Alphatec Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq:ATEC), the parent company of Alphatec
Spine, Inc., a medical device company that designs, develops,
manufactures and markets products for the surgical treatment of spine
disorders, with a focus on treating conditions related to the aging
spine, introduced the ARC Portal Access System in conjunction with the
introduction of the minimally invasive GLIF (Guided Lateral Interbody
Fusion) technique during the AANS (American Association of Neurological
Surgeons) annual meeting in San Diego, CA.
The revolutionary GLIF technique and ARC Portal Access System is
designed to allow surgeons to perform lumbar interbody fusion procedures
with the opportunity for less intra-operative blood loss and minimized
tissue disruption; while decreasing the recovery time for most patients.
The proprietary ARC Portal Access System and instrumentation has been
designed specifically for the GLIF technique, providing lateral access
with direct visualization to the intervertebral disc space while
allowing the patient to remain in a prone position. When augmented with
posterior pedicle fixation, the ARC system eliminates the need to
reposition the patient intra-operatively, thereby reducing the overall
length of the lateral lumbar fusion procedure and potentially reducing
operating room costs.
Dirk Kuyper, President and CEO of Alphatec Spine said, “We believe the
GLIF technique significantly advances the direct lateral approach in the
form of a less-invasive and more-efficient lateral interbody fusion
technique. We have developed something extremely unique that addresses a
true need within the surgeon community and marketplace. The introduction
of the GLIF technique and the ARC access system further strengthens our
product offering and opportunity to participate in the growing minimally
invasive market.”
In 2009, the U.S. market for minimally invasive interbody fusion devices
is estimated to exceed $200 million.
The Company intends to commence a limited market release of the ARC
system in the second quarter of 2009.
About Alphatec Spine
Alphatec Spine, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alphatec Holdings,
Inc. (Nasdaq:ATEC). Alphatec Spine is a medical device company that
designs, develops, manufactures and markets products for the surgical
treatment of spine disorders, primarily focused on disorders affecting
the aging spine. The Company's mission is to combine world-class
customer service with innovative, surgeon-driven design that will help
improve the aging patient's quality of life.
