US-based medical technology company Enovis has unveiled its Scandinavian Total Ankle Replacement (STAR Ankle), with the new e+ Polyethylene insert.
The e+ Polyethylene contains the free radical-neutralising antioxidant vitamin E, which resists oxidation and helps maintain consistent wear rates and stable mechanical properties over time.
In contrast, other highly crosslinked polyethylenes are remelted during manufacturing to neutralise free radicals, which reduce their mechanical strength by up to 12%, said Enovis.
Enovis foot and ankle president and general manager Gary Justak said: “With e+ Polyethylene, we uphold our commitment to the advancement of our total ankle portfolio, merging full oxidative resistance with the time-tested design of the STAR Ankle.
“Building upon the proven success of the STAR Ankle epitomises our culture of advancing foot and ankle solutions and elevating patient treatment options. We don’t just set the standard, we redefine it.”
According to the company, STAR Ankle is the first and only US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved mobile-bearing ankle system with e+ Polyethylene.
STAR Ankle, integrated with e+ Polyethylene, will continue to enhance implant success, which has been used worldwide in more than 40,000 procedures across 37 years.
The new vitamin E-blended polyethylene insert will provide STAR Ankle with improved durability, stability, and longevity, said the medical technology company.
Reno Orthopaedic Centre foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon Gregory Lundeen said: “After an extensive clinical experience with this superior material in knee and shoulder implants, I expect improved patient outcomes through increased polyethylene longevity.
“This builds on the outstanding STAR Ankle long-term metal-component survival rates seen in multiple clinical studies.”
Last month, Enovis launched its one-tray AltiVate Reverse Glenoid System, featuring modular, augmented baseplates, to expand its AltiVate Reverse glenoid implant offering.
The AltiVate system has been designed based on the company’s central screw fixation design, which features a modular baseplate that provides neutral and 15° wedge options.
