A month ago we wrote about an innovative bone injection system that uses a light sensitive material to harden crevices it was injected into. This week IlluminOss, the East Providence, Rhode Island company that developed the Photodynamic Bone Stabilization System, has announced receiving the European CE mark for the technology. The system uses a balloon and catheter that is inserted into a bone cavity. The balloon is then filled with the specialty compound and activated to harden using light supplied through the catheter.
From the announcement:
With traditional methods of treating fractures, often a large incision has to be made; and plates and screws inserted to stabilize the fracture. There may be extensive soft tissue damage; the patient has limited or no mobility initially which may lead to temporary or permanent stiffness; and the patient may experience severe pain.
The IlluminOss Photodynamic Bone Stabilization System requires just a small 4.5mm pathway into the bone to stabilize it. A small diameter balloon catheter and light fiber are inserted into the intramedullary canal of the bone. A photo sensitive, liquid monomer is then infused into the balloon. The monomer expands the balloon to fit the contours of the interior of the bone, aiding in the reduction of the fracture. Then the light source is activated, converting the liquid monomer into a hardened polymer within 90 seconds. The minimal skin incision is then closed.
Unlike other methods of fracture treatment, the IlluminOss Photodynamic Bone Stabilization System is designed to enable the patient to have immediate joint mobility post procedure without the need for immobilization. Due to the minimally invasive approach, soft tissue injury is virtually eliminated. Having immediate mobility minimizes the potential
for tendon adhesions and a tenolysis procedure to remove them.
Press release: IlluminOss™ Photodynamic Bone Stabilization System Receives CE Mark
Flashback: Light Used to Harden Injectable Bone Compound in First Clinical Case
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