Activities in the Medical Sector

The demand for solutions made of fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) in the medical sector is constantly increasing. FRP is suitable for medical applications particularly thanks to its biocompatibility, the possibility to adapt the stiffness, and its X-ray transparency. In recent years, the IVW has developed promising products in this area, both in the field of implant technology and in the field of therapeutic devices. For example, within the framework of an EU-funded project, a pedicle screw system made of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) was developed to increase patient comfort and improve post-operative follow-up care („HySpine“). The development of an aneurysm clip takes advantage of the radiolucency of fiber-reinforced plastic, so that the position of the implant can be checked using imaging techniques („InnoClip“). In the project “FIXTER”, a lowcost, easy-to-use closure system was developed for fixing the two halves of the sternum after a median sternotomy. In the orthopedic technology sector, a method was developed to produce individualized ankle orthoses using 3D printing processes and then reinforce them with thermoplastic fiber tapes („3Dprint2Fiber“).

IVW is currently working together with the RPTU on the “Citizen Science” project “BewegungsForscher” as part of the joint project “Offene Digitalisierungsallianz Pfalz”. During the project period from 2023 to 2027, everyday health tools will be developed. The project stands out for its intensive collaboration with citizens, who are involved in the development process as users, relatives, care staff, medical personnel stages of the project.