Additive manufacturing spinal implants

Austin, Texas – LDR Holding Corp., a global medical device company focused on designing and commercializing novel and proprietary surgical technologies for the treatment of patients suffering from spine disorders, announced that, through its wholly-owned subsidiary LDR Médical, SAS, it has made a minority investment in Poly-Shape, SAS, a French manufacturing company specializing in laser sintering, and entered into an exclusive partnership with Poly-Shape for the development of spinal implants. The agreement combines LDR's spinal expertise and innovative approach to implant design with Poly-Shape's proprietary, additive manufacturing methods.

Christophe Lavigne, president and CEO of LDR, notes, "As a company with a passion for innovation, LDR is very pleased with this alliance. Poly-Shape has developed a reputation for its novel manufacturing techniques, and for the production of parts that meet the rigorous quality and functional standards of its clients, which include Formula One race teams and companies developing aerospace applications. Access to this experience and capability supports our philosophy of utilizing cutting-edge technology to bring high-quality spinal implants and instruments to our surgeon customers and their patients. The collaboration will help us continue to develop and deliver best-in-class products for Minimal Implant Volume (MIVo) spinal surgery."

Stéphane Abed, co-founder and CEO of Poly-Shape, added, "Poly-Shape is excited to partner with LDR and to leverage our additive manufacturing expertise, proven in aerospace and racing, to produce novel spinal implants that will benefit patients and physicians. I believe LDR is an ideal partner for Poly-Shape in that we share a similar philosophy based on innovation that provides true, measurable benefits. Our co-development will result in spinal implants with more complex geometries and unique features which are free from the limits that may be associated with conventional manufacturing methods."

The agreement was signed in the fourth quarter of 2015, and included additional investment by ALIAD, the venture capital affiliate of Air Liquide, a world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and health. LDR will hold a seat on the Poly-Shape Board of Directors. Initial projects have already been initiated with the expectation to launch newly designed spinal implants produced with Poly-Shape technology as early as mid-2017.

The financial terms of the investment and agreement were not disclosed.

Source: LDR Holding Corp.

Formula One is a trade mark of Formula One Licensing B.V.  None of the Formula One group of companies is affiliated with, or endorses, sponsors, or supports Poly-Shape or LDR or their respective products or services.