Xilloc, a company that specializes in patient-specific, 3D printed medical implants, has acquired fellow Dutch medical device company Orthopedie Technologie Nijmegen (OTN) for an undisclosed sum.
As a result of the business deal, OTN’s products will now be added to Xilloc’s product portfolio, an addition the companies say is a perfect “click” between the two.
Products that “click”
Founded in 2009, OTN produces specialist medical devices that promote the connection between natural bone and artificial implants, otherwise known as osseointegration.
OTN’s flagship product is the Click Safety Adapter, a device that makes it easier to attach, remove and adjust an artificial limb.
Xilloc products on the other hand are custom-made on a case-by-case basis for implantation, surgical planning, and making precision cuts to the bone.
Improving patient care
Merging the two technologies, Xilloc will be offering a new Click Safety Adapter that connects directly into the skeleton of a patient. This new implant will give improved stability to artificial limbs when walking, an introduction that will improve the lives of patients.
“In the last 50 years I have successfully realized my dreams and the world leading company in Click Safety Adapters,” comments Harry Jansen, founder and CEO of OTN who is to retire from the position.
“I’m proud to have found my equals in Xilloc and its Team, and Maikel to whom I’m leaving my life’s work in trust to further help patients around the world.”
3D printing in your bones
Historically, 3D printed products have had promising results for osseointegration and bone regrowth.
With the help of Renishaw, Morriston Hospital in Wales successfully completed a full reconstruction of a patient’s jaw. In America, the FDA has also cleared numerous 3D printed implants for the hip and spine.
And one study from Texas A&M University (TAMU) promises to one make bone grafts as easy as a trip to the dentist.
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Featured image shows 3D model showing attachment of Xilloc’ 3D printed full jaw implant. Image via XIlloc
