Stryker iVAS/Stryker Corporation
Stryker Launches Kyphoplasty
Stryker is taking on Medtronic in the kyphoplasty business.On April 13, Stryker's Interventional Spine unit announced the release of the iVAS inflatable vertebral augmentation system. The device is cleared for use in treating vertebral compression fractures (VCFs).
A company announcement stated that with the introduction of iVAS, "physicians now have a single source for VCF solutions. The device is part of a portfolio of mixer and delivery systems, bone cements and needles for both vertebral augmentation (also known as balloon kyphoplasty) and vertebroplasty, widely used to treat the intense pain caused by VCFs."
This follows on the heels of San Diego-based CareFusion's release on March 15 of their own kyphoplasty device, the "AVAmax."
Why?
Why would Stryker release a kyphoplasty device when spine societies have told CMS that the more expensive procedure does not offer additional benefits over the cheaper vertebroplasty?David Veino, Director of Sales and Marketing for Stryker Interventional Spine, offered a glimpse to that answer.
“Every spine is unique and every fracture is different, that’s why we’ve invested in developing the largest, most complete portfolio of products for treating VCFs. Stryker offers solutions for both vertebral augmentation and vertebroplasty procedures, giving physicians the flexibility to customize their treatment approach based on the type of compression fracture and patient anatomy.”Veino went on to explain that Stryker’s ability to be a single source of VCF solutions “allows physicians to form a cost-efficient partnership with a single vendor, potentially saving them time and money.”
Stryker Kypho Features
The company cites five key features, which, "help promote enhanced procedure efficiency and outcomes":- The stiff distal balloon catheter provides rigidity for smooth insertion
- A flexible proximal catheter allows for easy maneuverability
- The radiopaque markers on the balloon catheter help facilitate accurate visualization and placement of the balloon
- The hand drill cuts cleanly through cancellous bone to create a channel for balloon placement
- Graduation markings on the access cannula assist in measuring needle depth
Room for Competition
There's plenty of room for competition as Medtronic has a reported 95% market share for kyphoplasty procedures. In fact, CareFusion is suing Medtronic for trying to monopolize the marketplace. We will have a feature story on that lawsuit.Fuente: Orthopedics this week.
