NuVasive's Pulse integrated spine surgery system launched in summer 2021, with the first commercial cases performed in July in Ohio and Texas.
Ten details on the technology and what lies ahead:
1. Pulse is an integrated platform designed to improve safety and efficiency in spine surgery. The technology touts a seamless workflow, allowing surgeons to use multiple technologies in a single procedure, and can help "deliver improved operational, financial and clinical outcomes," CEO Chris Barry said during the company's Feb. 23 earnings call.
2. The device is a single unit of capital equipment that incorporates two fixed screens, wireless device connectivity and several software technologies. Pulse's reduced footprint in the operating room provides increased efficiency for surgeons and staff, according to NuVasive.
3. Pulse achieved a CE mark from the European Union in June and secured its first European commercial contracts in the first quarter of 2022.
4. Initial testing has shown that Pulse's navigation accuracy error rates are significantly lower than other navigation systems on the market, the spine company said.
5. Providers can add future surgical applications from NuVasive and third-party partners that will integrate with the Pulse system.
6. A software update for the device is set to launch in the second quarter. It will include further integration with Siemens Healthineers Cios Spin 3D mobile C-arm and additional capabilities to improve remote system upgrades.
7. NuVasive's 2021 revenue was $1.1 billion, with fourth-quarter revenue hitting $302.1 million, a 3.5 percent increase year over year. Net sales were primarily driven by Pulse and the C360 portfolio, which includes the Simplify cervical disc.
8. Most of the providers that have implemented Pulse so far have been existing NuVasive customers, but Mr. Barry sees that progressing to "a mix of both existing and new customers" as the technology evolves in the coming quarters.
9. In September, NuVasive opened its East Coast Experience Center in New York City. The facility includes educational training rooms and a dedicated site to demonstrate its Pulse platform.
10. NuVasive said it will continue to invest in the Pulse platform, Pulse robotics and its core spine portfolio. Its goal for Pulse is to have it be used in 100 percent of spine cases. NuVasive said it is developing financial models that will benefit the company and its customers.
Editor's note: This article was updated March 10 at 10:55 a.m. CT.