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SBIR Phase II: Shape Memory Polymer Based Orthopedic Fixation Devices

Award Information

Agency:
National Science Foundation 		Branch:
N/A 		Award ID:
84558 		Program Year/Program:
2008 / SBIR
Agency Tracking Number:
0635620 		Solicitation Year:
N/A 		Solicitation Topic Code:
N/A 		Solicitation Number:
N/A
Small Business Information
MEDSHAPE SOLUTIONS, INC.
1575 NORTHSIDE DR, STE 440 ATLANTA, GA 30318-4211
View profile »
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No
 
Phase 2
Fiscal Year: 2008
Title: SBIR Phase II: Shape Memory Polymer Based Orthopedic Fixation Devices
Agency: NSF
Contract: 0750247
Award Amount: $499,826.00
 

Abstract:

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II project includes the design, development and commercialization of shape memory polymer orthopedic soft-tissue fixation devices. Current soft tissue fixation devices are primarily metal or plastic screws used to attach tissue grafts to bone in repair of torn anterior cruciate ligaments (ACL). These threaded devices commonly damage the tendon during insertion; reducing the effectiveness of the surgery. Shape memory polymers are a superior solution in that they can provide a simpler, stronger, and less damaging fixation method for these tendon grafts. Essentially, a shape memory polymer device can be; (1) delivered into the body in a compacted and less invasive state, (2) self-deploy at body temperature and (3) do so without sharp edges that might damage the tissue. The proposed work has immediate commercial potential and direct societal benefit in the field of sports medicine with a significant market on the order of $210 million in ACL repair devices annually. Furthermore, the biomaterial developed for ACL reconstruction should have long-term impact on the 1.6MM orthopedic procedures performed each year to repair tendons and ligaments in knees, shoulders, and ankles and by reducing the invasiveness of surgery and improving the outcomes.

Principal Investigator:

Jack C. Griffis
MME
4042499156
jack.griffis@medshapesolutions.com

Business Contact:

Jack C. Griffis
MME
4042499156
jack.griffis@medshapesolutions.com
Small Business Information at Submission:

MedShape Solutions, Inc.
1575 Northside Drive Suite 440 Atlanta, GA 30318

EIN/Tax ID: 202989097
DUNS: N/A
Number of Employees:
Woman-Owned: No
Minority-Owned: No
HUBZone-Owned: No