launch of the PL-AGE system, which is a stand-alone device for anterior cervical spinal fusion procedures.

Nanotechnology has potentially revolutionary benefits for spinal surgery

Bradley K Weiner, director, Spine Advanced Technology Laboratory, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, USA, talked to Spinal News International about the role of nanotechnology in spinal surgery.

Cumulative low back load is a significant risk factor for low...

Cumulative low back load is more a significant risk factor for low back pain than the number of lifts in a working day or time spent in a flexed position.

Thickness of fat, not BMI, is a significant risk factor for...

A greater depth of fat at the surgical site in patients undergoing cervical spine fusion surgery increases the risk of infection but an increased body mass index does not.

Lanx announces initial launch of ALTA stand-alone system

Lanx has announced the initial launch of its ALTA stand-alone system for anterior cervical fusion system and that the product will be featured at the AANS/CNS Joint Section meeting.

Amedica receives new patent for an artificial disc

Amedica has received a new patent for an artificial disc that uses the company's proprietary silicon nitride ceramic material.

New results for targeted radiofrequency ablation support its use for treating...

A study presented at the American Society of Spine Radiology annual meeting (21-24 February, Scottsdale, USA) reinforces earlier clinical reports of targeted radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of spinal tumours.

Studies demonstrate effectiveness of minimally-invasive cooled radiofrequency treatment for low-back pain

The studies evaluated Kimberly-Clark's TransDiscal cooled radiofrequency system and SInergy cooled radiofrequency system and they demonstrated that both treatment options provided patients with pain relief and improved quality of life benefits.

TranS1 announces agreement to acquire Baxano

TranS1 has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Baxano.

Ascendx Spine receives the Southeast Medical Device Association “Spotlight” award

The Southeast Medical Device Association has given Ascendx Spine its Spotlight award for the best presentation at its annual conference.

Postmarketing study launched for XPED expanding pedicle screw system

Expanding Orthopedics has announced that it has launched a new postmarketing study, in Germany, for its XPED expanding pedicle screw system.

NuVasive announces first patients in Japan treated with the XLIF surgical...

NuVasive has announced that the very first extreme lateral interbody fusion procedures in Japan were performed at two different hospitals.

SpineGuard receives regulatory clearance to sell its PediGuard platform in Russia

SpineGuard has announced that it has received regulatory approval from the Roszdravnadzor, the Russian healthcare agency that oversees medical devices, to market its PediGuard system in Russia.

Many highlights at EFORT 2013

There will be many highlights at EFORT 2013, including the presentation of 600 papers.

Rainer launches new product website

Rainer has launched www.Cadisc.com, a new website that provides information about its intervertebral disc implants, Cadisc-C and Cadisc-L.

TranS1 appoints Mark Stautberg to board of directors

TransS1 has announced that it has appointed Mark Stautberg to its board of directors.

3D conformal treatment planning “significantly better” for spinal cord and bowel...

Compared with the traditional anterior-posterior or posterior-anterior approaches to delivering external beam radiation to treat of lumbar vertebral metastases, 3D conformal treatment planning is associated with reduced exposure to the spine and bowel.

New ratio could be used to detect spinal malalignment

A new study, published in the European Spine Journal, outlines the lumbar lordosis index as a new ratio for detecting spinal malalignment.

Finding solutions to common surgical problems

Thomas Melin and Sean Hensler describe how they developed a "now FDA-approved "solution to recovering autologous bone graft.

TranS1 announces coverage milestone

TranS1 has released details of "significant milestone" coverage of pre-sacral interbody fusion in the USA.

CE mark for ApiFix’s adolescent idiopathic scoliosis correction system

According to a company press release, the correction system minimises risk, pain and scarring for the patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and also speeds recovery.

New spacer using Evonik’s Vestakeep PEEK receives FDA approval

For the first time, the FDA has approved a new cervical spacer "K7 LLC's K7C "that uses Evonik's Vestakeep PEEK for use as an interbody fusion device.

Adjusting the body’s motor reflexes could improve mobility in patients with...

A new study indicates that reflex control could help improve mobility in patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries

Amedica announces new additions to its executive team

Spinal and reconstructive medical device manufacturer Amedica has expand its executive team with marketing, sales, legal and compliance executives to help promote adoption of the company's proprietary silicon nitride technology.

Integra LifeSciences announces three-year contract with Premier Healthcare alliance

Integra LifeSciences now has a three-year contract with one of the USA's largest group purchasing organisations " Premier healthcare alliance.

Chronic pain treatments are failing European patients

A new survey indicates that one third of patients with chronic pain have problems completing routine daily tasks because of their symptoms.

July intake of new residents and fellows has a minimal effect...

There is little evidence to support the supposed "July effect" "the idea that the new intake of fellows and residents at teaching hospitals aT the start of the academic year in July has a negative effective on patient outcomes "in spinal surgery.

Impact of adult spinal deformity on physical function similar to impact...

The idea that patients with adult spinal deformity do not have a "true reason for disability" is mistaken because the impact of condition is actually similar to the impact of conditions such as cancer, a study presented at NASS found.

New imaging techniques: Are they helpful?

Jeffrey C Lotz, professor, vice chair of research, UCSF Orthopaedic Bioengineering Laboratory, San Francisco, USA, reviews the pros and cons of using new imaging techniques to diagnose spinal disorders.

Misonix BoneScalpel subject of new clinical paper

Bone cutting device reported as being "safe and efficient" in new study

Mazor Robotics’ Renaissance technology receives Health Canada license

The Health Canada license encompasses Renaissance use in both spinal and brain applications, subject to specifications outlined in the clearance documents.

Medtronic initiates landmark study of neurostimulation therapy for failed back surgery...

First patients treated in global clinical trial evaluating impact of neurostimulation therapy on predominant low back pain.

Dfine launches StabiliT ERX

Dfine launches its latest product in its line of energy-responsive, ultra-high viscosity bone cements.

Revision open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion does not increase risk of...

Compared with primary open transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF), revision TLIF surgery does not increase the risk of complications but revision surgery after more than two prior surgeries could increase the risk of dural tear and neural injury.

Disproportion of endplates may be a significant and independent risk factor...

Differences in endplate diameter of adjacent vertebral bodies may increase the risk of disc herniation, a study ahead of print in The Spine Journal reports.

Study demonstrates 94% improvement in back and leg pain for patients...

HydroCision has announced that the results from a newly published, multicentre, peer-reviewed study have demonstrated a 94% improvement in back and leg pain in patients undergoing its water-based hydrodiscectomy procedure.

EOS imaging system installed at hospital for special surgery in New...

The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) in New York, USA, has installed the EOS imaging system, which can be used to obtain high-quality orthopaedic scans with reduced radiation dose

VertiFlex announces FDA clearance of two key additions to its technology...

After receiving FDA 510(k) clearance for the Totalis direct decompression system and the UniVis spinous process fixation system, VertiFlex has added the products to its portfolio.

Solvay Specialty Polymers announces availability of Solviva biomaterials in China

Solvay Specialty Polymers' Solviva biomaterials line of plastics is now available in China and will primarily be targeted at orthopaedic and cardiovascular applications.

Orthofix launches its Construx mini PEEK titanium composite spacer system

The Construx mini PEEK titanium composite spacer system, from Orthofix, has been launched onto the market.

Life Spine begins limited release of lateral solution systems

As part of a limited release, Life Spine has launched its Centric lateral Retractor and Plateau-X lateral spacer systems onto the market.

Alphatec Spine receives FDA 510(K) market clearance for two new products

Alphatec Spine has announced it has received FDA 510(K) market clearance for two new products and also Shonin approval in Japan to market and sell three lines of its novel PEEK spinal spacers

Mazor Robotics announces Foundation Surgical Hospital of San Antonio has purchased...

Foundation Surgical Hospital of San Antonio, Texas, USA purchase of Mazor Robotics' Renaissance system marks the 20th installation of the system in the USA

Biba Medical says thank-you to our readers

Announcing the winner of our recent reader surveys, Biba Medical says thank-you to everyone who participated in the surveys.

Lanx launches patient education website on minimally invasive spinal fusion

minimallyinvasivespinefusion.com is a resource for patients on back and leg pain and less invasive surgical options.

FDA 510(k) clearance for the Mini-Max Minimally Invasive Access System, Precision...

Precision Spine has received 510(k) clearance from the FDA the Mini-Max Minimally Invasive Access System for spine surgeons.

NuVasive spinal implants for posterior spine fusion procedures cleared for use...

Double approval of spinal titanium alloy implants allows better access for Japanese surgeons to NuVasive products.

Two-year outcomes of patients treated with iFuse Implant System for degenerative...

Si-Bone's minimally invasive surgical device is safe and effective in the treatment of sacroiliac joint disruptions or degenerative sacroiliitis study says

Smoking cessation programmes are useful for patients with painful spinal disorders

Caleb Behrend, Rochester, USA, and others reported in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (American volume) that, as smoking cessation is strongly associated with an improvement in patient-reported pain, there is a need for smoking cessation programmes for patients with painful spinal disorders.

Administrative data sets may overestimate the rate of readmission following spinal...

According to a study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine, administrative data sets "the current method of calculating readmission rates "may overestimate the rate and cost of readmission following spinal surgery.

Max Reinhardt: new worldwide president of Depuy Synthes Spine

Reinhardt has been with the company since 2002, most recently as vice president of worldwide marketing.

Precision Spectra Spinal Cord Stimulator System gets the CE mark

By providing 32 contacts and four lead ports "twice that of any other spinal cord stimulation system "the Precision Spectra System (Boston Scientific) offers more coverage of the spinal cord for the management of chronic pain.

Medtronic launches Cervical FacetLiftSM ID/S surgical technique

The Cervical FaceLiftSM ID/S technique is an innovative procedure that indirectly decompresses the neural foramen and stabilises the cervical spine.

Surgery for spinal metastases may indirectly prolong survival

Researchers from South Korea have found that surgery for the management of metastatic spinal cord compression could be used as an indirect strategy to prolong survival because the functional improvement seen with surgery may increase a patient's chance of receiving postoperative adjuvant therapy, which in turn may prolong survival.

Mizuho Osi opens London showroom

Mizuho OSI opens its first faculty outside of the USA.

Multilevel fusion has similar outcomes to single-level fusion but increases operating...

A study published in Spine has shown that multilevel decompression and multilevel fusion does not significantly improve outcomes compared with multilevel decompression and single-level fusion in patients with single-level degenerative spondylolisthesis and multilevel spinal stenosis, but does increase operating time and intraoperative blood loss.

Spinal Elements launches nationwide “Pledge to be a Hero” programme

The "Pledge to Be a Hero" programme offers surgeons and hospitals the opportunity to pledge to use only allograft tissue, normally used in fusion procedures, from companies that do not profit from the transfer of that tissue whenever clinically feasible.

Siemens introduces Cios Alpha, a C-arm used in trauma surgery and...

According to the company, this new C-arm offers greater power output and a larger field of view in the operating room than conventional C-arms.

Testing pain killers on humans may be cost effective and speed...

Deliberately inflicting carefully controlled painful stimuli on human volunteers and seeing how well specific drugs reduce the feeling of pain can be an effective way of testing new drugs, according to a new literature review study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology.

The prevention and management of surgical site infections

NS Harshavardhana and Hilali Noordeen, Spinal Deformity Unit, Department of Spinal Surgery, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, Stanmore, UK, review the prevention and management of surgical site infections, the most common type of nosocomial infections acquired after surgery.

“If you really want to mess things up, pick the wrong...

Ciaran Bolger, Department of Neurosurgery, Beaumont Clinic, Dublin, Ireland, discussed the causes of complications following spinal surgery at the Brussels International Spine Symposium (9-10 November, Brussels, Belgium).

2,000 NuNec Cervical Disc Arthroplasty devices implanted in EMEA markets

NuNec is indicated for skeletally mature patients with cervical degenerative disc disease who need reconstruction of discs from C3-C7.

LDR receives approvable letter from FDA for two-level Mobi-C Cervical Disc

Mobi-C is the first cervical disc to receive an approvable letter for two-level use in the United States following a 600 patient concurrent investigational device exemption clinical trial for one and two-level cervical disc replacement.

Alphatec Spine completes asset acquisition of Phygen

"Phygen has over 100 active spine surgeons, many of whom have been directly involved in developing new innovations and product enhancements that have enabled Phygen to establish a broad and unique line of spinal implant solutions," said Tom Gardner, CEO, Phygen.

FDA clears the Fortex CoCr Rod System and the Certex Cervico-thoracic...

The Fortex CoCr system incorporates a new cobalt chromium fixation rod which allows for increased construct strength, stiffness and shape-holding during thoracic and lumbar procedures. The Certex system is used in cervical stabilisation procedures.

NICE releases draft guidance recommending vertebroplasty and balloon kyphoplasty for fractured...

The UK's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has opened a consultation on draft guidance which provisionally recommends the use of vertebroplasty and balloon kyphoplasty for fractured bones in the spine caused by osteoporosis.

DePuy Synthes Spine launches first access system for minimally invasive posterior-lateral...

At NASS, DePuy Synthes Spine launched its Spotlight PL Access system for minimally invasive posterior-lateral fusion

Epidural steroidal injections may increase the risk of vertebral fractures

At NASS 2012, Shlomo Mandel, Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, Bloomfield Hills, USA, stated that epidural steroidal injections are associated with an increased risk of vertebral fractures.

Long-term data shows that non-operative treatment may be better than operative...

A study presented by Kirkham Wood at the annual meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS, 23-27 October, Dallas, USA), indicated that after 15-20 years of follow-up, non-operative treatment for stable thoracolumbar burst fractures is associated with reduced pain and improved function compared with operative treatment.

Multiple failed previous surgeries should not be a barrier to further...

According to a study presented at NASS, revision surgery in selected adult patients with spinal deformity is associated with a good outcome and an acceptable rate of complications.

Clinical studies on LDR’s Mobi-C cervical disc presented at NASS

Several studies involving the Mobi-C cervical disc were presented at NASS, including a study that found two-level arthroplasty, using the Mobi-C, was associated with improvements in pain and function and a reduction in revision rates compared with two-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

FDA approves VisuALIF Challenging Access Plate

VisuALIF's open access allows a physician to visualise the disc space for in-situ implant preparation, prepare for optimal end plate contact and maximise a large volume of graft.

Treatment to tackle ‘skeletal-related events’ in some cancer patients gets green...

The UK's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) published new guidance which commits the NHS to funding the drug denosumab (Xgeva, Amgen) for cancer patients whose disease has spread from most solid tumour sites (e.g. breast, lung, liver) to their bones.

US Senate Finance Committee members reveal investigation into Medtronic “manipulated studies”...

On 25 October, at the time when NASS was taking place, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus and senior member Chuck Grassley released the results of their 16-month investigation into Medtronic, which revealed questionable ties between the company and the physician consultants tasked with testing and reviewing the bone-growth product InFuse.

Medtronic introduces Olif25 procedure for minimally invasive spinal fusion at NASS

The Olif25 procedure allows for psoas preserving access to the L2-L5 levels in spinal fusion procedures.

Medtronic introduces Anchor FS Facet Fixation System at NASS

According to a company release, the Anchor FS Facet Fixation System is intended to provide spine stability by fixation through the facet joints, with or without bone graft.

Medtronic launches Catalyst mobile educational centres for spinal surgeons

The Catalyst centres are high-tech vehicles equipped with procedural/anatomical labs and conference areas designed to train surgeons and other health care professionals across the United States.

Renaissance guidance system for spine procedures to be introduced in Japan

Mazor Robotics has announced that Adachi Medical Instruments, Mazor's distribution partner in Japan, placed an order for its Renaissance system. As part of the distribution agreement, Adachi is committed to obtain Japanese approval for the Renaissance system.

Spinal Elements announces special events and interactive exhibit at NASS 2012

Spinal Elements' exhibit will feature several interactive presentations on its recently introduced products Hero and Ti-Bond. The company will also offer live product development sessions demonstrating the creation of innovative products from spinal surgeons input.

New Solvay study affirms compatibility of medical-grade polymers with Sterrad sterilisation

The findings reveal that Solvay's Radel polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), Udel polysulfone (PSU), AvaSpire polyaryletherketone (PAEK), and KetaSpire polyetheretherketone (PEEK) retain excellent mechanical performance and stable appearance properties after 200 cycles of the Sterrad 100NX standard cycle.

Managing spinal conditions in the obese patient

Michael Zindrick, Hinsdale Orthopaedics, Hinsdale, USA, talked to Spinal News International about the effect of obesity on the spine and how obese patients who have spinal conditions should be managed.

Canadia C-Spine rule may have better diagnostic accuracy than NEXUS criteria...

Zoe Michaleff, Sydney, Australia, and others have found that the Canadian Cervical Spine (C-Spine) rule for assessing the need of imaging following blunt trauma to the cervical spine may have better diagnostic accuracy than the National Emergency X-Radiography Utilization Study (NEXUS) criteria.

Paediatric patients have abnormally elevated levels of titanium and niobium after...

Thomas Cundy and colleagues have found that paediatric patients have abnormally elevated serum titanium and niobium levels up to 12 months after receiving titanium-based implants.

Hensler Surgical Products to exhibit the Hensler Bone Press at NASS

Hensler Surgical Products will launch the Hensler Bone Press at the annual meeting of the North American Spine Society's Annual Meeting (NASS; 24-October 2012, Dallas, USA)

Vidacare Corporation introduces new accessory tray for access and biopsy of...

After it received an expanded FDA indication for its OnControl System to allow for bone biopsy of the vertebral body and bone lesions, Vidacare Corporation has developed a new extension to its technology platform

Secure-C Cervical Artificial Disc receives FDA premarket approval

The approval of Secure-C (Globus Medical) was supported with clinical data from a 380 patient investigational device exemption study which demonstrate the device is statistically superior to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) in terms of overall success, subsequent surgery at the index level, device-related adverse events, and patient satisfaction at 24 months.

Baxano’s iO-Tome device receives FDA clearance

FDA has given Baxano clearance to market its iO-Tome device for use in spinal fusion applications.

Medtronic launches Bryan Cervical Disc with ACD Instrument Set

Medtronic has initiated the commercial introduction in the United States of the ACD Instrument Set, a brand new set of instruments that can be used to insert the clinically proven Bryan Cervical Disc.

Michael Heggeness

Michael Heggeness, 2011-2012 president of the North American Spine Society (NASS), talked to Spinal News International about the highlights of his career, his current research in tissue engineering of bone and the key themes for this year's NASS meeting.

Is bracing for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis still beneficial?

The role of bracing for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis remains controversial, not because of the alternative effective measures to alter the natural history of the condition, but because of a lack of level one evidence in favour of bracing. Keith Luk and Oliver Stokes review the issues.

Spinal Elements to launch Hero Allograft

Hero consists of various configurations of human allograft tissue including demineralised bone matrix (DBM) in paste or putty form, compressible cancellous blocks and strips, and structural grafts.

Transgenomic completes acquisition of ScoliScore Prognostic Scoliosis Test

ScoliScore is the first clinically validated and commercially available saliva-based multi-gene test that provides a highly accurate assessment of the likelihood of spinal curve progression for individuals diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Medtronic to acquire China Kanghui Holdings

Kanghui brings a strong product portfolio and new product pipeline in trauma, spine and joint reconstruction.

Aspen Fusion System shows positive results in lumbar fusion

Results were presented by Amir Vokshoor, Institute of Neurosurgical Innovation, Marina del Rey, California, USA, at the Western Neurosurgical Society annual meeting (Colorado Springs, USA, September 7-10).

Baxter appoints two new directors to its board

Baxter International has appointed Uma Chowdhry and Thomas F Chen to its board of directors; the positions are effective from November

FDA clears eSPIN discectomy system

The already CE-marked eSPIN is intended for use in cutting and grinding intervertebral disc material during discectomy for fusion procedures in L2─S1 spinal segments in skeletally mature patients with degenerative disc disease.

DFine announces full commercial distribution of the Star Tumor Ablation System...

The Star Tumor Ablation System is used in the palliative treatment of metastatic spinal tumours, combining controlled access to the vertebral body with controlled percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (t-RFA) energy delivery.

K2M receives paediatric FDA clearance for Mesa and Rail 4D spinal...

The Mesa and Rail 4D spinal systems are designed to treat adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.