Introduction

Spinal disc replacement represents an emerging technology that many consider to be one of the greatest advances in orthopaedics in many years, with the potential to revolutionize spinal surgery by decreasing the use of spinal fusion, which has many known disadvantages. Datamonitor interviewed nine opinion leaders to evaluate current opinion on this topic. 

Scope

Focus on total disc replacement, with secondary coverage of nucleus disc replacement, including product and company coverage 

Interviews with seven European spinal surgeons from six different countries, one US spinal surgeon, and one US surgeon with ties to the FDA 

Datamonitor estimates of sales potential for artificial discs, based on surgeon opinion 

Transcripts of eight surgeon interviews 

Report Highlights

Opinion leading surgeons interviewed by Datamonitor are not confident that the use of artificial discs will reach the level of penetration suggested by many in the hype leading up to product approval. On average, surgeons expect that in ten years, only 30% of spinal fusion procedures will be replaced by total disc replacement. 

In order to increase the level of penetration, companies will need to provide robust clinical data, clearly define indications, and make improvements to the existing devices and procedures. This effort will likely define the competitive structure of the spinal implant market in the future. 

Reasons to Purchase

Identify steps required to increase surgeon uptake

Understand surgeon expectations for penetration of this technology 

Achieve competitive advantage based on surgeon suggested product improvements 

Publisher: Datamonitor Medical Devices Reports 

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