Bioventus Introduces New Bone Graft Substitute

Durham-based Bioventus has come up with a new bone graft substitute that it says is easier for doctors to handle, promotes healing in patients, and provides potential cost savings for hospitals. 

The global orthobiologics company plans to launch its SIGNAFUSE Bioactive Bone Graft in a new strip format in the next few months. The product consists of 55 percent bioglass by weigh and its mineral structure is made up of 60 percent hydroxyapatite and 40 percent beta-tricalcium phosphate. 

SIGNAFUSE Bioactive Bone Graft is intended for use in bony empty spaces or gaps in the skeletal system that aren’t required for bone stability.  These defects may be the result of surgery or injury to the bone. The product is combined with bone marrow from the patient and then packed into the area that needs to be repaired. It is reabsorbed and replaced by the host’s bone during the healing process.  

SIGNAFUSE has been available as a putty since 2014, but Bioventus pointed out that the new product absorbs and holds moisture rapidly and is simpler to handle during surgery. It also comes in multiple sizes, ranging from 25 to 200 millimeters. The company noted that the longer strips are a great option for large, multilevel procedures. 

“We are excited to expand our portfolio of bone graft solutions with the SIGNAFUSE Bioactive Bone Graft strip,” said Megan Osorio, Bioventus’ marketing vice president. “Apart from the ideal combination of biomaterials that contribute to healing and best-in-class handling, this product is unique in that it offers a great solution for patients that require more significant interventions such as spinal deformity correction.”

Bioventus said the SIGNAFUSE strip also can be efficient for hospital use because it requires opening fewer packages and provides additional  opportunities for cost savings compared to other grafts. 

Bioventus was established in 2012 and is privately held. Its U.S. headquarters are based in Durham and its international headquarters are in Hoofddorp, the Netherlands. Annual revenues are $340 million. The company has more than 700 employees worldwide, including about 150 in Durham.

Bioventus said its products will benefit more than 440,000 people this year.