Ortho Kinematics said today it launched the VMA-Align diagnostic module for its Vertebral Motion Analysis system, designed to provide data to spinal surgeons for patient selection and planning for lumbar fusion surgery.

The VMA system from Austin, Texas-based Ortho Kinematics uses fluoroscopy to capture images of the spine in motion, is designed to displace traditional X-ray imaging as the primary method for identifying spinal dysfunction, the company said.

VMA-Align reports will be included as part of the standard VMA diagnostic reports and require no additional workflow for existing users, Ortho Kinematics said.

“Several well-regarded studies of lumbar fusion surgery patients have demonstrated correlations between alignment measurements and long term clinical symptoms. In my clinical practice, alignment data can routinely change my decisions regarding patient selection, the type of surgery, and the number of levels involved,” Dr. Richard Kube of the Prairie Spine & Pain Institute said in a press release.

In May, Ortho Kinematics said it won Health Canada authorization for its Vertebral Motion Analysis spinal imaging system. The company said it plans to begin offering the VMA system in Canada later this year, with initial distribution limited to a select group of spine care institutions.

In April, Ortho Kinematics said it won CE Mark approval in the European Unionfor its Vertebral Motion Analysis system designed to assess spinal motion and radiographic instability.