Integra Launches New Product

By Zacks Equity Research
On 2:16 pm EDT, Thursday October 1, 2009

Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation (NasdaqGS: IART - News) recently launched a smaller configuration of the innovative Accell Evo3 Demineralized Bone Matrix.

Symbol	Price	Change
IART	32.97	-0.29

JNJ	62.30	-1.00

MDT	42.72	-0.46

SYK	49.54	-0.85

WMGI	18.02	-0.66

This provides surgeons with the flexibility to use the device in surgical procedures where smaller amounts of demineralized bone matrix are required. The device was initially introduced as a bone void filler for large orthopedic reconstructive procedures.

Bone grafts stimulate new bone production and bone fusion in the patient’s body. Accell Evo3 may be used as a bone graft extender in the spine, extremities and pelvis, thereby eliminating the need for additional surgery.

The new product presents an opportunity to Integra to tap the fast-growing bone graft market. It is estimated that the U.S. market size for bone-graft substitutes in orthopedic spinal procedures is approximately $1.4 billion.

Last year, an estimated 880,000 orthopedic procedures were performed in the United States, including over 500,000 spinal fusions. Accell Evo3 Demineralized Bone Matrix is marketed in the U.S. by Integra OrthoBiologics distributor network.

Integra is a global leader in regenerative medicine. The company’s products are primarily used in orthopedic, general surgery and neurosurgery.

Integra faces tough competition across its different segments. In neurosurgery, its main competitors are Medtronic Inc. (NYSE: MDT - News), Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ - News) and B. Braun. In the reconstructive surgery segment, Integra competes with Wright Medical (NasdaqGS: WMGI - News). The orthopedic segment witnesses competition from Johnson & Johnson, Wright Medical and Stryker Corporation (NYSE: SYK - News).