Biomaterial Improves Function in Spinal Fracture Patients

The preliminary results of a pilot study using a new minimally invasive vertebroplasty technique to repair spinal fractures show a 69% reduction in pain and a 59% improvement in function. The results were presented at the annual meeting of the Spine Society of Europe in Porto (Portugal) in June 2004.

In the vertebroplasty treatment technique used in the study, low volumes of a synthetic material called Cortoss were injected percutaneously through the skin into the fractured thoracic or lumbar vertebra to stabilize and restore load-bearing capability. The study involved 20 patients with compression fractures affecting a total of 26 vertebrae. Patients showed a significant, rapid reduction in pain and a restoration of function that was maintained 12 months after treatment.

Cortoss is a high-strength, biocompatible, self-setting composite specifically engineered to mimic the characteristics of the human body's weight-bearing structural bone. The material does not release any volatile monomers. Administered by a unit-dose disposable cartridge, Cortoss is designed to stabilize and provide immediate weight-bearing support to the spine. Because it is inherently radiopaque, Cortoss allows for excellent visualization of its placement under fluoroscopy or in postoperative studies. Cortoss was developed by Orthovita, Inc. (Malvern, PA, USA).

"This study further demonstrates the ability of Cortoss to restore and maintain lost function, and that these benefits are also maintained up to 12 months after treatment,” said Antony Koblish, president and CEO of Orthovita.




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