The Back Way In

Medtronic Inc. has developed a set of implants and instruments that enables doctors to back into spinal surgeries – literally.

The VERTEXSELECT Reconstruction System is designed specifically for posterior approaches to spinal fusion procedures. The company announced the U.S. launch of the product on Wednesday.

The product’s launch comes nearly a year after Medtronic unveiled a similar system for the neck and base of the skull. The VERTEXSELECT Occipitocervical Module features implants and instruments that enable surgeons to fuse the base of the skull and neck from the back of the spine.

The VERTEX SELECT System can be used to treat patients with degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, fractures, dislocations, tumors and fusions that have previously failed, the company said.