Medtronic Introduces MASTERGRAFT PUTTY and MATRIX at 2006 North American Spine Society Meeting

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Sept. 28, 2006 – Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE: MDT) today introduced two new synthetic bone graft products developed to provide surgeons with a comprehensive MASTERGRAFT® ceramic option. MASTERGRAFT® MATRIX and MASTERGRAFT® PUTTY are designed to fill gaps in the skeletal system that are not intrinsic to the stability of the bony structure. These new grafts give surgeons more handling options, while providing an osteoconductive implant that localizes biologic components-possibly aiding cellular proliferation and osteointegration during the bone healing process.

MASTERGRAFT MATRIX is a compressive-resistant, resorbable, osteoconductive collagen scaffold block with embedded MASTERGRAFT® GRANULES. When bone marrow aspirate is added to the block, it may be placed in many orthopedic applications where an osteogenic material is needed. The graft may facilitate uninterrupted bone growth by preserving space by withholding compressive forces from the surrounding muscles and tissues.

MASTERGRAFT PUTTY is a malleable, resorbable, osteoconductive collagen scaffold with embedded MASTERGRAFT GRANULES. MASTERGRAFT PUTTY may be used with bone marrow aspirate or sterile water. When the hydrated graft is combined with local bone, it may provide more suitable handling characteristics for the surgical procedure. This radiopaque graft has no shape constraints while maintaining integrity throughout the surgical procedure.

The physical and chemical characteristics of both MASTERGRAFT MATRIX and MASTERGRAFT PUTTY may offer a favorable environment for bony ingrowth and larger healing complexes. The MASTERGRAFT family of products provide physicians a comprehensive synthetic bone grafting options, permitting intra-operative flexibility depending on patient anatomy and the surgical environment.

About the Spinal Business at Medtronic
Medtronic’s spinal business, based in Memphis, Tenn., is the global leader in today’s spine market and is committed to advancing the treatment of spinal conditions. Medtronic’s spinal business collaborates with world-renowned surgeons, researchers and innovative partners to offer state-of-the-art products and technologies for orthopedic and spinal conditions. Medtronic is committed to developing affordable, minimally invasive procedures that provide lifestyle friendly surgical therapies. More information about the company and its spinal treatments can be found at www.medtronicspinal.com and its patient-education Web sites, www.back.com, www.iscoliosis.com, www.maturespine.com and www.necksurgery.com.

About Medtronic
Medtronic, Inc. (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology – alleviating pain, restoring health, and extending life for millions of people around the world

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Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 28, 2006. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

Contact Information

Bert Kelly

Public Relations Communications Manager

Medtronic, Inc.

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