Stryker Launches The Universal SMARTLock™ Hybrid MMF System

KALAMAZOO, Mich., March 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Stryker announced today the global commercial launch of the Universal SMARTLock^™ Hybrid MMF system. The Universal SMARTLock^™ Hybrid MMF system combines elements of both arch bars and MMF screws in an effort to bring the standard of care for maxillomandibular fixation (MMF) techniques into the 21st century.

In collaboration with inventor Jeffrey R. Marcus, MD, FAAP, FACS, Associate Vice-Chair of Surgery at Duke University, the Universal SMARTLock^™ Hybrid MMF system is designed to combine the strength and rigidity of arch bars with the safety and efficiency of MMF screws. "The Universal SMARTLock™ Hybrid MMF system is easy to apply, comfortable for the patients, and can impressively increase a surgeon's efficiency," said Michael D. Turner, DDS MD FACS, Associate Director of Oral & Maxillofacial surgery at Beth Israel and Jacobi Medical Center.

With nine potential points of fixation along the plate, posterior fixation and vector control are enhanced when compared to traditional MMF screws. The self-drilling, locking technology of the screws allows for purchase into both the bone and the plate for additional stability and also eliminates the need for interdental wiring that is required with arch bars.

"The Universal SMARTLock™ Hybrid MMF system is an effective and technically simple process that may change the surgical management of maxillary and mandibular fixation for all surgical specialties," said Dr. Jairo Bastidas, DMD, Deputy Director, OMFS at Montefiore Medical Center. "Closed reduction of the jaws can be accomplished with less exposure risk to the surgeon, decreased operative time and excellent skeletal stability. The Universal SMARTLock™ Hybrid MMF system is an innovation for the management of facial trauma."

"The Universal SMARTLock™ Hybrid MMF system represents our dedication to providing patients and physicians with the most advanced tools available to treat mandibular and maxillary fractures," said David Mercado, Vice President and General Manager of Stryker's CMF division. "Universal SMARTLock™ Hybrid MMF sets a new standard in maxillomandibular fixation. It's a patented design you will only find at Stryker."

The device has been granted 510 (k) market clearance by the US Food and Drug Administration and is also available in international markets where it has been cleared for sales.    

View an animation of the SMARTLock Hybrid MMF System on Stryker's YouTube channel.

About Stryker
Stryker is one of the world's leading medical technology companies and is dedicated to helping healthcare professionals perform their jobs more efficiently while enhancing patient care. The Company offers a diverse array of innovative medical technologies, including reconstructive, medical and surgical, and neurotechnology and spine products to help people lead more active and more satisfying lives. For more information about Stryker, please visit www.stryker.com.

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Stryker Corporation
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SOURCE Stryker