Recent progress of nickel titanium (NiTi) in medical applications

Nickel-titanium (NiTi), also known as Nitinol, is a unique alloy composed of almost equal atomic percentages of nickel and titanium. It is known for its excellent properties, including superelasticity, shape memory, biocompatibility and corrosion resistance. These properties make nickel-titanium the material of choice for a variety of medical applications. Over the past few years, there have been significant advances in NiTi applications in the medical field, from cardiovascular devices to orthopedic implants and minimally invasive surgical tools.

one. Cardiovascular applications
NiTi has revolutionized the field of cardiovascular medicine, particularly in the development of stents and other implantable devices. The superelastic and shape memory properties of NiTi allow the scaffold to be compressed into a small diameter, delivered through a catheter, and then expanded to its original shape after deployment in the blood vessel. This minimizes trauma to blood vessel walls and ensures optimal blood flow.

- Latest Developments:
Drug-eluting stents (DES) : Recent advances in NiTi stents include the integration of drug-eluting coatings to prevent restenosis (arterial restenosis). Over time, these stents release anti-proliferative drugs, reducing the risk of scar tissue formation.
Bioabsorbable stents: Researchers are exploring the use of NiTi in bioabsorbable stents so that it gradually dissolves after achieving its purpose, eliminating the need for a permanent implant.

Patient-specific stents: Advances in 3D printing and computational modeling allow custom-designed NiTi stents to be tailored to the individual patient's anatomy, improving outcomes and reducing complications.

2. Shaping application
NiTi's unique mechanical properties make it an ideal material for orthopedic implants and devices. Its ability to withstand cyclic loads and restore its original shape is particularly beneficial in applications such as spinal implants, bone fixation devices, and joint replacements.

- Latest Developments:
Spinal fusion devices: NiTi rods and cages are increasingly used in spinal fusion surgery to stabilize the spine while promoting bone growth. The flexibility of this material reduces stress shielding, a common problem with rigid implants.
Bone fixation plates and screws: nickel-titanium based plates and screws are being developed to provide dynamic compression, thereby enhancing bone healing. These devices adapt to the physiological load and improve the patient's recovery.

- Minimally Invasive tools: NiTi instruments, such as guides and drills, are being used in minimally invasive orthopedic surgery. Their flexibility and strength allow surgeons to navigate complex anatomies with precision.

- Latest Developments:
Endoscopic instruments: niti based endoscopic tools, such as pliers and scissors, are being improved for better operability and durability. These tools can navigate tight Spaces without losing structural integrity.
4. Dental applications
In dentistry, nickel-titanium is widely used in orthodontic wire and pulp files because of its ability to apply a constant force over a wide range of deflections. This ensures effective tooth movement and root canal cleaning and minimizes patient discomfort.

- Latest Developments:
Smart orthodontic lines: Researchers are developing NiTi lines with enhanced properties, such as variable stiffness and control transfer, to optimize tooth alignment.
- Rotary root canal file: NiTi rotary file is being improved to reduce the risk of fracture and improve the efficiency of root canal surgery. Advances in surface treatment have also improved their durability and performance.

Dental implants: Nickel-titanium is being explored for use in dental implants due to its biocompatibility and ability to withstand cyclic loads. Surface modifications are currently being investigated to improve bone integration.

 

Other related product catalogues

Nickel titanium memory alloy in addition to the production of nickel-titanium strips, can also produce other similar products, such as nickel-titanium plate, nickel titanium flat wire, nickel titanium foil, nickel titanium wire, nickel titanium tube, nickel titanium spring, nickel titanium paper clips, nickel titanium wire rope.

Contact us

Baoji Hanz Metal Material Co., Ltd.
Gaoxin Avenue, BaoJi city, ShaanXi province China
Tel: 86-917-3258889
Mobile, Whatsapp,Wechat: +8618091719909
Email:baojihanz-niti@hanztech.cn