Aberdeen Royal Infirmary starts a study using bioabsorbable ActivaScrew™ to treat syndesmotic injuries

Aberdeen Royal Infirmary starts an investigator-initiated clinical study to assess syndesmosis fixation and maintenance of reduction with bioabsorbable ActivaScrews™ (Bioretec Ltd.).

The principal investigator of the study, Prof. Alan Johnstone (Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Scotland, UK) asserts, "The ActivaScrew™ bioabsorbable screws maintain mechanical strength for at least eight weeks and allow gradual load transfer during resorption. The implant has the potential to be ideal for the fixation of syndesmotic injuries since it allows healing in a reduced position, then undergoes resorption while allowing the small increments of movement that normally happen at the syndesmosis. On top of that, it eliminates the need for metalwork removal in a second operation."

The ActivaScrew™ is a fully bioabsorbable orthopaedic implant made from poly L-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA). The implant has excellent biocompatibility and is available in sizes 2.0, 2.7, 3.5 and 4.5. The study features the long, fully threaded 4.5mm ActivaScrew™, and the implant will be cut flush along cortical bone. ActivaScrew™ has a CE mark approval and FDA clearance and is currently available in over 40 countries.

"The syndesmosis fracture fixation is an excellent indication for the ActivaScrew™ since it is not as rigid as conventional metallic implants. It allows micromovement of the fixation and therefore enhances natural healing of the tissues. As the ActivaScrew™ is used as a positioning screw, the implant can be cut to the desired length," states Kimmo Lähteenkorva, Chief Technology Officer at Bioretec.