DePuy Spine, Inc. today announced the launch of the VIPER® F2
Transfacet Pedicular System (VIPER F2), a transfacet pedicular screw and
polyaxial ring system designed to provide stabilization and fixation during
degenerative lumbar spinal fusion procedures.
The announcement was made here at the 80th Annual Scientific
Meeting of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) where DePuy
Spine is showcasing its portfolio of minimally invasive and traditional
surgical instruments and implants for the treatment of a wide range of spinal
pathologies and conditions.
“We have a simple, elegant, minimally invasive solution
for posterior fixation,” said Richard Fessler, MD, PhD, Professor,
Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of
Medicine.*
Biomechanical testing showed no significant differences in
fixation or stability between VIPER F2 and conventional pedicle screws(1) when
used to augment lateral interbody fusion. According to the American Academy
of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), about 300,000 Americans have spinal fusion
surgery each year.(2)
VIPER F2 consists of large diameter lag screws and fully
functional polyaxial rings that help spine surgeons achieve rigid fixation and
compression of facet joints, the joints that link vertebrae together and give
the spine its flexibility. The screws are inserted bilaterally through the
superior side of the facet, across the facet joint and into the inferior
pedicle. Polyaxial rings are available to increase the load bearing area of the
screw that is in contact with the bone. The VIPER F2 may be used in either
traditional or minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery.
“DePuy Spine is committed to delivering data-driven,
innovative and intuitive devices that help streamline procedures and foster
procedural efficiency,” said Namal Nawana, Worldwide President, DePuy
Spine. “VIPER F2 is the latest example of this commitment to surgeons, patients
and the health care system.”
About DePuy Spine
DePuy Spine, Inc. has worked with leading clinicians, researchers, and thought
leaders to develop products to treat spine disorders for over 20 years. It is
part of the DePuy Family of Companies within Johnson & Johnson, and has a
rich heritage of pioneering a broad range of products and solutions across the
continuum of orthopaedic and neurological care. These companies are unified
under one vision – Never Stop Moving® – to express their commitment to bring
meaningful innovation, shared knowledge and quality care to patients throughout
the world.
* Design consultant to DePuy Spine, Inc.
(1) Data on file with DePuy Spine, Inc.
(2) The Burden of Musculoskeletal Diseases in the United States.
(2008). Retrieved from: http://www.boneandjointburden.org/pdfs/bmus_executive_summary_low.pdf