Biodesign Finland Fellows Jani Kuula and Eija Raussi-Lehto and Prof. Orlando Rojas Research Group have received funding from Business Finland. In the funded project, the potential of a new biomaterial for an implantable mesh is researched and paths for commercialization are studied. The mesh is to be used to treat pelvic organ prolapses.
In the Western world, approximately 700,000 pelvic floor operations are performed annually. One third out of these operations are done using a mesh (often polypropylene). The current products have several drawbacks, they cause incompatibility issues with human tissue, resulting in pain, infections, etc. Several product lines have been banned and withdrawn from market. The new biomaterial has been found to be non-toxic and to have high potential as an implant.
The research group of prof. Orlando Rojas has world class experience and know-how to develop new biomaterials. The developed method allows individual customization of the mesh and a plastic-free solution.
Project accumulates new know-how and understanding of biomaterials and know-how for the commercialization of new medtech innovations. The invention has several potential commercialization paths.
The project team contains technical, commercial, and medical experts. The invention has high impact on the standards of living of thousands of women worldwide. The need for the solution was found in HUS Naistenklinikka in 2019 during the immersion phase of the Biodesign Finland project.
More information: Jani Kuula, jani.a.kuula@aalto.fi, +358 50 475 0275