Smart Disc issued patent for artificial spinal disc technology

Sep 11 2008

Smart Disc, Inc., a Michigan-based medical technology company focused on the development of new and innovative spine products, announced today that it has been awarded Patent US 7,407,513 B2 for Smart Disc’s unique artificial spinal disc technology.

Smart Disc’s spinal replacement disc for the spine mimics the functionality of the patient’s own intervertebral disc and can be put into place by the surgeon via a posterior application (thereby avoiding the need to go through the front of the patient, as is the current standard practice in disc replacement). The prosthesis is intended to maintain the normal movement between the vertebral bodies and prevent them from collapsing and thereby irritating or damaging the nerve root by maintaining the disc space height between the bones.

"Being issued this patent is a significant step forward for Smart Disc,” said M. Ross Simmonds, who sits on Smart Disc’s Board of Directors. “The patent claims now enable Smart Disc to move toward bringing the surgical community a viable new alternative.”

"It’s gratifying that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has recognized the novel innovations that we have developed," said Terry Fiscus, Smart Disc’s Chief Financial Officer. “This milestone is a major step for us not only because it protects our intellectual property, but because it moves us closer to a stage in our development where we can become a significant innovator of devices to help improve surgical outcomes.”

Smart Disc, Inc. is a Michigan-based medical technology company focused on the development of new and innovative spine products, primarily replacement discs for the spine which can be put into place by the surgeon via a posterior application.