Depuy Spine’s Transfacet Pedicular Fixation System

DePuy Spine Inc. officials saw to the launch of the VIPER F2 Transfacet Pedicular System (VIPER F2), a transfacet pedicular screw and polyaxial ring system designed to provide stabilization and fixation during degenerative lumbar spinal fusion procedures. 

The announcement occurred at the 80th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) where DePuy Spine officials showcased the company’s portfolio of minimally invasive and traditional surgical instruments and implants for the treatment of a wide range of spinal pathologies and conditions.

"We have a simple, elegant, minimally invasive solution for posterior fixation," says Richard Fessler, MD, PhD, Professor, Department of Neurological Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.*

Biomechanical testing showed no significant differences in fixation or stability between VIPER F2 and conventional pedicle screws(1) when used to augment lateral interbody fusion. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), about 300,000 Americans have spinal fusion surgery each year.(2)

VIPER F2 consists of large diameter lag screws and fully functional poly-axial rings that help spine surgeons achieve rigid fixation and compression of facet joints, the joints that link vertebrae together and give the spine its flexibility. The screws insert bilaterally through the superior side of the facet, across the facet joint and into the inferior pedicle. Poly-axial rings are available to increase the load bearing area of the screw that is in contact with the bone. The VIPER F2 is for use in either traditional or minimally invasive spinal fusion surgery.   

"DePuy Spine is committed to delivering data-driven, innovative, and intuitive devices that help streamline procedures and foster procedural efficiency," says Namal Nawana, Worldwide President, DePuy Spine. "VIPER F2 is the latest example of this commitment to surgeons, patients and the health care system."

* Design consultant to DePuy Spine, Inc.

(1) Data on file with DePuy Spine, Inc.

(2) The Burden of Musculoskeletal Diseases in the United States. (2008). Retrieved from: http://www.boneandjointburden.org/pdfs/bmus_executive_summary_low.pdf