Hoosier companies partner on medical device component

WARSAW, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) — Two Indiana companies are teaming up on the development of a metal technology to be used in medical devices. Warsaw-based Nextremity Solutions Inc. says it has entered into an exclusive supply agreement with Fort Wayne Metals, which will provide access to a specialty magnesium-based alloy that will be used in orthopedic implants.

Nextremity says the partnership will allow it to quickly bring a resorbable medical-grade technology to the marketplace, both in the U.S. and around the world.

The company says currently, orthopedic metal implants are typically made from stainless steel, cobalt chrome, or titanium. Such implants can often stay inside the patients for the rest of their lives or until a surgeon determines they can be removed.

Nextremity cites a study in the Journal of Magnesium and Alloys, which says combining magnesium alloys with biodegradable polymer material has “good mechanical compatibility and can provide higher initial stability and initial support.” The company adds magnesium has been shown to increase the rate of bone formation as well.

“We see great value in this resorbable metal technology and its ability to advance the standard of care, allow patients to eventually be implant-free, while reducing the need for hardware removal and the additional burden placed on our healthcare system,” said Ryan Schlotterback, chief technology officer for Nextremity.

Nextremity says it plans to use the material technology to develop an entire orthopedic product portfolio, including research and development, obtaining regulatory clearance, and establishing manufacturing operations.