From NASS: “Illuminating” Instrument Technology

Invuity, a developer illuminated surgical technology, debuted a new line of surgical devices intended to provide surgeons enhanced visibility during spinal surgeries. The products were unveiled at the North American Spine Society’s annual meeting in Chicago, Ill.

The instruments integrate Invuity’s Eigr technology, improving visualization by bringing illumination inside the incision. The line features Eigr Saber, a single-use, low-profile, ergonomic, hand-held device with integrated suction. The Saber is used for spinal and orthopedic procedures such as cervical and lumbar cases, hip arthroplasty, bone tumor resection and foot and ankle fusions.

“Eigr technology significantly improves the quality of illumination and enables me to better identify and visualize even in and around neural elements of the spine,” said Dr. Michael J. Gratch, an orthopedic surgeon in Abington, Pa. “I believe the technology has helped me be even more precise in my work.”

At least 600,000 Americans have back surgery every year. Surgeons have a critical need for improved visualization, particularly in spinal procedures, which enables easy identification of anatomical structures.

“As smaller incisions become standard of care in less invasive and minimally invasive surgeries, visibility into a surgical field is an increasing challenge,” said Alex Vayser, co-founder and chief technology officer of Invuity. “Invuity’s Eigr technology integrates uniform lighting directly into existing surgical devices, which allows for improved visual access to deep areas, small openings and under flaps—where surgeons tell us they need it the most.”

The company also recently introduced a line of Taylor retractor systems for less-invasive posterior lumbar decompressions and discectomy procedures.
Invuity also markets an Illuminated McCulloch Retractor system. Integrated with Eigr technology, the Illuminated McCulloch Retractor is designed to optimize access and visualization for traditional and less invasive approaches to the posterior lumbar spine.

Last year, Invuity closed $15.6 million Series C funding designed to support the commercial launch of new product introductions and general operating expenses. The company’s products are 510(k) cleared and “many” are CE marked, according to company officials. Invuity is located in San Francisco, Calif.