Monday Mornings Scratch Sheet on NuVasive

This past weekend figured to be a relatively quiet one, when all of a sudden on Friday TSB felt like I was at the first race at Santa Anita, and "the race for first place" was back on. Of course "The Race for First Place" is this years spine industry version of the of the run for the roses. Back in November and December there was angst and skepticism amongst the investment community when word circulated that NUVA had some reimbursement issues for its thoroughbred, XLIF.

Within days, there were analysts conference calls by NuVasive to quell rumors that the race for first place had not suffered a setback. Within days of Lukianov's calls, analysts held there own conference calls, and also conferred with a reimbursement specialist. Though the track had gotten a bit muddy, there is no doubt that through it all, NuVasive exhibited that it can be considered a mudder. The Judge for this race against time was the insurance companies that were questioning XLIF. Hedging their bet on their thoroughbred, NuVa was able to cover by having NASS, the spine industry's version of the Racing Commission, step in and clarify what XLIF is, or is not. By enlisting NASS' help, Lukianov was betting that his horse would not be out of the money. Considering that he pulled out all stops, Lukianov is parlaying his bet that he will finish 2010 at no worse than fourth place. The morning line for this money rider is $40 per share.

Now that the inquiry is over, its post time for NuVa. The question must be asked of our readers, will NuVa be able to step up to the gate and run with the other thoroughbreds in our industry? The track conditions have been firmed up by Friday's news, the question is whether the jockey can continue to spin his magic on XLIF, or, is he wishing for a race that he can't win? Besides, Lukianov would look cute in purple and silver silks. We'll find out by Wednesday if there was any truth to a rumor that something's happening at Apatech. TSB wants to know what our readers think?