Medtronic Introduces EQUATION Spinal System, Which May Help Improve Fusion Outcomes in Spinal Surgery.

Business Editors/Health/Medical Writers

MEMPHIS, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 23, 2003

EQUATION(TM) Spinal System Features an Innovative Semi-Rigid

Design that Restores the Spine's Natural Weight Distribution

Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE:MDT) today announced the launch of its EQUATION(TM) Spinal System at the 18th Annual Meeting of the North American Spine Society (NASS) in San Diego.

Representing a new trend in spinal surgery, the EQUATION System is based on load sharing principles, which state that load, or weight, should be shared between the front (about 80 percent) and the back (about 20 percent) of the spine. "Load sharing principles are being applied to the spine with the EQUATION System, and that load sharing helps protect the fusion during the bone formation process," said Jorge Isaza, M.D., Louisiana Orthopaedic and Spine Institute.

The EQUATION System provides spinal stabilization that more naturally mimics the load distribution of human anatomy. "The EQUATION System offers a more physiologic bracing of the spine," said Dr. Isaza. "The system allows axial load, or body weight, to be placed more appropriately on the fusion area."

By combining load-sharing principles with spinal stabilization, the EQUATION System may help improve the outcomes surgeons and patients are seeking. Used in conjunction with a spinal fusion, the EQUATION System is designed to act as an "internal cast" to stabilize the discs until fusion occurs. A successful fusion typically means relief from chronic back pain and a return to normal activities.

For people suffering from back pain and radiating leg pain resulting from a spinal disorder, the EQUATION System offers an attractive alternative for stabilization of the spine. About 12 million people in the United States are physically impaired by back pain every year, according to a 2003 report by the American Chronic Pain Association.

Medtronic, Inc., headquartered in Minneapolis, is the world's leading medical technology company, providing lifelong solutions for people with chronic disease. Medtronic Sofamor Danek, the company's spinal business, is the global leader in spinal technology. Headquartered in Memphis, Medtronic's Spinal business develops and manufactures products that treat a variety of disorders of the cranium and spine, including traumatically induced conditions, degenerative conditions, deformities and tumors. More information can be found at www.back.com and www.medtronicsofamordanek.com/patient-spinal-equation.html.

All treatment and outcome results are specific to the individual patient. Results may vary.

Any statements made about the company's anticipated financial results and regulatory approvals are forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 25, 2003. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.