Trinity Orthopedics Buys Patents from Expanding Concepts LLC

Trinity Orthopedics, a spine technology company, has acquired the patent portfolio of Expanding Concepts LLC in Portland, Ore. According to Trinity, the move is an “essential step” in completing the development of an expandable interbody technology. Expanding Concepts hold a patent for a collapsible and expandable interbody fusion cage.

The U.S. market for spinal implants expect growth in the interbody fusion market to remain in the low single digits through 2019. The sub-segment of expandable devices will see compound annual growth rates approaching 30 percent, according to figures cited by Trinity Orthopedics. The expansion in demand is largely attributed to the benefits of minimizing complications due to larger surgical sites and “over distraction of involved nerves,” the company reported.

In addition, time in the operating room and reducing postoperative pain for patients are sited as major contributors.

James F. Marino, M.D., CEO and founder of San Diego, Calif.-based Trinity Orthopedics said: “We believe we have a very strong proprietary position in this area of intense industry interest.” Marino was a founder of NuVasive Inc.

Trinity Orthopedics makes products to reduce the complications associated spine surgery. Products include the ReStor posterior fixation system and the Corex minimally invasive autograft bone harvester.