Next-Generation Biomimetics
MinDisc
A novel minimally invasive artificial spinal disc for patients with degenerative disc disease or disc trauma that promotes physiological biomechanics.
Spinal orthopaedic surgery is currently a very invasive procedure, which results in significant soft tissue and bone damage. This causes long recovery times and alters the biomechanics of the spine. MinDisc is a novel minimally invasive implant, which accelerates recovery time and risk of infection.
About Us
Innovative MinDisc accelerates recovery,Enhances Biomechanics
The Bioengineering Science Research Group at the University of Southampton has been developing a next-generation compliant spinal disc prosthesis designed to emulate the biomechanics of the natural disc. The implant has been developed alongside clinicians, enabling consideration of the surgical approach and mechanical design congruently.
The unique design of the MinDisc implant benefits patients, healthcare providers and surgeons alike – its novel construction reduces tissue damage, improves recovery time and minimizes the risk of infection.
Our Problem Solver
Minimally Invasive Surgery Addresses Current Limitations
Most people will experience back pain at some point in their lives. In many cases, this pain originates from a damaged disc and can be debilitating. Artificial disc replacement is a great surgical option but current technology has 3 key limitations.
The MinDisc device addresses all these issues by being compatible with minimally invasive surgery, significantly reduces damage to the contacting bone and is engineered to closely exhibit the same biomechanical behaviour as a healthy intervertebral disc. The implant is also suitable for use with a traditional anterior surgical approach and still provides many benefits over existing technology in this configuration.
Invasive Rethink
Typical disc replacement surgery is a very invasive procedure, usually performed through an incision in the patient’s abdomen. Organs and blood vessels must be negotiated, leading to long recovery times. The MinDisc implant alleviates these issues.
Bone Compatibility
Existing implants damage the contacting bone which can cause subsidence of the implant and even vertebral fracture. The MinDisc device minimises bone damage and maintains natural loading in the joint.
Joint Instability
Many current implants do not accurately reproduce the biomechanics of the natural disc, leading to joint instability and accelerated damage to other spinal joints.
Introduction to MinDisc
Who We Support
Our Target Segments
Introducing a pioneering solution poised to revolutionize spinal care across diverse sectors, targeting key stakeholders invested in enhancing patient outcomes. Implant manufacturers stand to benefit from our device’s ability to significantly reduce damage to contacting bone, thus addressing a critical concern in the industry while advancing the standards of care. Health care providers, eager to offer their patients the latest advancements in spinal treatment, will find our device invaluable, as it closely exhibits the biomechanical behavior of a healthy intervertebral disc, promising improved surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Moreover, in the veterinary realm, particularly in the treatment of dogs and horses, our innovation presents an opportunity to elevate the standard of care, providing solutions that minimise bone damage and emulate natural biomechanics, ultimately enhancing their quality of life..
Implant manufacturers
Device reduces bone damage, advances care, benefits implant manufacturers.
Health Care Providers
Providers value device for improved outcomes, patient satisfaction in spine treatment.
Veterinary Care
Innovative device enhances veterinary care, minimizes bone damage, improves biomechanics.
Your Opinion Counts!
Help shape the future of spinal health! Participate in our survey to refine our next-generation compliant spinal disc prosthesis, mirroring natural biomechanics. Your input matters.
Get to Know Us
Meet Our Team
Dr Andy Taylor
Industry Scientific Advisor
Dr Duncan Holmes
Business Advisor
Dr Kambiz Kalantari
Technology Transfer Officer
Prof. Alex Dickinson
Secondary Scientific Advisor
Prof. Martin Browne
Principal Scientific Advisor
Dr Mike Godfrey
Inventor and Project Lead
Contact the Team
Contact Us
Helping Patients With Debilitating Back Pain
We are developing a next-generation, minimally invasive artificial spinal disc for patients with degenerative disc disease or disc trauma.