Technical textiles are playing an increasingly important role in the orthopaedic industry and the delivery of patient care. With over 180 years of experience developing specialised fabrics, Baltex is leveraging its expertise to create innovative textiles for medical applications. For the past decade, our focus has been on engineering high performance knitted textiles to improve orthopaedic products and enhance patient outcomes.
Technical textiles are an important and growing area within the orthopaedic field. From supports and braces to surgical implants, specially engineered fabrics are playing a major role in injury prevention and treatment.
In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the key applications of technical textiles in orthopaedics and why they are becoming more prevalent.
One of the most common uses of technical textiles in orthopaedics is in braces and supports. These are constructed using high-performance fabrics that provide compression, support, and stabilisation for joints and muscles. Neoprene, laminated fibres, and elastic textiles are often used to create braces that are flexible yet strong. Knee, back, wrist, and ankle braces made with technical fabrics can aid in injury recovery and help prevent future injuries in athletes and regular patients alike. The breathability and moisture wicking properties of the fabrics add to the comfort and functionality.
Surgical mesh is another orthopaedic application of specialty textiles. Meshes made from polypropylene, polyester, or absorbable materials can be used for hernia repair, rotator cuff surgery, and knee or hip arthroplasty procedures. The mesh supports the damaged tissue and promotes tissue regrowth while the fabric is absorbed naturally by the body over time. Using surgical mesh can lead to faster recovery times compared to traditional sutures alone.
Technical textiles are also being used in artificial ligaments and tendons. Fabrics such as carbon fibres and special polymer fibres like polylactic acid (PLA) can be woven into strong cords that replicate the function of torn connective tissues. These artificial ligaments and tendons allow for natural movement and stability in the joint post-surgery. Related to this, research is being done into using advanced technical fabrics for artificial muscles in prosthetic limbs.
Orthopaedic casts and splints have also benefited from advances in technical fabrics. Cast padding and lining materials have become more breathable, lightweight, and able to be safely soaked and dried. Fibreglass casting tapes infused with water-activated polyurethane resins create strong, supportive casts while cutting down on application time. Removable and adjustable splints made with composites of fibreglass, carbon fibre, and polyethylene allow for mobilisation in the healing process.
As this overview demonstrates, the orthopaedic sector is embracing technical textiles due to their capability to be engineered for specific functions. From injury prevention to surgical implants, specially designed fabrics are enabling better patient outcomes and recovery.
Baltex is engineering fabrics with unique combinations of properties like breathability, flexibility, water resistance and comfort. With our deep expertise in textile development, Baltex is creating innovative technical fabrics that are transforming orthopaedic devices and improving patient outcomes. Our fabrics are enabling the next generation of medical textiles and advancing healthcare delivery.