DePuy Spine, Inc. Gains Broader FDA Clearance for Spinal Devices

Johnson & Johnson’s (NYSE:JNJ) DePuy Synthes Spine is expanding its reach in the spine market with U.S. Food and Drug Administration clearance of three of its systems for use in adolescents with scoliosis undergoing posterior noncervical pedicle screw fixation. The Expedium, Viper and Viper 2 spine systems, which are already cleared for use in adults, received the additional 510(k) clearance last month, the company said today. The Viper and Viper 2 have been used in minimally invasive spine surgeries since 2005 and 2008, respectively, and the Expedium 4.5 Spine System for use in small statue patients was launched in 2008.