Solvay Specialty Polymers says that its Ixef 1022 polyarylamide (PARA) 50% glass-filled resin has been used to mold several components of a staple fixation system used for surgical procedures on the forefoot.
Instratek reportedly chose the resin due to its high strength and stiffness and improved moldability.
‘Our engineers initially explored several materials for this application, including ABS and PEI, but none could match Ixef PARA’s unique combination of mechanical properties, aesthetics and manufacturability,’ claimed Lance Terrill, director of engineering at Instratek.
Ixef 1022 PARA resin is used for the staple inserter handles, which are subject to high bending stress when the device opens a superelastic nitinol staple prior to its insertion into the bone. Of the polymers tested, only Ixef 1022 PARA allowed bending of the nitinol staple while minimizing flexing in the tool’s handles. The flexural strength of Solvay’s material also helped to reduce the size of the STAPiX spreader handles, thereby improving the experience of the surgeon and support staff in the operating room.
Worldwide availability
Ixef 1022 PARA demonstrates no evidence of cytotoxicity, sensitization, intracutaneous reactivity or acute systemic toxicity, based on biocompatibility testing as defined by ISO 10993:1.Medical-grade resins are available worldwide in a range of gamma-stabilized colors.
This story is reprinted from material from Solvay, with editorial changes made by Materials Today. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent those of Elsevier.
