China-based Weigao Orthopaedic Device is now offering a spinal stabilization system called "Tulip" for semi-rigid rods made from PEEK-OPTIMA to bridge the gap between rigid and dynamic systems.
"Throughout the product development and clinical adoption of our PEEK-OPTIMA semi-rigid rods Invibio was a great help to our company," said Mr. Kui Yang, vice general manager of sales at Weigao Orthopaedic Device. "This includes technical support and testing during the R&D phase. Invibio invited for example, overseas clinical experts to China to exchange experience in PEEK-OPTIMA based semi-rigid-rod techniques."
Here are five things to know:
1. The system is indicated for surgery at one- to three-levels including the lumbosacral region, require posterior pedicle-screw fixation or when fusion surgery is required for a segment of the spine where a degenerative disc disease is present.
2. There are two types of domestic manufactured rods available: 6.35mm-diameter round rod and a 6.35x7.2mm-diameter oval rod.
3. The Tulip system received approval from the China Food and Drug Administration in 2014.
4. The company targets China's Tier-One market for spinal devices as well as Class-Two and Class-Three hospitals nationally.
5. PEEK-OPTMIA is currently used in more than 5 million implanted devices worldwide and has a 15-year history of clinical application.