SPINE-VISION
Amber Implants is developing an innovative motion-preserving spinal cage as a revolutionary alternative to lumbar fusion surgery for treating herniated discs. This implant stabilizes the spine while preserving mobility, reducing the risk of long-term complications like adjacent segment degeneration. A newly established public-private partnership between Amber Implants BV and UMC Utrecht supports the development, ensuring that cutting-edge research and real-world clinical insights guide product advancement.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft tissue inside a disc tear and pushes through the hard outer layer of the disc. This can compress nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or loss of strength. It is estimated that tens of millions of people worldwide experience a herniated disc each year. The decision to undergo surgery varies depending on the severity of symptoms and individual cases. In general, about 15-20% of people ultimately opt for a surgical procedure (lumbar fusion). There is debate surrounding lumbar fusion due to its disputed efficacy, risks, and overuse. While it provides relief from severe back pain, there are concerns about the long-term risks, such as degeneration of adjacent segments and loss of spinal mobility.
Amber Implants has developed a groundbreaking cage to replace the disc. This cage (or “motion preservation cage”) is a revolutionary alternative to lumbar fusion surgery. This product restores stability to the spine while preserving mobility. This reduces the risk of adjacent segment degeneration and promotes long-term functionality, thus improving the treatment of this condition.
The goal of this project is to further develop the product through prototyping and preclinical studies (mechanical testing, cadaver studies, and usability sessions) to assess safety and functionality. Feedback of the results and product optimization are crucial during this iterative development process.
