Commercialisation of innovative composite polymer networks of dual responsiveness for medical applications

Biomaterial of the Future in Fracture Treatment

Bone fractures around the wrist are among the most common and burdensome orthopedic injuries. Traditional treatment requires bone reconstruction stabilized with metal plates and wires. Once the bone has fused, the metal elements are removed during an additional surgical procedure, which increases the risk of complications and lengthens the patient's recovery time.

Prof. Mirosława El Fray from the West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin is developing technology that could revolutionize the treatment protocol for wrist fractures. The project led by the researcher concerns the development of an innovative, resorbable material for the stabilization of distal radius fractures. The innovative biomaterial allows for fracture stabilization in a minimally invasive manner without the need for a second surgery. Introduced in liquid form to the fracture site using an applicator, it is cured using UV light and body temperature. Over time, the material undergoes biodegradation, eliminating the problem of permanent metal implants. Such a solution not only significantly shortens recovery time, but also reduces pain, the risk of complications, and visible surgical scars. An additional benefit of eliminating a second surgical procedure is easing the burden on the healthcare system.

The promising research results opened the door for Prof. El Fray to the first edition of PRIME - a project by the Foundation for Polish Science supporting the commercialization of science, funded by the European Funds for a Modern Economy (FENG) program. Together with Konrad Frontczak (Business Leader) and Paweł Żebrowski (Technology Transfer Manager), she is now developing the commercialization competencies necessary to bring her invention from the laboratory to the operating room.

"This is a completely new approach to fracture treatment - instead of metal implants, we propose a material that biodegrades naturally in the body. The advantage for the patient is less trauma, faster return to mobility, and no need for a second operation. This technology has potential not only in orthopedics, but also in treating other musculoskeletal conditions where tissue regeneration or stabilization is required," emphasizes Prof. Mirosława El Fray.

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PRIME is the only "tailor-made" acceleration program for the transfer of knowledge and technology for scientists and their research organizations in Poland, offering support for an individual commercialization path for innovative technologies. The program provides the opportunity to both develop competencies (e.g., training) and acquire practical skills (e.g., talks with potential recipients). For the authors of the best ideas, individualized support is provided to implement the chosen commercialization path. The PRIME project is financed by the European Funds for a Modern Economy (#FENG) program. The project is implemented by the Foundation for Polish Science (#FNP).