Source: www.onlinetmd.com Author: Elizabeth Engler Modic Morgan Technical Ceramics (MTC) worked with the UK-based University of Hull to develop a new valve used to restore vocal function for patients with throat cancer. The new tracheo-oesophageal fistula speech valve uses Zyranox biocompatible Yttria partially-stabilized Zirconia, specifically developed for surgical implant devices. The iterative design process for this innovative valve included a close collaboration, featuring consultation on materials, prototyping to test the design, and precision manufacturing to meet the extremely tight tolerances required. The patented new ceramic valve lasts at least eight times longer than traditionally used silicone valves, improving patient quality of life and decreasing overall healthcare costs. The device is to go to market via the spinout company Avoco Medical Ltd. Project Goals Avoco Medical was seeking to improve upon a commonly used speech restoration system for throat cancer patients, which uses a small silicone valve connecting the windpipe (trachea) and the throat (oesophagus). Air, powered by the lungs, diverts into the throat, which vibrates and results in fluent speech. Traditionally the valve is from silicone rubber, but the material exposure to hostile and non-sterile environments results in development of a biofilm on the surface. This biofilm causes valve performance to deteriorate, necessitating an uncomfortable and costly valve replacement procedure about every three months.[1] Precision Manufacturing The company was seeking a way to replace the silicone with ceramic, a more attractive material because of its stability, biocompatibility, and compliance. With its hard, impervious surface, ceramic is more resistant [...]