Alphatec Spine Introduces the GLIF(TM) (Guided Lateral Interbody Fusion) Technique and the ARC Portal Access System
CARLSBAD, Calif., May 04, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) — 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.
