Here are four key updates in spine device surface technology.
1. Alphatec commercially launched its IdentiTi-PC Porous Titanium Interbody Implant System for transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion procedures. This is the third of six IdentiTi implant systems the company is planning to commercially launch in 2019.
2. Camber Spine has reported surgeons have used its Spira spinal implant platform products to perform spine surgery at over 2,000 levels. Spira combines 3D-printed arches and spirals for distribution of load with Surface by Design, the company's surface for stimulating bone growth.
3. The University of Arizona College of Medicine in Tucson has achieved success in researching 3D printed scaffolds embedded with calcium and stem cells to treat bone injuries. UACM received a $2 million, five-year grant from the U.S. Department of Defense for the research in January.
4. Researchers in Germany tested whether 3D printing can improve scaffolds in bone remodeling and regeneration following trauma. They conducted CT scans to produce a 3D model of bones affected from trauma and 3D printed a scaffold which can be surgically implanted into the bones.