mm.X implant technology


Founded within the environment of RWTH Aachen University, we make use of top level research and technology from leading research institutions in the field of medicine, materials research, production technology and surface technology. The implants are developed, tested and manufactured in Germany.

The implant material has been successfully tested several times in preclinical studies and laboratory chemistry for biocompatibility. The hydrogen produced by the degradation process is reduced to a minimum level that is tolerated by the body. This is made possible through a special alloying process and a surface modification.


Magnesium as biomaterial

Magnesium is suitable for use as an implant material. It combines the strength of a metal with the ability to be bioabsorbed. Its mechanical properties are similar to those of cortical bone. As a result, the implants are able to safely stabilize fractures up to the point of healing. Compared to titanium or steel implants, the negative effect of stress shielding is eliminated.

Unlike polymer materials or bio ceramics, magnesium is not degraded by an inflammatory reaction but by a physiological process, where the magnesium is converted into magnesium oxide and hydrogen gas. The two reaction products are safely processed by the body and an intact bone structure is formed at the former implant site.

mm_biomaterial-mm
mm_legierung_3

Alloy production

In the field of medical implants, the base alloy used lays the foundation for the mechanical strength and the control of the bioabsorption rate of the implants. We use innovative specialized alloy systems that are optimized in terms of mechanical strength and degradation behavior.

The process from the raw material to biocompatible, bioabsorbable alloy was developed in a long-term research effort. Currently, we use two alloys: One magnesium-rare earth alloy and one magnesium-calcium-zinc alloy.


Implant production

Through the use of special tools in implant manufacturing, we achieve highest accuracies and no influence on the bioabsorption. Innovative use of additive production (“3D printing”) and state-of-the-art 5-axis milling additionally enables us to realize customized, patient specific solutions with our partners.

The combination of the two technologies allows medical magnesium to develop bioabsorbable implant designs and solutions for all medical indications, where patients benefit from bioabsorbable implants.

mm_qualität

Quality and performance

medical magnesium was founded to develop products based on leading research. To develop and manufacture our products we rely exclusively on products and solutions with verifiable high quality and make sure that our partners share the same understanding of a functional and safe product.

All steps of the production chain are carried out according to international standards within Germany. We are in close exchange with our network of researchers and manufacturing experts to constantly improve the implants in every possible way.


Innovative surface conversion

For optimal tissue integration and controlled bone transformation, the surface of the implants is transformed into a ceramic, mainly consisting of magnesium oxide using an innovative process. This ceramic surface creates the dull grey look of the implants. By decelerating the corrosion, the primary stability phase of the implant can be adjusted.

The combination of alloy and surface technology ensures that during the initial fracture healing phase there is no adverse influence from hydrogen gas evolution.

mm_oberflaeche-2