Case study

Device for improving circulation in the legs utilizes Makrolon®

Poor circulation can lead to conditions that negatively impact a patient’s quality of life. ElastiMed is utilizing innovative materials in a smart, wearable, active compression device that aims to improve circulation in the legs.

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Task

Design a comfortable, easy-to-wear compression device

Circulation is a critical function that ensures nutrients and oxygen are delivered to all the cells in the body. If circulation is poor, it can lead to various conditions that negatively impact a patient’s quality of life, such as swelling (lymphedema, edema), pain, varicose veins, chronic wounds or other conditions.

ElastiMed needed innovative materials that could be used for a prototype device that aims to improve circulation in the legs.

Traditional solutions suffer from a 60% non-compliance rate. We wanted our device to be easy to wear and fit comfortably. With the materials we selected, we were able to design a device that is highly effective, easy to wear and does not disrupt the patient’s lifestyle, a key element in promoting compliance.

Omer Zelka

Chief Executive Officer,ElastiMed

Challenge

Find the right strong, lightweight and easy-to-process material

According to ElastiMed, Smart Electro Active Polymers (EAP) bands wrap around the leg, causing them to squeeze and massage the patient’s leg, mimicking rhythmic calf muscle contractions to promote fluid movement.

ElastiMed’s design also called for a strong yet lightweight material that would be able to withstand a variety of conditions the patient might encounter during daily use.

We’ve seen firsthand how advances in technology are making it possible to shift treatment from a clinical setting toward home healthcare. ElastiMed’s device illustrates the role materials play in designing devices that are lightweight, comfortable and look good, making them more appealing to patients.

Doug Hamilton

Global Healthcare Marketing Leader,Covestro LLC

Solution

Covestro polycarbonates give ElastiMed a leg up

ElastiMed turned Covestro and its versatile Makrolon® polycarbonate.

Tough, durable Makrolon® 2805 polycarbonate from Covestro helps the prototype device withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. Also important for ElastiMed, the component formed from this material can be efficiently injection molded in one piece.

The leg compression device is IoT compatible, integrating sensors for data generation and compliance monitoring. It is now in clinical approvals and ElastiMed expects it to be available globally in 2021.

Our collaboration with ElastiMed is an excellent example of our commitment to our customer’s success, as well as our dedication to helping improve patient experience through the use of our materials.

Thomas Kostadinov

Healthcare Segment Manager,Covestro EMEA

Why Makrolon® 2805 polycarbonate is the right material for ElastiMed

Strong Makrolon® polycarbonate can withstand daily use in a variety of settings
Lightweight Lightweight Makrolon® polycarbonate is comfortable for the patient
Excellent processability Makrolon® polycarbonate is suitable for efficient, one-piece injection molding

Related brands and products

Product
Plastics

Makrolon® 2805

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