Artelon®

What is Artelon®?

A degradable polymer material called polyurethaneurea.

What happens when Artelon® degrades?

Artelon^® degrades in the presence of water. About 50% of the material is resorbable and is excreted after hydrolysis. The remaining material is incorporated into the surrounding tissue.

Artelon® CMC Spacer

What is the patient history for Artelon Spacer?

The first patients were treated in 1999 and were included in the pilot study at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Sweden. Results have been published in The Journal of Hand Surgery, (Am). See our list of selected publications »
The Spacer has been available for regular use in the EU since August 2003 and in the USA since September 2004.

How long is the isolation period after receiving an Artelon® CMC Spacer? When does the cast/splint/bandage come off?

There is a cast minimum of five weeks, with a change of plaster after 2-3 weeks. A brace can be used as support after the plaster is removed.

What is the expected time before daily activities can be resumed and what are these activities?

After 3–6 months you should be able to perform everything you usually do, except for activities that involve a heavy load and vibration. Some degree of pain is a natural part of the healing process and should be expected during the first six months.

If you are more than three months post-surgery and feel pain even when the hand is at rest, or if, for example pain occurs after a fall or a heavy lift, an additional examination or x-ray might be needed.

In what countries is the Artelon® CMC Spacer sold?

Artelon^® CMC Spacer is CE-marked and FDA-cleared. The product is also avaialble in Canada and Australia.

See contact page for details»