Dr. Huffman is the director and lead spine surgeon at Huffman Clinic. He recently gave his thoughts on Kyphoplasty. We are pleased to share his insights.
Question 1. How long have you been performing kyphoplasty and from when did you start using Tracker Plus?
Dr. Huffman: I have been performing kyphoplasty since my fellowship training in 2004-2005. I started using the Tracker Plus system in April of 2022.
Q2. What are the benefits of Tracker Plus compared to other kyphoplasty devices you used in the past?
Dr. Huffman: The Tracker Plus is a complete system. It has both straight and curved balloons in a clinically useful variety of sizes. It has traditional manual cement fillers as well as the Tracker Plus Bone Cement delivery system and a curved Flex cement filler. The variety allows for easy treatment of a wide range of fracture morphologies.
Q3. What are the benefits of Tracker Plus in terms of patient outcomes?
Dr. Huffman: Once again, Tracker Plus is a complete system. If I need an extra device, such as the biopsy kit or the Flex Drill I do not need to open a different system or waste unnecessary components. This allows me to tailor each case to the particular needs of the patient.
Q4. How is it working with GS Medical and what would you like them to improve upon?
Dr. Huffman: GS Medical has been very responsive to any requests or questions that I have. I look forward to working with GS Medical on improvements and additions to the system. I would like to see a higher gauge flex delivery system and some further improvements in the Tracker Plus Cement Delivery System. I also think they should consider developing a system based on smaller trocar needles that could be used in the upper thoracic spine.