CE approval for new nanotechnology-based bone matrix Ostim

Osartis, a company in which aap Implantate AG holds a 49% stake, has received CE approval for the new absorbable bone substitute material Ostim. Now the CE mark has been awarded, the wholly-owned aap subsidiary Mebio is to market the product. The wholly synthetic bone substitute represents a breakthrough by Obernburg-headquartered Osartis GmbH & Co. KG in the development of innovative medical products. Using nanotechnology, a technology based on tiny functional units, a calcium phosphate was developed that is very similar in composition to the mineral found in human bones. Ostim speeds up the generation of bone-building cells, thereby helping bones to regenerate. The new bone matrix can also be used for fractures of carrying skeletal parts such as thigh and lower leg bones, so it covers a very wide range of indications. The product is for use in treating bone defects in orthopedics, traumatology, dental, oral, maxillary and neurosurgery. It can be applied easily for a form fit using a standard syringe. Ostim is fully absorbed by the body.

CE approval marks the expansion by aap of its product range into the new biological implant segment. Annual world market volume for all bone replacement materials used in orthopedics is said by Merrill Lynch currently to amount to roughly $420 million. By 2003, the world market for bone substitutes is expected to be worth up to $700 million, with annual growth rates of between 40% and 45%. With Ostim aap subsidiary Osartis has set a new standard in bone regeneration and succssfully established itself in the future-oriented nanotechnology market. The aap Group's established sales structure will form the basis for a successful market launch of the new bone substitute material. Marketing and sales activities for Ostim are to start immediately. In securing CE approval of Ostim the aap group of companies has reached a further milestone on its way toward market leadership in biomaterials-based implants for orthopedic uses.