CarbonSC

Disruptive carbon-fibre sternal closure system for fast and secure fixation of a sternotomy.

CarbonSC develops and clinically tests a disruptive sternal closure compatible with mini-sternotomies that solves the main drawbacks of current technologies.

In this sense, CarbonSC is the first cost-effective solution that fixes the sternum in a safe, fast and error-proof way, while avoiding bone damage.

The main clinical innovations of the CarbonSC system are, on the one hand, designing a unique mechanism, integrated into the device itself, that ensures the application of a precise tightening force to close the sternum, and on the other hand, developing a single instrument that allows efficient, fast and easy implantation of the new device in mini-sternotomies. To do this, three key factors are considered: materials, design and manufacturing processes.

To achieve these goals, CarbonSC develops an advanced manufacturing process that ensures the key properties of the CarbonSC implant. With it, the individual quality of each part of the sternal closure system can be traced and controlled, thus guaranteeing a precise tightening force. In addition, the project creates a finite element model that links finite element analysis with process simulation and structural characterisation, to accompany the design decision-making process.

Eurecat participates in the CarbonSC project through different Technological Units:

• Product Innovation and Multiphysics Simulation: Definition of a finite element model for decision-making during the design process.
• Composite Materials: Development of a robust manufacturing process that guarantees the properties of CarbonSC.
• New Manufacturing Processes: Development of a fibre optic sensor that allows monitoring and controlling the temperature of the CarbonSC injection process.