IlluminOss Medical announces it has reached the important benchmark of having placed 10,000 of its patient conforming implants designed for the treatment of geriatric fractures.
The IlluminOss implants are delivered through a minimally-invasive surgical procedure which provides fracture stability, allowing patients to quickly regain mobilization and return to their activities of daily living.
The elderly population is growing rapidly with a 71% increase expected by 2050. Many geriatric patients have fragile bones and falls are common. Annually, an estimated 1.5 million people in this age group suffer "fragility fractures." These injuries are difficult to treat with conventional surgical devices such as metal plates and screws because the bone is too brittle for secure fixation. Alternatively, nonsurgical treatment with a sling or a cast may require months of healing-time which limits activity. Immobility has been associated with a downhill spiral in patient health.
IlluminOss's technology involves expanding a balloon-like implant inside a fractured bone by infusing the implant with a light-curing liquid. Blue light is then transmitted to the implant via an optical fiber to convert the liquid into a polymer, creating a strong core within the bone. This stabilizes the fracture and allows for a fast return to daily activities. Some patients are able to regain use of their injured limb the day of surgery. If additional fracture fixation is necessary, the strength supplied by the IlluminOss implant allows surgical plates and screws to be securely fastened into the bone.
"The IlluminOss implant can augment delicate bone to support and stabilize fractures. Once the implant is within the bone, the blue light starts a chemical reaction to create a strong polymer. It turns fragile bone into strong bone," says Dr. Steve Morgan, an orthopedic trauma surgeon in Colorado. "I found the IlluminOss implant minimizes complications in challenging fractures such as a geriatric humerus."
Dr. Michael Bradley, CEO and orthopedic surgeon of Ortho Rhode Island states, "IlluminOss is a cutting-edge technology that has redefined the treatment of fractures. It offers almost instant strength and stability to the fracture site through a minimally invasive approach, allowing a fast return to activities of daily life."
For more information please visit www.illuminoss.com.
