Spine Next

Spine Next, S.A. was a privately held French medical technology company established in 1999. Based in Bordeaux, France, the firm specialized in the manufacturing of orthopedic spinal implant devices. Spine Next focused on developing solutions for degenerative spinal diseases, marketing a range of products for traditional spinal fusion surgeries alongside more advanced non-fusion technologies.

The company's key product was the Wallis system, a dynamic stabilization implant designed to treat early-stage degenerative disc disease. Unlike spinal fusion, which immobilizes vertebrae, the Wallis system provided stability and support to the spine while preserving motion for the patient. This approach offered a less invasive treatment option, potentially targeting the disease earlier in its progression than artificial discs. The Wallis system gained regulatory approval and was marketed throughout Europe and other international markets, with most of the company's sales occurring outside of the United States.

From its inception, Spine Next was supported by several venture capital and private equity firms, including 3i, Auriga Partners, and Edmond de Rothschild Investment Partners. This backing facilitated the company's research and development efforts and its expansion into global markets. In October 2004, the company was acquired by Abbott Laboratories for approximately $60 million in cash, with potential for additional milestone-based payments. The acquisition was part of Abbott's strategy to enhance its spinal product line with non-fusion technology and to expand its global distribution network.

Keywords: orthopedic spinal implants, dynamic stabilization, degenerative disc disease, Wallis system, non-fusion spinal implant, spinal surgery devices, medical technology, Abbott acquisition, spine implants, vertebral stabilization, motion preservation, spinal concepts, medical device manufacturer, Bordeaux medtech, interspinous process device