Instrument Finds Path For Pedicle Screw Implantation

San Diego, CA — NuVasive, Inc. announced today the launch of the Insulated Pedicle Access System, or I-PAS, a surgical instrument used to determine the safe percutaneous approach pathway of a pedicle screw prior to its implantation.

I-PAS is designed to be used in conjunction with the Company's NeuroVision® nerve avoidance software to dynamically test the percutaneous approach of a pedicle screw prior to its implantation into the vertebral body. Performing a dynamic test provides the surgeon with constant feedback about the proximity of surrounding nerves in the screw's pathway, allowing its safe approach into the vertebral body and avoiding a potential breach of the pedicle wall. Once safely in the pedicle, a guide wire is placed through the needle to allow a subsequent implant, such as the Company's SpheRx™ DBR™, to pass safely over the guide wire into the pedicle. This is the first percutaneous and dynamic neurophysiologic system on the market to continuously monitor and alleviate the risk of neurological injury. This added detection offered by I-PAS also allows for less fluoroscopy during the surgery, which is beneficial to both surgeon and patient.

Alexis V. Lukianov, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "The ability to dynamically test for surrounding nerves from the spinal access needle prior to screw placement is a feature unique to our percutaneous I-PAS Insulated Pedicle Access System. We believe I-PAS provides surgeons with a substantial tool to increase the safety of the procedure while adding intra-operative efficiency. The launch of I-PAS is consistent with our vertical integration strategy of providing products that increase penetration of our MAS™ platform among spine surgeons. This is the fourth new product launch in 2005 and we remain on track with our planned nine total product launches for 2005."

SOURCE: NuVasive