ANDOVER, Mass., March 9, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Smith & Nephew’s /quotes/comstock/13*!snn/quotes/nls/snn (SNN 52.16, -0.31, -0.59%) /quotes/comstock/23s!a:sn. (UK:SN. 695.50, -0.50, -0.07%) Endoscopy Division today announced the introduction of the FAST-FIX(TM) 360 Meniscal Repair System, a next generation device that applies novel engineering to provide surgeons with easy implant deployment, speed, and superior fixation strength with minimal disruption to the meniscus. FAST-FIX 360 is among products that will be featured at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) annual meeting, which begins tomorrow in New Orleans.
The FAST-FIX System, first launched in April 2001, offers the strength of the industry’s “gold standard” -- a vertical or horizontal mattress suture stitch -- but does not require the open incision traditionally associated with meniscal repair.
The new design utilizes 360 degree actuation, which enables surgeons to deploy implants in any hand position -- vertically, horizontally on either side of the meniscus -- with a fast, smooth advancing motion. The spring-action design facilitates the advancement of each implant into the meniscal capsule.
“The state-of-the-art 360 degree active deployment improvement to the FAST-FIX 360 Meniscal Repair System is one of the most significant features,” said Nick Sgaglione, M.D., Associate Chairman and Program Director, Dept. of Orthopaedic Surgery, North Shore Long Island Jewish Medical Center. “This allows for easier deployment of the implants and minimal needle exposure behind the meniscal capsule.”
Smaller implants and a pre-tied, self-sliding knot made of 2-0 ULTRABRAID(TM) Suture create smaller needle insertions, reducing disruption to the meniscus. Additionally, because both implants are enclosed, it allows the surgeon to reposition the needle as necessary for optimal suture placement.
Lastly, a low-profile, stiffer needle shaft improves surgeons control while enabling access and visibility to hard-to-reach areas of the meniscus. A new built-in, adjustable depth limiter also reduces the number of steps required to perform the procedure.
“In line with our strategy of investing for growth, the FAST-FIX 360 Meniscal Repair System is one of a number of premier arthroscopic repair devices that will be launching at AAOS this week,” said Carl Vause, Vice President, Repair Marketing, Smith & Nephew Endoscopy.
Contact: Joe Metzger SVP, Corporate Communications Smith & Nephew Endoscopy (978) 749-1330 joe.metzger@smith-nephew.com
