Third Generation Artificial Discs.

[MikeC123]

Does anyone know anything about the Theken artificial disc or the Freedom artificial disc? I am trying to find as much information as I can. They supposedly use a polymer for flexibility instead of a polyethylene or metal center. I am hoping they start clinical trials very soon.

[NCFUSED]

HAve you seen this webpage, although it leaves out some of the Manufacterer names, it gives a quick prose on each technology.....

http://www.spineuniverse.com/displayarticle.php/article...html?source=overture

John
Greensboro, NC
DDD L5-S1
Awaiting Ins. Appeal Decision for ADR

[ans]

http://www.thekendisc.com/information/

[mmglobal]

I've seen the Theken disc, spoken to the developers and seen many presentations on it. Very 'gee whiz'. The electronics are cool and will generate some interesting data, but I think that success/failure will be determined based on the same criteria as with the current generation of discs.... with one added factor.

1. Good patient selection

2. Good implantation

3. Will the elastomer design hold up?

There was another elastomer design ADR called the Acroflex that was a disaster because the rubber metal bond wasn't reliable. I hope that with the advances in materials during the last decade will make this concern unnecessary.

Mark

[ans]

What if the electronics inside the disc fails?:

[mmglobal]

You take it to the Theken Depot Service counter at Fry's... they'll remove it and will have the disc for up to 10 business days. For an extra $230, you can get onsite service and a tech will come to your home or business.

As long as the disc works, I think the data is just mildly interesting. I doubt the electronics would be missed.

Mark

[Alastair]

Mike C123,
Shall we worry about this disc when the others have stopped working maybe

[mmglobal]

I like the idea of the elastomer design. Holding the disc, it is clear to me that it will be superior if it works and the elastomer/metal interface holds up... unlike the previous elasotmer designs. Materials science has come a very very very long way in the last 1.5 decades. So, even without the electonics... I like the Theken design... if it works long-term.

I am all for better and better designs and I hope the current batch of discs are soon obsolete.

Mark

[ans]

I'd rather have a Mac technician work on it.