If you’ve had spine surgery to remove a damaged disc, there’s a chance you have an implant invented by a local surgeon.

Published: March 24, 2016 | Updated: November 22, 2022

If you’ve had spine surgery to remove a damaged disc, there’s a chance you have an implant invented by a local surgeon.

Rolando Puno, M.D., orthopedic spine surgeon with Norton Leatherman Spine Center, invented the Epicage System — a spacer that replaces a damaged disc between two vertebrae. Unlike previous methods, Dr. Puno’s design allows the surgeon to install a spacer safely and in the best location to allow for bone healing.

The spacer is frequently used in patients with degenerative disc disease, a common age-related condition.