LinkSPINE: First U.S. Implantation of FacetLINK MINI

First in U.S.! LinkSPINE is announcing the first U.S. implantation of the FacetLINK MINI, a titanium device that uses two screws and an expandable cross-connector assembly to stabilize the lumbar spine after a tissue-sparing midline decompression.

Dhruv Pateder, M.D., an orthopedic spinal surgeon, performed the first U.S. MINI case at HCA Reston Hospital Center in Reston, Virginia. Dr. Pateder commented in the August 4, 2015 news release, “Using a minimally invasive technique, FacetLINK MINI allows rigid posterior spinal column fixation with only two cross-linked lag screws instead of a traditional, open pedicle screw and rod construct where four screws are needed. The FacetLINK MINI device is quickly and efficiently placed utilizing a very intuitive surgical technique. The patient is doing great and was discharged the next day.”

LinkSPINE President Massimo Calafiore stated, “FacetLINK MINI fits within the bounds of a midline decompression exposure, requiring no additional dissection beyond what was planned for the decompression itself. This is based upon the medial to lateral screw trajectories which anchor the devices to the bone, and the need for just two screws to complete a one level construct.”

As indicated in the news release, “The Facet-Link Stabilization Platform is intended to stabilize the spine as an aid to fusion through immobilization of the facet joints. The system is indicated for use with bone graft, at single or multiple levels, from L3 to S1 (inclusive). The Platform is indicated for the treatment of spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease as defined as back pain of discogenic origin as confirmed by radiographic studies, and degeneration of the facets with instability.”

Dr. Pateder told OTW, “I like the FacetLINK MINI device because it allows a posterior decompression and instrumented fusion (with posterior interbody fusion) without dissecting lateral to the facet joints. In my experience, this causes less post-operative pain and allows me to perform some of these cases in an ambulatory setting.”

Calafiore told OTW, “FacetLINK forms the foundation of LinkSPINE’s ‘Midline Choice’ implant platform. Additional products are under development which will integrate with FacetLINK to provide intra-operative flexibility to choose a less invasive stabilization construct based upon patient pathology, anatomy, and surgeon preference. We will continue to focus upon patient outcomes and surgeon feedback to guide our product development efforts.”