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INDUSTRY NEWS

Now used for orthopaedic sutures in its fibre form, ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene from DSM is also suitable for use in total joint arthroplasty.

DSM Biomedical (Heerlen, Netherlands) has launched an initiative to explore in­novative orthopaedic applications of ultrahigh molec­ular weight polyethy­lene (UHMWPE) for use in total joint arthroplasty and other medical applications. In the upcoming years, DSM Biomedical plans on investing in a research and development programme focussed on UHMWPE grades with optimized material properties. “This development is in line with our intent to build a portfolio of biomedical products [to] address the medical needs of the future,” explains Steve Hartig, vice president of the company.

The firm is already active in the orthopaedic market with Dyneema Purity UHMWPE, a fibre specifically developed for medical applications. The material was recently shown to promote better tissue formation than traditional polyester in orthopaedic suture applications. In independent testing at a lab run by NAMSA (Northwood, OH, USA), braids made of the material exhibited improved fibroconnective tissue formation as well as reduced irritation and lower inflammation compared with polyester. The results of the testing indicate a decreased risk of rejection over the long term, according to the company. The fibre, which the company touts as the world’s strongest, has been tested in accordance with ISO standards for genotoxicity, cytotoxicity, sensitization, haemocompatibility, and mutagenicity. To learn more, contact DSM Biomedical, P.O. Box 18, 6160 MD Geleen, Netherlands; phone: +31 46 47 60278; Internet: www.dsm.com.