MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Dec. 6, 2012 - Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE: MDT) the world leader in spinal technology, announced the U.S. launch of the company's latest addition to their cervical surgical technique portfolio. The announcement was made at the 40th annual meeting of the Cervical Spine Research Society.

The CERVICAL FACETLIFTSM ID/S surgical technique is an innovative procedure that indirectly decompresses the neural foramen and stabilizes the cervical spine. This technique is accomplished by placing structured allograft spacers, CORNERSTONE® Facet MicroGrafts, into the posterior cervical (neck) facet joints.   The system is comprised of a small set of surgical instrumentation that will aid in the preparation of the facet joints and for the placement of the grafts into the joints. 

The technique increases the volumetric area of the exiting nerve root that may be compressed causing a neurological deficit.1   In addition, this technique may reduce the bending direction of the cervical spine. 2 This reduction in bending may assist in fusion following supplemental fixation such as the VERTEX SELECT® Reconstruction System when used to treat DDD (neck pain of discogenic origin with degeneration of the disc confirmed by history and radiographic studies), spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, fracture, dislocation, failed previous fusion and/or tumors. These results were shown in biomechanical studies and may vary in human clinical outcomes. 

The CORNERSTONE® system incorporates technology developed by Gary K. Michelson, M.D.

About Medtronic's Spinal Business
Medtronic's spinal business, based in Memphis, Tenn., is the global leader in today's spine market and is committed to advancing the treatment of spinal conditions. Medtronic's spinal business collaborates with world-renowned surgeons, researchers and innovative partners to offer state-of-the-art therapies for spinal, neurological, orthopaedic and oral maxillofacial conditions. Medtronic is committed to developing affordable, minimally invasive procedures that provide lifestyle friendly surgical therapies.

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.

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1Traynelis, V. (2012) Effect of Machined Interfacet Allografts on Foraminal Height and Area.  Internal Test Report.
2Puttlitz, C. (2012).  Cortical bone facet spacers for cervical spine decompression:  Range of motion biomechanics and computer tomography cervical foramen area analysis.  Internal Test Report

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