Shanghai MicroPort Orthopedics Co ("MicroPort® Orthopedics") recently completed the first implantation of its in-house developed Futago™ Lumbar & Thoracic Fusion Device ("Futago™").
The device was used in a surgery conducted by Professor Hanying Xiong of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University to treat a patient with severe lumbar spondylolisthesis. After lumbar decompression, pedicle screw fixation and bond fusion with Futago™, the operation turned out to be a success with less bleeding and excellent postoperative effect. Professor Xiong also spoke highly of the performance of Futago™ and its related surgical instruments.
Futago™ is MicroPort® Orthopedics' first new lumbar & thoracic fusion device that gained approval from China Food and Drug Administration ("CFDA") for market launch in 2015, and it received CE Mark approval in 2011. Futago™, consisted of a fusion device and a mark, is designed for stabilization use and to promote bone fusion during the normal healing process following surgical correction of disorders of the lumbar & thoracic spine. It is implanted in posterior approach, compatible with Spinal Posterior Fixation System, and indicated for lumbar or thoracic interbody fusion, including degenerative discopathy, lumbar pseudarthrosis and degenerative or isthmic with grade 1 residual displacement after reduction.
Futago™ features patented teeth design, biocompatible Polyetheretherketone ("PEEK") material, secure implant placement, optimum graft area for bone ingrowth and special anatomic design which makes the implant easy to insert. PEEK is currently one of the best kinds of material to make fusion device.
With an aging population, there is a growing demand for spine fusions in China and all over the world. In particular, the launch of lumbar & thoracic fusion device made of PEEK is of great importance to patients with degenerative disorders of the lumbar & thoracic spine. With the completion of Futago™'s first implantation, the device is expected to benefit more patients in China.