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Zimmer receives pediatric clearance for Universal Clamp Spinal Fixation System
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Zimmer Holdings Inc. announced it has received an additional clearance for its proprietary Universal Clamp Spinal Fixation System. The system is now indicated for treatment of idiopathic and neuromuscular scoliosis in patients 8 years of age or older.
The Universal Clamp System was designed for use in conjunction with spinal deformity procedures, according to a Zimmer release. Introduced in Europe in 2006 and in the United States in 2008, the Universal Clamp Implant reportedly offers a pedicle-sparing approach for malformed or small thoracic pedicles while still providing similar stability to pedicle screw constructs. The Universal Clamp band spreads contact forces over a greater surface area, thereby reducing the risk of pulling through the lamina compared to wires and hooks. The system's reduction instrumentation allows surgeons to sequentially reduce deformity and spread the reduction forces over multiple levels.
"Scoliosis affects a significant number of young patients in the United States each year," Steve Healy, president of Zimmer Spine, stated in the release. "We are excited to make the Universal Clamp System available as an advanced solution for surgeons treating young patients."