Text by Charmaine A. Lingdas
A team of researchers led by Dr. Emmanuel P. Estrella from the Institute of Clinical Epidemiology of the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Engineer Jason Pechardo from the UPM Surgical Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory (SIBoL) recently introduced the iFix project, a groundbreaking initiative focuses on the design and fabrication of external fixators, addressing the critical need for affordable, high-quality solutions in the Philippines.
Bone Fractures and External Fixators
A global study on the burden of bone fractures in 204 countries and territories underscores the urgency of this issue. In 2019, lower leg fractures involving the patella, tibia, fibula, or ankle were the most prevalent and burdensome. The global incidence of new fracture cases reached 178 million in 2019, marking a 33.4% increase since 1990.
External fixators are medical devices used to stabilize and hold fractured bones in place from outside the body. They consist of metal rods and screws that are inserted into the bone through the skin and connected to an external frame. These devices are crucial in the treatment of severe fractures, especially open fractures, where the bone breaks through the skin. They provide the necessary support for the bone to heal properly while allowing for adjustments to maintain alignment throughout the recovery process.
“External fixators are essential for the initial treatment of open fractures,” explained Pechardo during his presentation. “However, there is limited access to quality and affordable options in the Philippines. Our goal with the iFix Project is to fill this gap by providing cost-effective yet high-quality external fixators.”
The iFix Project
The iFix Project distinguishes itself with its innovative approach, incorporating less complicated components and utilizing inherent material flex for quick-connects to rods, courtesy of a petal-like hinge. This design allows for hand-tightening and maintains the same level of adjustability as the widely recognized Hoffman fixators.
“Our current design has fewer components, which reduces costs while ensuring the device’s functionality and reliability,” Pechardo elaborated. “We aim to offer something between the high-end models that are often too expensive and the more affordable ones that lack quality.”
The iFix team has tested various prototypes, and has a pending patent application on the design and features of the device. Their next steps include partnering with local manufacturing companies to produce the iFix system entirely in the Philippines, thereby boosting local industry and ensuring accessibility.
“We are currently exploring options to license the product to bring it to market,” said Pechardo. “We hope to collaborate with local manufacturers to create a product that Filipinos can rely on.”
The iFix Project not only promises to improve patient outcomes but also aims to position the Philippines as a significant player in the global market for medical devices. The global external fixator market size was valued at $850 million in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 4% from 2021 to 2028.
“We want the Philippines to join the ranks of global leaders in medical device innovation,” Pechardo emphasized. “By providing affordable and quality solutions, we can make a significant impact on healthcare locally and internationally.”
For more information about the iFix Project and its future developments, stay tuned to updates from the UP Manila Surgical Innovation and Biotechnology Laboratory (SIBoL) and the UP Manila Technology Transfer and Business Development Office (TTBDO).
Contact: UP Manila Technology Transfer and Business Development Office
2/F UP Manila Main Building, Joaquin Gonzales Compound,
Padre Faura Street, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
Open Mondays to Fridays 8:00 AM to 12:00 NN & 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Tel.: (632) 88141293 | Email: ttbdo.upm@up.edu.ph
