Medtronic launches new bone cement
Medtronic, Inc., recently launched a new type of bone cement in the United States for use in the treatment of patients with vertebral compression fractures who are undergoing Kyphon balloon kyphoplasty. Kyphon ActivOs 10 Bone Cement contains hydroxyapatite, which is chemically and structurally similar to the mineral component of bone. According to the manufacturer, in an animal trial of the substance, new bone formed on the surface of the cement without an intervening fibrous tissue layer, and no inflammatory foreign body reaction was observed, suggesting that the surface of the cement is compatible with bone.

For more information, visit www.kyphon.com or www.medtronic.com

FDA clears Intego for use in bone cancer imaging
Medrad, Inc., has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market the Medrad Intego Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Infusion System for sodium fluoride (F18-NaF) administration in PET imaging. F18-NaF PET is most frequently used to find and assess bone metastases. Due to its rapid uptake in the bone and quick bone clearance, the clinical evidence indicates that F18-NaF has value as a diagnostic imaging agent in bone cancer imaging. PET technology provides high resolution images that may be quantified for detailed and comparative analysis.

For more information, visit www.medrad.com

Wright Medical introduces ankle fusion system
The newly launched Valor® Hindfoot Fusion Nail from Wright Medical Group, Inc., is an ankle joint fusion product used to treat skeletal deformity, late-stage arthritis, or complications resulting from diabetes (neuro-osteoarthropathy). Available in an array of sizes and anatomic screw positions, the Valor® Nail is designed to provide optimal fixation for each patient’s unique anatomy and condition. An internal compression device incorporated into each nail allows the surgeon to control the compression between bone surfaces, thereby optimizing the conditions for fusion to occur.

For more information, visit www.wmt.com

Knee contracture device promotes full flexion recovery
The Knee Crank II from AliMed is designed to facilitate full flexion recovery for patients after knee contracture surgery. The device offers a full range of contracture control that is dynamically loaded by adjustable straps to stretch the contracted knee. Because pressure can be applied to tolerable levels and released as required, the Knee Crank II can provide a high degree of comfort while applying the remedial action. The Knee Crank II is not an ambulatory device; it is designed for use by patients while they are in a supine position.

For more information, visit www.alimed.com

New Omnispan system for meniscal repair
The Omnispan™ Meniscal Repair System from DePuy Mitek, Inc., is designed for all-inside arthroscopic repairs of meniscus tears. The system includes a disposable applier and needles available in three angle options for repair in horizontal, vertical, or oblique configurations. The applier’s active deployment allows surgeons to accurately release backstops, according to DePuy Mitek. Instead of plunging to the back of the meniscus to deploy, Omnispan barely penetrates the back of the meniscus, minimizing needle exposure.

Made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and PDS™ (Polydioxanone), the Orthocord proprietary suture is said to minimize tissue abrasion, and the PDS component is resorbable, resulting in less suture mass on the meniscus surface over time. In addition, the suture knot is made in the backside of the meniscus to avoid contact with the femoral condyles.

For more information, visit www.depuy.com

New surgical drill features fingertip control
Designed for spinal, cranial, and orthopaedic surgical procedures, the new Midas Rex® Legend® EHS Stylus Touch™ high-speed electric drill from Medtronic, Inc., features integrated finger control. With its high torque and compact size, the drill is said to provide excellent balance and maneuverability in tight anatomic spaces. Surgeons can operate the drill using finger control, foot pedal control, or both.

The drill is powered by Medtronic’s Integrated Power Console (IPC®) system, a multispecialty surgical power console that includes an intuitive touch screen interface enabling surgeons to use saved custom settings, adjust irrigation via simple remote control, and run multiple Medtronic handpieces.

For more information, visit www.medtronic.com

Assay approved for use with cartilage repair product
Genzyme Corp. announced that the FDA has approved a chondrocyte identity assay for Carticel® (autologous cultured chondrocytes). This proprietary genetic assay distinguishes chondrocyte cells, found in articular cartilage, from other cell types. The assay is designed to provide treating surgeons and patients additional assurance that their Carticel implant is composed of positively identified chondrocyte cells.

Carticel is for autologous use and is indicated for the repair of symptomatic cartilage defects of the femoral condyle (medial, lateral, or trochlea)—caused by acute or repetitive trauma—in patients who have had an inadequate response to a prior arthroscopic or other surgical repair procedure (eg, débridement, microfracture, drilling/abrasion arthroplasty, or osteochondral allograft/autograft).

For information, visit www.genzyme.com

Smith & Nephew launches NPWT hotline for patients
Patients using the Renasys™ Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) System from Smith & Nephew now have access to a live and fully staffed NPWT clinical hotline. By dialing 1-866-998-NPWT (6798), patients can speak directly to support staff who can answer patient education and product questions about the system. The clinical hotline serves patients year-round, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Smith & Nephew NPWT customers and patients can also visit www.myrenasys.com to access information on device functionality and instructional videos on application techniques.

For more information about Smith & Nephew, visit www.smith-nephew.com