From spine robots to imaging systems and an artificial disc, here are four key spine systems cleared by the FDA in the past four months:
NuVasive's Simplify Disc, a cervical artificial disc, was approved for two-level total disc replacement in April. The company obtained the device through its $150 million acquisition of Simplify Medical. The device is one of three artificial discs approved for two-level cervical total disc replacement.
In February, the FDA approved two Brainlab surgical robots: the Loop X Mobile Imaging Robot and Cirq, a robotic surgical system for the spine. Brainlab said the Loop-X is the first fully robotic intraoperative imaging device on the market, while the Cirq robotic alignment module assists surgeons during spine procedures.
The FDA provided clearance for Medtronic's Midas Rex high-speed drills in December. The drills, integrated with the Mazor spine robot, are designed to improve precision, disc-prep access and navigation, according to the company.