
3Spine
Description
3Spine is a Medtronic spin out. Medtronic purchased three-column IP in 2004 as the foundation for a posterior TJR IP portfolio, subsequently developing the KENAI device. In 2014 the portfolio was spun out to a private shell with Medtronic’s support to complete additional refinements and the US IDE, leveraging private capital. International Surgical purchased the IP in 2016, rebranding as BalancedBack and then MOTUS. International Surgical SEZC became 3Spine SEZC then 3Spine, Inc. 3Spine is now fully capitalized and entirely independent.
MOTUS is possibly the most researched biomechanical concept in spine history. Our team and prior teams at Medtronic completed primary research on spine morphology, nerve paths, movement patterns, new test methods, new materials including the first modern polyethylene13 in spine, and a first-of-kind technique. We were awarded Breakthrough Device Designation by FDA in 2020 and enjoy close collaboration with the FDA and CMS.
So why the name? 3Spine is built on some basic concepts: safely cross three columns of the spine (posterior, middle, and anterior) thereby gaining access, support, and correction; thereby replacing the function of three structures (two facets and the disc); thereby dynamically balancing the three curves of the spine; thereby transitioning safely between the three sagittal activities of daily living (standing, sitting, and slumped sitting). After nearly 20 years of research and clinical use, we now have a 4th generation technology, capital, and a team who believe deeply in our mission of transforming outcomes for spine patients worldwide.