An example of the precision afforded by Misonix ultrasound cutting technologies: an eggshell is cut and the membrane is left intact.
In an agreement finalized Tuesday, Aesculap announced it will distribute the FDA-cleared Misonix BoneScalpel, a new ultrasonic bone cutting device for use in orthopedic and neurological applications.
The agreement (which sets minimum purchase requirements) gives Aesculap rights to the device in the U.S. and specifies royalty payment for the sale of disposables. Misonix is investigating other international distribution partners.
Previously, Misonix had collaborated with Aesculap in the distribution of the company’s Sonastar Ultrasonic Aspirator for neurosurgery. Misonix believes Aesculap is well positioned to sell Sonastar and BoneScalpel in tandem.
BoneScalpel combines precise cutting ability with a soft tissue sparing capability; the device allows the surgeon to cut close to the nerve tissue while reducing the likelihood of injury to adjacent tissue. To date, BoneScalpel has been used in over 100 procedures.
The device uses ultrasonic vibrations to cut tissue. Because the blade element is moving back and forth at such high speeds, nothing can stick to it and less force (and time) is required to cut.
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, of the 550,000 spinal procedures performed annually, 58% require some type of bone cutting.
Misonix has built an extensive intellectual property portfolio and assembled a diversified line of medical devices. Misonix’s lead cancer treatment product is the Sonablate 500, which utilizes High Intensity Focused Ultrasound to treat prostate cancer. The market for treating prostate cancer is estimated at $750 million worldwide.
Other Misonix products include: the SonicOne Ultrasonic Would Debridement System; the Auto Sonix for cutting and coagulation; the Lysonix 3000, a surgical aspirator used during liposuction; and the FS1000-RF surgical aspirator, a multifunctional system designed to fragment, emulsify, and aspirate soft tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact – uses include the precise removal of tumors and growths in the brain and on the spinal cord.