FEFU: X-ray translucent fixer to repair bone defects

2023: Product Announcement

On July 10, 2023, Russian researchers from the Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) announced the development of an X-ray transparent mini-fixer by analogy with the Ilizarov apparatus. It is assumed that the solution will allow better control and analysis of the treatment process for patients with injuries and diseases of the bones and joints.

Ilizarov's apparatus consists of rings in which spokes passed through bone are fixed. The rings are connected to each other with the help of special rods, which can regulate the desired stretching or compression of bone fragments. This allows you to influence the process of fusion of fractures and gradually eliminate complex deformations of bones and joints. In the manufacture of the device, metal is used. However, this does not allow X-rays to pass. In other words, the supports of the apparatus can cover the image of bones and joints, which makes it difficult to control and analyze treatment processes. The new development eliminates this drawback.

Ilizarov's metal apparatus (top) and a mini-fixer made of polymers from FEFU scientists (bottom) on X-ray

Scientists from the laboratory of extreme materials and special-purpose products of FEFU have developed an X-ray transparent medical device and assembled a bone mini-fixer from it. The design uses polymer composites that are capable of transmitting X-rays. Moreover, the device is comparable to metal in terms of strength characteristics. The updated device has become easier compared to traditional solutions, and its production technology is easier and cheaper. In addition, it is possible to individualize the size and shape of the article, taking into account the clinical situation, complexion and age of the patient.

We have proposed a non-toxic composition and a method for producing a reinforced polymer composite, taking into account the required properties of its operation. All trials, including clinical trials in patients, confirmed the full performance of the development. Now we are working on certification and registration of a medical device, - said the head of the scientific project "Development of technologies for creating extreme materials for special-purpose products and chemical biomaterial science" of the "Priority 2030" program of FEFU, candidate of chemical sciences Evgeny Papynov.[1]

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