DSM Biomedical, a global leader in biomedical materials science, announced a step forward in its partnership with Ovesco Endoscopy. Ovesco has chosen to exclusively use Dyneema Purity® fiber for the OTSC system due to the material’s unique mechanical performance and proven biocompatibility, specifically the combination of high strength, low elongation and high pliability. With this partnership, DSM and Ovesco are creating more efficient treatment options for gastrointestinal haemorrhage and endoscopic digestive organ wall closure.

The over-the-scope-clipping system for flexible endoscopy, which has received FDA clearance for use in the US, is a superelastic Nitinol device used for compression and approximation of tissues in the human digestive tract. The OTSC clip is delivered by means of an applicator cap mounted to the tip of gastroscopes or colonoscopes. Due to its smart material properties, OTSC delivers constant force at the implantation site, enhancing the therapeutic effects of the clip. The strength and pliability of Dyneema Purity® fiber providesthe high tension forces required to apply the super elastic Nitinol clips.

"Ovesco’s OTSC system is a bold breakthrough in medical technology advancement and we have enjoyed partnering with a truly innovative company in the endoscopy market," said Bob Evans, global business director of biomaterials, DSM Biomedical. "As diversification continues to be a key driver of our business, the success of this device further demonstrates the broad capabilities of Dyneema Purity® fiber in medical implant applications."

"With the announcement of our FDA approval for the OTSC system in December 2010, we can continue fulfilling our primary mission of providing advanced treatments for complex conditions in the digestive tract and gastrointestinal organs," said Gunnar Anhock from Ovesco Endoscopy, "We are confident that using Dyneema Purity® fiber for its unique mechanical performance, specifically the high-strength, low elongation and high pliability within our OTSC technology, will enhance clip alignment and improve patient results."

This announcement precedes the start of MEDTEC Europe, where DSM will have two representatives participating in the conference’s Materials Session 101 on 22 March 2012, ‘Selecting and Using Materials for Innovative Medical Devices’. Claudia Vaz, business development manager at DSM, will chair the day’s session and colleague, Onko Jan Gelling, DSM RT&D manager, biomaterials, will present on new hydrophilic, non-fouling and antimicrobial coatings for medical devices. Conference attendees are encouraged visit the DSM booth, 6661, to learn more about the latest innovations in materials based solutions for the medical device and biopharmaceutical industries.