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Innovative Spinal Technologies Inc. Announces Launch of Paramount(TM) Pedicle Screw System For MIS Surgery

Published: Sep 26, 2006

MANSFIELD, Mass., Sept. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Innovative Spinal Technologies, Inc. (IST), quickly emerging as a leading developer of the world's most advanced minimally invasive treatments for spinal disorders, announced the U.S. commercial launch of the Paramount(TM) Pedicle Screw System for minimally invasive spine surgery. The Paramount System received FDA premarket clearance in December 2005. The system has been available in limited distribution as IST continued to perfect the surgical instrumentation and technique. The system is now available nationwide through IST's direct network of spine consultants.

An estimated 260,000 lumbar fusions will be performed this year to treat common disorders of the spine. Typically, this type of procedure involves a highly invasive open technique or a minimally invasive technique that forces the surgeon to trade off ease-of-use or system strength. The potential benefits of Paramount include quicker procedures, reduced blood loss, less tissue trauma and scarring, less postoperative pain, and a shorter hospital stay.

"With the launch of Paramount system, we are moving the state of minimally invasive fusion a significant step forward," said Scott Schorer, President and CEO of IST. "The Paramount System is the first in a series of breakthrough minimally invasive fusion and motion preservation technologies to be introduced by IST."

The Paramount Pedicle Screw System is engineered from the ground up to meet the demanding requirements of single- and multi-level minimally invasive lumbar fusion procedures -- without any compromise to ease of use, quality or strength. The advanced screw delivery system uses a proprietary non-cannulated screw design with a K-wire guided tip for accurate screw placement and enhanced screw strength.

Dr. Ali Araghi, who, along with Dr. Luiz Pimenta, performed the first worldwide surgery of the Paramount System, describes the Paramount system as a great advance in ease-of-use. "This system delivers what we, as spine surgeons, have been looking for," said Dr. Araghi. "The streamlined procedure and overall robustness of the implants combined with the potential patient benefits of a less invasive approach make the system outstanding."

"With the Paramount System, I don't have to compromise," said Dr. Barton Sachs, from Plano, Texas, who was the first surgeon to implant Paramount in the U.S. "The innovative screw and rod delivery give me the accuracy and control required in a minimally invasive procedure."

"Paramount showcases IST's building-block approach to its systems, as it serves as the platform for future launches of open and minimally invasive fusion and motion-preservation systems," added Mr. Schorer. "Our highly-experienced direct sales force will provide the best service in the industry."

About IST: Innovative Spinal Technologies, Inc.

Headquartered in Mansfield, Mass., and founded in 2002, IST is a privately held spine technology company committed to advancing patient treatment by developing the world's most advanced products focused on minimally invasive fusion and motion preservation. IST is a rapidly growing company, and leverages a strong investor group consisting of MPM Capital, Orbimed Advisors, and Panorama Capital. IST's partners include some of the world's most advanced clinical leaders. For information regarding the Paramount(TM) Pedicle Screw System, please contact Rob Brown, Vice President of Product Marketing, 508-618-1295 or rbrown@ISTspine.com. More information about IST can be found at www.istspine.com .

Innovative Spinal Technologies, Inc.

CONTACT: Rob Brown, Vice President of Product Marketing of InnovativeSpinal Technologies, Inc., +1-508-618-1295, or rbrown@ISTspine.com

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