Patent granted for electronic stimulation using BioSilicon

Global nanotechnology company pSivida has been granted its first patent in Korea.

The patent covers the electronic-based properties of BioSilicon in the stimulation of orthopaedic tissue repair and re-engineering where scaffolds are required to support new bone growth. The technology also has application for treatment of fractures that do not heal, such as 'bone non-union'.

A further key application is in management and monitoring of reconstructive orthopaedic or implant surgery. pSivida expects this new technology to have application in the attachment and integration of smart implants to bone. MEMS components such as strain gauges and accelerometers are currently under evaluation as monitors of hip and knee prostheses. Loosening is one of the major problems of hip replacement as it leads to both pain and further damage to nearby tissues. Current techniques such as radiography are not capable of revealing minimal loosening which provides early warning of implant-interface failure. Accelerometers attached to bone tissue can detect micro-movement between femur and prosthesis.

Korea is a key global player in the design and manufacture of micro-components for the electronics industry. This technology, based on BioSilicon provides the opportunity to capitalise on Korea's technology strengths as well as the higher margins associated with healthcare products.

pSivida managing director Gavin Rezos said: 'The global market for products enhancing bone growth and fusion is growing rapidly and this trend is likely to continue as the requirement for specialist management of a variety of orthopedic conditions increases.'

Korean Patent Number 488643 provides protection for silicon implants comprising tissue compatible and biodegradable silicon (BioSilicon). It further provides for electronic-based devices to facilitate the management of fractures, fusion and other related challenges in orthopedic therapy.

The pSivida Intellectual Property portfolio consists of 26 patent families, 30 granted patents and over 80 patent applications.