SAN ANTONIO, Texas – March 3, 2025 – Spinal Stabilization Technologies, LLC (SST) has announced a significant milestone in its mission to revolutionize spinal care: the enrollment of the first U.S. patient in its Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) clinical trial for the PerQdisc Nucleus Replacement Device (NRD). This event marks the beginning of SST’s U.S.-based trial to evaluate its PerQdisc system for patients suffering from degenerative disc disease (DDD).

“The reduction in pain and overall clinical outcomes observed with PerQdisc during the feasibility trials (over 40 patients treated) have been exceptional,” stated Dr. Pierce Nunley, Principal Investigator and Medical Director of the Spine Institute of Louisiana. “The procedure was notably straightforward, and the recovery period is anticipated to be brief. This technology holds the potential to revolutionize the treatment of patients suffering from discogenic low back pain, providing a straightforward, safe, and minimally invasive option that reduces pain and maintains mobility while restoring functionality.”

The IDE trial will assess the PerQdisc’s ability to replace the nucleus pulposus of a single lumbar disc (L1-L5) with the intent to preserve motion and alleviate pain. Currently, patients with painful lumbar DDD face limited surgical options, with many resorting to spinal fusion, which restricts motion and places increased stresses on adjacent spinal levels. SST’s PerQdisc is a breakthrough alternative that avoids fusion and leaves the surrounding anatomy intact.

To support the trial and accelerate its path toward regulatory approval, SST recently raised $17 million in funding from existing and new investors. This investment underscores confidence in SST’s technology and will be used to advance the IDE trial and further clinical development initiatives.

Spine Surgeon Frank Phillips, MD Joins Board of Spinal Stabilization Technologies 

SST is also pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Frank Phillips to its Board of Directors. Dr. Phillips is one of the world’s leading spine surgeons and has been the president of global spine societies. He has pioneered minimally invasive procedures, has over 200 spine-related publications and trained numerous spine surgeons. He holds patents in the spine space, has founded spine companies and served on the board of directors of public and private companies. “His expertise and leadership in the field of spinal surgery will be instrumental in guiding SST’s strategic direction and clinical adoption,” commented Mark Novotny, CEO of SST.

“This is an exciting time for SST as we expand our clinical research into the U.S. market,” said Novotny, “With strong clinical results, a highly experienced team, and the addition of Dr. Phillips to our Board, we are well-positioned to bring PerQdisc to patients in need of better treatment options.”