Decompression Catheter for Herniated Discs

Smith & Nephew, Inc., Endoscopy Division, a subsidiary of Smith & Nephew plc (NYSE: SNN) (London Stock Exchange: SN), yesterday announced the introduction of the Smith & Nephew Decompression Catheter, an ElectroThermal(TM) or heat-based procedure for lower back and leg pain associated with bulging or contained herniated discs. Each year, approximately six million Americans make new visits to physicians for back pain and nearly 500,000 require hospitalization. In addition, industry studies estimate that direct medical costs for lower back pain are roughly $24 billion with an additional $30 to...