BioMedical Enterprises, Inc. Introduces the HammerLock(TM) Shape Memory Device for Hammertoes
A hammertoe is a permanent and sometimes painful deformity of the proximal joint of the 2nd through 5th toes. Hundreds of thousands of people seek treatment each year for this condition and surgical intervention is often necessary to bring relief to the patient. The most common correction method involves the use of a thin wire to stabilize the joint. This method, which leaves the wire exposed for several weeks, results in complications and is an inconvenience for the patient.
The BME HammerLock stabilizes the proximal joint of the toe without the need for exposed wires. Formed out of the biocompatible shape memory alloy Nitinol, the HammerLock is designed to change shape when exposed to body heat. After being placed internally across the joint in its closed, spear-like shape, the implant morphs as it warms to normal limb temperature to provide strong fixation of the proximal joint of the toe. Its spring-like behavior then compresses the joint long-term resulting in an optimal environment for healing.
Made by Texas-based BME, the only Nitinol small bone fixation manufacturer in the U.S., the HammerLock was carefully designed with the feedback of dozens of foot surgeons from across the country resulting in an advanced, robust implant that provides secure fixation. In addition, the implant's patent-pending storage and deployment system sets a new standard for quick, simple and precise insertion minimizing operating room time.
"The new BME HammerLock intramedullary implant has improved my patient outcomes for hammertoe surgery," says Dr. Jeremy McVay. "It is easy to implant and comes in a variety of sizes to better suit each patient. The superior design provides better compressive capabilities compared to others on the market."
Mr. Keith M Peeples, President and CEO of BME stated, "Patients and surgeons have asked for another new intramedullary device for the treatment of hammertoes and the BME HammerLock has proven to be an excellent next step. This is the first of many new products being delivered from the BME drawing board."
BioMedical Enterprises, Inc., (BME) originally founded as a biomedical research firm specializing in bone healing, is now a reconstructive bone fusion product company and the worldwide leader in the understanding of memory metal and its orthopedic applications. BME was the first company to introduce above body temperature shape changing memory metal staples to the U.S., the first to develop and patent a method of controlling their compressive forces and the only U.S.-based memory metal small bone implant manufacturer. For more information, visit www.bmeortho.com.
SOURCE BioMedical Enterprises, Inc.