Alphatec Spine has launched its Battalion Lateral System with the Alphatec Squadron lateral retractor. It is expected to compete in the $500M U.S. lateral market.

The Battalion Lateral System with the Alphatec Squadron lateral retractor gives surgeons a next-generation lateral system that has functionality designed to improve clinical outcomes, according to the company. It reduces tissue creep, psoas reaction time and allows surgeons to achieve alignment and fusion goals.

The Squadron lateral retractor also gives surgeons the option to customize access to match a patient’s unique anatomy through independent retraction of the cranial/caudal blades. The DepthControl technology gives them in-situ height adjustment for low-profile blades and the LevelTow mechanics make sure that blades stay parallel when toed up to 15 degrees. It can be used with most neuromonitoring platforms for safe access through the psoas.

The Battalion lateral spacer is available in 0 degrees and 15 degrees lordosis and a wide range of width and height options. It can be used in lumbar and thoracic approaches and angled and offset instrumentation, giving surgeons access to the L4/L5 segment.

“Alphatec’s Battalion lateral system provides great options for accessing and preparing the space via the retractor, but the retractor itself completes the procedure,” said Dr. Frank K. Kuwamura, a board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon and one of the first surgeons to use the system, in a press release. “The ability to independently raise and lower blades to accommodate the anatomy really separates this retractor from other retractors available on the market. It saves time in the psoas and that supports better patient outcomes.”

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