(RAYNHAM, Mass., October 1, 2003) -- To signify a pivotal point in the history of its spine division and reflect its mission and growing position in the DePuy franchise, the DePuy AcroMed division of DePuy, Inc. has been renamed “DePuy Spine”, a Johnson & Johnson company.

Based south of Boston, DePuy Spine was known as DePuy AcroMed since 1998. The company was established as the science of spine surgery began to significantly develop - on the principles of surgeon-driven spinal solutions and anterior column support.

Recently, significant investments have been made in every aspect of the business - in new technologies, including the CHARITÉ™ Artificial Disc, HEALOS® Bone Graft Substitute, and Bone Morphogenic Protein (MP-52) Technology. Additional investments by the company include larger medical education forums, in a bigger, better trained sales force, in more clinical and laboratory research, and in an array of new products to improve patient care.

“Our new name directly reflects our focus on the needs of patients and customers,” said Earl R. Fender, President of DePuy Spine. “Even more importantly, the true character of a company is revealed by the integrity with which we conduct business, the ingenuity with which we collaborate with surgeons to create new devices and therapies, as well as the overall dedication of everyone at DePuy Spine to meet the needs of the medical community and the patients they serve. If we continue to do this well, we believe many great things are possible,” said Mr. Fender.

DePuy Spine, a Johnson & Johnson company, has partnered with leading clinicians, researchers, and thought leaders to develop products to treat spine disorders for over 20 years. Today, DePuy Spine stands in the forefront of the worldwide spine market, with a substantial sales organization in the United States and an expanding worldwide distribution network. The company is committed to advancing the knowledge of all healthcare professionals and their patients in addressing spinal pathologies.