
Case study
Biocompatible Makrolon® houses new surgical device
Previously, surgeons had to subjectively determine how much pressure to apply to a knee implant during surgery. Now there’s a specialized device that provides real-time data, so they can adjust pressure exactly: the OrthoSensor™ Knee Balancer - with biocompatible Makrolon® Rx1851 polycarbonate housing.
Case study · March 29, 2022
Identify a medical grade polycarbonate for surgical devices
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Discover and provide a strong material for the OrthoSensor™ Knee Balancer, a revolutionary and intelligent orthopedic device with sensors and wireless technology that provides data to surgeons during surgery. The OrthoSensor™ enables them to optimize the positioning and balance of implants.

Make sure the material is color capable
In addition to being strong, impact-resistant and biocompatible, OrthoSensor, Inc. (opens in a new tab) needed their device available in four transparent colors, each indicating a specific surgical size. They also wanted an experienced partner capable of providing technical support for the development of their product line.

An approved medical polycarbonate with customizable color
Our biocompatible Makrolon® Rx1851 medical grade resin provided the flow, lubricity, easy release and strength our customer was looking for. The material is compliant with FDA-modified 10993, Part 1 standards and, importantly, also allows custom color formulations. In this case it was four translucent colors – brown, green, blue and yellow – each indicating a specific surgical size. During development, we worked closely with OrthoSensor’s molder to ensure the highest standards were met.
Why Makrolon® Rx1851 was the right solution for the OrthoSensor™ Knee Balancer
Customizable color:
Different color options available according to product requirements.
Biocompatible:
Satisfies major bio-compatibility requirements, including ISO 10993-1.
Light & strong:
Makrolon® Rx1851 is exceptionally tough and durable with high impact strength.
Chemical resistant:
Stands up to harsh disinfectants.
Ease of use:
Good flow and lubricity allow for fine product detail and easy mold release.
