Our Capabilities
- Static & Dynamic Mechanical Testing
- Wear Simulation Testing & Particle Analysis
- Implant & Instrument Design Consultation
- Implant/Explant Fracture & Failure Analysis
- 3D Scanning & Reconstruction
- 3D Printing & Prototyping
- Finite Element Analysis
- Regulatory Approval Consultation
- Customized preclinical testing and protocol development
- Cadaver Labs with Fluoroscopy, X-Ray Imaging, and Live Video & Sound Feed
The extensive capabilities of our laboratory makes us ideally suited to conduct pre-clinical and clinical investigations of the latest medical devices and developing technologies. Please contact admin@forbones.org to discuss your research & development needs.
Our Development Process
Identify Need
- Literature Review
- Data Collection
Design & Develop
- 3D Modeling / Reconstructing
- 3D Prototyping
- Finite Element Analysis
Test Device
- Mechanical Testing
- Materials Analysis & Characterization
- Cadaveric & Pre-Clinical Animal Trials
Submit Data
- Regulatory Preparation & Submission
Deliver Product
- Delivery of Approved & Finalized Product
Track Record of Innovation
One focus area of the laboratory is the use of pyrolytic carbon (pyrocarbon) implants for joint resurfacing. Recently, a pyrocarbon implant replacement (PIR) system for treatment of focal and osteochondral defects of the medial femoral condyle of the knee received CE mark approval. The PIR system is a single-component articular resurfacing implant with hydroxyapatite (HA) coated bone-contacting surfaces for fixation. Previously, the laboratory produced the pyrocarbon small finger joint replacements in conjunction with Ascension Orthopaedics, LLC.
Another major area of focus is the development of magnet technologies in prosthetic attachment mechanisms and in spinal devices. Transmission of reaction loads from a traditional, socket-based prosthesis inflicts abnormal stresses on the soft tissues of the residual limb. Amputations alter the normal loading path through the skeleton and the atypical normal and shear stresses can cause skin breakdown and necrosis. Our proposed system would alleviate soft-tissue breakdown and allow for osseoperception at the residual limb.
FOR also has a considerable background in spinal devices, including the development of pedicle screws, interbody fusion systems, and motion preservation devices for the cervical and lumbar spine. Further, FOR has substantial research history in osteoconductive and osteoinductive bone grafts and bone graft substitutes, porous and HA-porous coated implants, and dental implant systems.
While FOR has a strong and successful history in joint resurfacing and replacement devices, as well as devices for the spine, our expertise also extends to other musculoskeletal systems, small and large animal defect models, dental implants and maxillofacial/mandibular defects, and implant materials and coatings. Our staff is well-versed in biomaterials and biomechanics research, testing, and development, including explant and explant failure analysis.