In the world of orthopaedic medical device manufacturing, precision and reliability are essential. At Meridian Medical, we are committed to our role as a leading subcontract manufacturer of single-use medical devices, with a rich history of delivering exceptional orthopaedic disposables to some of the UK’s most renowned companies.
What are orthopaedic devices?
Orthopaedic devices are medical tools designed to treat or prevent musculoskeletal injuries or disorders owing to trauma, congenital conditions and degenerative disease. They support or replace muscles, cartilage, joints or bones, as well as the rehabilitation process post surgery.
When it comes to single use, there are several types of orthopaedic devices, including:
- disposable surgical instruments
- orthopaedic implants such as screws, plates, pins and rods designed for temporary use
- disposable casting materials such as splints and casts
- arthroscopic accessories such as burs, disposable shavers and blades used for keyhole surgery to treat joints
- bone graft delivery devices such as cannulas and disposable syringes
The single-use nature of orthopaedic devices poses several benefits for hospitals and their professional orthopaedic healthcare professionals and patients alike. The adoption of disposable orthopaedic medical devices in the healthcare industry has reduced the overheads resulting from the use of sterile rooms, manual labour, breakage and logistics that are typically involved with traditional or multi-use orthopaedic devices. The assured sterility of single-use orthopaedic devices enhances safety, removing risk of cross-contamination and infection, thereby safeguarding patient safety. The procedure specific designs of such tools ensures consistent quality and performance, reducing potential for malfunction.
How has orthopaedic care changed over the years?
Advancements in orthopaedic care have led to better clinical outcomes, shorter recovery times, and improved quality of life for orthopaedic patients. In particular, ortho care has seen a shift towards more minimally invasive procedures, supported by the innovation and development of more specialised orthopaedic instruments and equipment. Greater personalisation of ortho care is now available, thanks to custom implants, patient specific instrumentation and 3D printing technologies that improve fit, function and longer term outcomes. Moreover, ortho care has become increasingly data-driven when it comes to decision making owing to greater adoption of digital health platforms, electronic health records, devices with in-built sensors to collect and analyse both device performance and patient outcomes.
Design innovation
3D printing, CAD (Computer Aided Design), the adoption of biocompatible materials to avoid adverse reactions, as well as simplifying devices for single-use to reduce the assembly time in the operating room have all contributed to the evolution of orthopaedic device design.
At Meridian Medical, innovation is at the heart of what we do. We continuously invest in research and development to stay at the forefront of orthopaedic technology. By embracing cutting-edge materials, including polyether ether ketone (PEEK, an implant grade polymer that can be used for a variety of permanent implants), polycarbonate resins (such as Calibre Megaard,a material specifically formulated for Gamma sterilisation) and TOPAS® COC (which produces an ultra-tough and glass-like finish, also suitable for sterilisation), we strive to push the boundaries of what’s possible in orthopaedic device design and functionality.
We adopt the same innovation-driven approach to manufacturing techniques, which has seen us embrace state-of-the-art Fanuc injection moulding machines, UV cured adhesives and medical grade cyanoacrylates (fast acting adhesives), along with ultrasonic and radio frequency welding.
Greater precision in manufacturing
The advancements in robotics and automated manufacturing processes have helped to ensure high precision, consistency and efficiency in orthopaedics medical device manufacturing.
We have prioritised investing in and using ultra modern technology and manufacturing techniques to guarantee that every orthopaedic medical device we manufacture meets the performance specification expected by orthopaedic healthcare professionals and their patients.
Meridian Medical is well versed in using programmable Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) with CAD to compare and verify that parts match the original specifications supplied to us, plus validated injection mould tooling and process optimised manufacturing to ensure products consistently meet specifications. Additionally, our expert team uses mecmesin force testing equipment to determine the physical strength of our orthopaedic medical devices.
Quality Assurance and standardisation
Quality is non-negotiable when it comes to the design and manufacture of orthopaedic medical devices. The development of industry standards and best practices, as well as rigorous testing protocols ensures all OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) adhere to the highest levels of safety, efficacy and reliability.
At Meridian, our rigorous quality assurance processes, as well as adherence to international regulatory standards, including ISO13485 and 21 CFR, guarantee the safety and reliability of every orthopaedic medical device that is produced for our customers.
Collaboration drives the future of orthopaedic care
In the dynamic world of orthopaedics, an unwavering commitment to quality, precision and innovation, as well as trust and transparency between manufacturer and healthcare professionals is essential when it comes to delivering superior patient care. Here at Meridian Medical, we dedicate teams to continuous improvement of device design and manufacture, as well as conducting or participating in regular audits and assessments to identify opportunities for further innovation and collaboration.
To find out more about how Meridian Medical can help you with your medical device manufacture, get in touch today by filling out our online form or contacting us on 01903 732344 or info@meridian-medical.com.
