MedShape Solutions has received a small business innovation research (SBIR) Phase I grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to utilise the grant in the research and development (R&D) of a shape memory polymer device for meniscal repair.
MedShape’s R&D team will use the company’s proprietary shape memory biopolymer capabilities to develop a meniscal repair solution which can stabilize the knee and protect the articular cartilage on the surfaces of the femur and tibia.
MedShape post-doctoral research scientist Kathryn Smith said Meniscal repair devices must be simple to insert arthroscopically, be strong and flexible, and be able to maintain good apposition between the tissue surfaces throughout the healing process for a successful outcome.
"We are qualified to address the challenges and deliver a superior implant associated with minimally-invasive meniscal repair procedures," Smith said.