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BioMedical Enterprises introduces shape-memory device for hammertoes
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BioMedical Enterprises, Inc. (BME), announced in a press release the nationwide launch of the HammerLock Intramedullary Nitinol Fixation System for use in the correction of hammertoes.
A hammertoe is a permanent and sometimes painful deformity of the proximal joint of the 2nd through 5th toes. 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, according to the BME release.
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 device 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, the company said. Its spring-like behavior then compresses the joint long-term resulting in an optimal environment for healing.
"The new BME HammerLock intramedullary implant has improved my patient outcomes for hammertoe surgery," Jeremy McVay, DPM, stated in the release. “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."