MEMPHIS, Tenn., Oct 06, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) --

Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE:MDT) today announced the U.S. launch of the VERTEX SELECT(R) Reconstruction System Posted Screw Module. The announcement was made at the 25th Annual Meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS) in Orlando, Fla.

The Posted Screw Module is a supplement to the VERTEX SELECT(R) Reconstruction System and broadens surgeons' options for treating patients who require fixation of the vertebrae in the upper-thoracic spine.

The VERTEX SELECT(R) Reconstruction System consists of implants and general instruments that can be used to surgically treat patients with a variety of conditions that can contribute to spinal instability, including degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, fracture, tumors, and/or spondylolisthesis.

The Posted Screw Module provides surgeons a choice to pick between multiple options to better accommodate patient anatomy. It also offers surgeons the option of using a system that includes headless, posted screws and adjustable connectors for procedures requiring fixation in the upper-thoracic spine. These components allow for and enable connection from any direction, angle, and/or height. The connectors allow for variable rod and screw angles, and also rotate around the rod.

"The Posted Screw Module is the newest addition to the VERTEX(R) System family of products, which has over a nine-year clinical history," says Doug King, Vice President and General Manager of Medtronic's Spine business. "The addition of the Posted Screw Module further differentiates the VERTEX(R) System by enabling surgeons to choose between multiple fixation options to better accommodate patient anatomy and pathology."

About Medtronic's Spine Business

Medtronic's Spine business, based in Memphis, Tennessee, is the global leader in today's spine market and is committed to advancing the treatment of spinal conditions. Medtronic Spine collaborates with world-renowned surgeons, researchers and innovative partners to offer state-of-the-art products and technologies for neurological, orthopaedic and spinal conditions. Medtronic is committed to developing affordable, minimally invasive procedures that provide lifestyle friendly surgical therapies. More information about the company and its spinal treatments can be found at www.medtronicspinal.com and its patient-education Web sites, www.back.com, www.iscoliosis.com, www.maturespine.com and www.necksurgery.com.

About Medtronic

Medtronic, Inc. (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology-alleviating pain, restoring health, and extending life for millions of people around the world.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

SOURCE: Medtronic, Inc.

Medtronic, Inc.
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