The holy grail in the medical-device industry is finding a product to address an unmet medical need—and the bigger the market, the better.
Disc Dynamics of Eden Prairie may be poised to claim the cup. Its Dascor Disc Arthroplasty System for repairing discs in the spine offers a minimally invasive surgical treatment option for the millions of patients suffering from lower-back pain.
Early clinical results have been favorable, positioning the private company to start a pivotal 350-patient clinical study next year. Bolstering Disc Dynamics’ chances for commercial success are its lead venture capitalist, Dave Stassen of Split Rock Partners, and its CEO Steve Healy, formerly of St. Jude Medical.
