Zyga Gets U.S. Patents for its Primary Technology

Zyga Technology Inc., a medical device company focused on the development of minimally invasive devices to treat underserved conditions of the lumbar spine, received two more U.S. patents for its SImmetry Sacroiliac Joint Fusion System.

The company receieved U.S. Food and Drug Administration 510(k) clearance for the SImmetry system in August.

U.S. patent number 9,113,919 relates to the design of the company’s proprietary SImmetry Decorticator. This surgical instrument enables surgeons to prepare the sacroiliac (SI) joint for fusion by creating bleeding bone and space for autologous bone graft. This is accomplished through a minimally invasive, lateral approach that avoids disruption of supporting ligaments around the SI joint.

U.S. patent number 9,101,371 describes a method for revision of a failed previous SI joint fusion surgery. While rare, revisions are a critical part of spine surgery procedure development, ensuring that patients who do not initially achieve satisfactory results have options for future treatment.

“These latest patents make IP claims in connection with our technology that underscore our commitment to advancing the field of SI joint fusion,” said Jim Bullock, president and CEO of Minnetonka, Minn.-based Zyga. “When added to four patents issued earlier this year, they bring our total number of patents to 11 and demonstrate Zyga’s leadership in innovation for minimally-invasive spine surgery.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists back problems as the second most common cause of disability in U.S. adults. It has been reported that approximately 20 percent of all chronic lower back pain derives from the sacroiliac joint.

Zyga’s primary product is the SImmetry device to treat sacroiliac joint disruptions and degenerative sacroiliitis. The company also is conducting a U.S. multicenter clinical study of the Glyder Facet Restoration Device, a non-fusion, minimally invasive technology intended to provide relief from lumbar facet pain.