HydroCision Introduces a New Curved Access Set for the Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Discectomy Market

BILLERICA, Mass., November 19, 2009 — HydroCision Inc. (www.hydrocision.com) announced today the launch of its new SpineJet® Percutaneous Curved Access Set for use in herniated disc procedures using its novel cutting-with-water fluidjet technology. “Providing a new curved access set should assist physicians in reaching difficult to approach areas of the back through very small incisions,” says Doug Daniels, President and CEO of HydroCision. “This system will allow a growing number of neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and interventional pain physicians to help their patients who are seeking a less invasive alternative to treat radicular pain from a contained protruded disc. Given our challenging economic environment, a procedure that can reduce downtime from work will be a real advantage to employees and employers.”

The Company’s SpineJet Percutaneous HydroDiscectomy System uses a high velocity water jet to simultaneously cut and remove nucleus to decompress herniated (bulging) discs, quickly, safely, and effectively— without the collateral thermal or mechanical trauma of other surgical modalities — providing relief to patients suffering from back and/or leg pain.

“Approximately 50% of lumbar disc herniations occur at the L5/S1 level and are difficult, if not impossible, to reach with straight instruments, states Dr. Gabriel Jasper, M.D. Director, Center for Pain Control, Brick, New Jersey. “In the past, lumbar epidural steroid injections or selective nerve root blocks have been the most effective minimally invasive tools on these herniations.” The ability of these treatments to improve symptoms of nerve root compression commonly referred to as “sciatica” or radiculopathy is well established. However, for patients who continue to suffer radicular or lower back pain radiating down the leg despite traditional medical management (physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, narcotics, steroid injections), a major treatment gap has existed between conservative management and progression to surgery. Today, HydroDiscectomy bridges that gap.”