Johnson & Johnson's DePuy Synthes partnered recently with Tissue Regeneration Systems to develop three-dimensional printing technologies, according to a Stacy Page Online report.
The partnership is part of a larger long-term strategy Johnson & Johnson announced in May to grow the company. Here are five things to know about DePuy Synthes adding a three-dimensional printing service:
1. The partners plan to develop customizable implants with DePuy Synthes expertise and market leadership coupled with Tissue Regeneration Systems' knowledge and development experience. The resorbable implants will be for large bone segmental defect treatment in trauma and orthopedic oncology.
2. Tissue Regeneration Systems had its first FDA-approved device — a coated, bioresorbable skeleton reconstruction implant designed to fix burr holes made by neurosurgery — which received 510(k) clearance in August 2013, according to the MedCity News report. The technology could be advantageous because it doesn't require metal screws for attachment.
3. Three-dimensional printing technology allows for customized and personalized structures generated in a more streamlined process. The technology is also capable of producing porous metal, according to a HealthPoint Capital report. The new technology could be a significant addition to the company's orthopedics line. In the first quarter of 2014, DePuy Synthes reported a 3 percent decline in the United States total spine sales and a 1 percent decline in worldwide spine sales.
A 10 percent increase in the United States trauma business and a 6 percent increase in worldwide trauma offset some of that decline. The company had relatively flat hip and knee sales — 1 percent and 3 percent growth — internationally.
4. The agreement allows for potential development opportunities in the future for a range of DePuy Synthes applications. Johnson & Johnson also announced a series of research and development collaborations and investments last week with early-stage novel biotechnology and medical device companies. J&J invested nearly $1.8 billion in research and development last year and are positioned for continued growth. The company recently launched several products and has more than 30 major product filings in the works through 2016.
"Our businesses are uniquely positioned to continue helping patients while also leading the industry by capitalizing on our breadth, depth and scale," said Vice President, Finance and CFO Dominic J. Caruso, in a news release. "We are developing innovative products and working with healthcare systems on customer-focused solutions to ultimately improve outcomes for patients."
5. In May, Johnson & Johnson released the GLOBAL UNITE Anatomic Shoulder System; the CORAIL revision hip system; and the TRUMATCH resection guide for the ATTUNE rotating platform knee. The orthopedics segment continues to lead in the worldwide market and DePuy Synthes is realizing revenue and cost synergies from integration.
However, earlier this week the company announced layoffs at its Warsaw, Ind., location. The company said layoffs would impact less than 2 percent of the 23,000 person global workforce.
More Articles on Orthopedic Devices:
Purdue University Joins OrthoWorx
Will Stryker Make a Move for Smith & Nephew? 5 Key Thoughts
Medacta USA Opens New Headquarters in Chicago: 5 Key Takeaways