Dive Brief:
- NuVasive and Siemens announced Friday a technology partnership that aims to improve visualization of the anatomy during spine implant placement.
- The first step in the partnership will be to integrate NuVasive’s new Pulse surgical automation platform with Siemens Healthineers’ mobile 3D imaging for quality assurance during surgery.
- The companies said they will develop 3D imaging and navigation tools to help spine surgeons and neurosurgeons be more precise, faster and cost efficient in the operating room.
Dive Insight:
Makers of spinal fusion devices such as NuVasive are looking to differentiate themselves in a crowded market that has seen sluggish growth as insurers push back on reimbursement for the procedures. One way device makers are looking to stand out is through development of customized technology platforms for the operating room.
NuVasive’s Pulse platform gained FDA clearance in July. It integrates neuro-monitoring, surgical planning, radiation reduction and patient-specific rod bending technologies into a single device and adds 2D and 3D navigation and advanced imaging. The technology supports spine surgery at facilities ranging from major health systems to ambulatory centers.
The Pulse system uses multiple high-resolution cameras aimed at improving surgeons’ sight lines and workflow and includes advanced artificial intelligence to automate several technologies used in the procedure.
NuVasive competes with the likes of Medtronic, Johnson & Johnson, Stryker and Zimmer Biomet Holdings, as well as numerous smaller players, in the spinal fusion market. The San-Diego based company pioneered a less-invasive approach to the procedure in which surgeons reach the spine through a small incision on the patient’s side.
The Siemens mobile imaging system, called Cios Spin, is awaiting FDA clearance and is not yet commercially available in the United States. Siemens and NuVasive said they will feature their spine partnership at the North American Spine Society 2018 annual meeting Sept. 26-29 in Los Angeles.
