Overall concept for endoscopic operations on the cervical spine

Richard Wolf presents an innovative spinal instrument set

Knittlingen, October 2009 – Endoscopic surgical techniques on the lumbar spine have become increasingly important in recent years. The primary advantages are minimum trauma as a result of the small access route and improved visualization. Richard Wolf, one of the leading global suppliers of endoscopes and endoscopic systems, joined forces with Dr. Sebastian Rütten from St. Anna Hospital in Herne to develop the VERTEBRIS lumbal instrument set. This enables spinal disc herniations and selected spinal canal stenoses in the lumbar spine.
Continuous development has resulted in VERTEBRIS cervical, a complete system for carrying out fully endoscopic surgery on the cervical spine. Apart from defining indication criteria, the focus of development was on improving visualization and the use of robust instruments for coagulation, extraction of tissue and resection of bony structures.
The restricted dimensions mean that it is not necessary to dilate the intervertebral space when using the new instrument set. This means that the vertebral discs are largely retained, collateral damage to muscles and ligaments is reduced and scar tissue is kept to a minimum.
However, VERTEBRIS cervical is not just an instrument set. It comprises a holistic concept for endoscopic treatment of disc herniations in the cervical spine through various access ports.  Dr. Rütten cooperated closely with Richard Wolf to analyze the problems encountered in operations with ventral access. The findings formed the basis for developing an instrument set with impressive optical characteristics. These are primarily based on a rigid lens system within a robust telescope design. The oval shape of the sheath and the use of an endoscope without an integrated working channel mean that the system only has a height of 4 mm.
 

The remaining space allows articulated Trigger-Flex Electrodes to be deployed for pin-point coagulation, as well as abrading and punching for optimum bone resection. The use of the 25° telescope creates an all-round view for the surgeon which most importantly provides a bigger image than the microscope for inspection of the spinal canal.
A special endoscope was developed for dorsal access and this completes the VERTEBRIS cervical with a unique feature created by adapting the geometrical dimensions to the anatomy of the cervical spine.

Press contact:
Richard Wolf GmbH
Elke Lauser (Marketing)
Pforzheimer Str. 32
75438 Knittlingen
Germany

Tel.: +49 (0) 70 43 35-305
Email: elke.lauser@richard-wolf.com