Press Release

Radiolucent Corpectomy Device is the First of its Kind

September 6, 2006 - AUDUBON, PA, USA  PRNewswire - Globus Medical, Inc., one of the ten largest spinal implant manufacturers in the U.S., has announced the introduction of XPand™ R. The unique device represents a significant breakthrough in spinal fusion surgery for cases involving both trauma and tumors. XPand R is the first vertebral body replacement device of its kind in the marketplace constructed from radiolucent polymer (PEEK) material.
 
"XPand R represents the next logical progression in our line of corpectomy spacer products," stated Bill Rhoda, Group Engineering Manager, Globus Medical. "The successful utilization of PEEK material takes postoperative patient care to a new level." Unlike titanium, the radiolucent polymer allows the surgeon to view an x-ray without any visual obstruction. In addition, the modulus of elasticity - or measure of stiffness - of the PEEK material is more similar to bone, which can aid in fusion.

"One of the implant's most important attributes is realized in the treatment of patients with spinal tumors," remarked Laurence D. Rhines, M.D., Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas. "The radiolucent material may reduce the artifact seen on postoperative MRI imaging, allowing for improved radiologic monitoring and earlier detection of tumor recurrence."

Like its titanium counterpart, XPand R provides for infinite height expansion to meet a variety of anatomical challenges in fusion surgery. XPand R is offered with multiple footprints, height ranges, lordotic/kyphotic angles, and approach options, providing a high degree of interoperative flexibility. The device is simple to use, allowing the surgeon to insert and distract the spacer using only one instrument.

According to Rhoda, Globus Medical was able to launch XPand R within a year of its initial concept. The company utilized the engineering expertise acquired in the development of its original titanium XPand device in order to meet the challenges of creating an expandable spacer constructed from radiolucent polymer, strong enough to withstand anatomical loads. The full rollout of XPand R will occur in September 2006.

About Globus Medical, Inc.

Globus Medical, Inc. is one of the ten largest spinal implant manufacturers in the U.S., and one of the fastest growing spine companies in the world. Based in Audubon, Pa., the privately held company was founded in 2003 by an experienced team of spine professionals with a shared vision to create products that enable spine surgeons to employ both fusion and non- fusion solutions to promote healing in patients with spinal disorders. The company has a full portfolio of spinal fusion products, burgeoning initiatives in biomaterials development and minimally invasive approaches, and is among the world leaders in the development of motion sparing technology. Additional information can be accessed at www.globusmedical.com.