Foil monomer container and dispenser

Abstract

A metallic container for storing the liquid monomer component of bone cement and a method of packaging same are disclosed. The container is preferably aluminum and has an interior wall, a dispensing end, a reservoir for housing the liquid monomer, and a filling end for receiving the liquid monomer. The container is sealed by a welded seam near the filling end of the container, which secures a section of the top portion and lower portion of the interior wall of the container together.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to containers for housing liquid monomers used in two-part bone cement systems, and more particularly to welded metallic containers for housing liquid monomer and methods of making same. [0002] Bone cement is well known in the surgical community for its ability to improve the strength, rigidity, and movement of the bone / joint structure. It is used during surgical procedures, such as the attachment of a prosthesis or pathological fracture fixation. With regard to the attachment of a prosthesis, the cement is packed into the bone and the prosthesis is then implanted. The cement cures and a bond develops between the bone and the prosthesis. Other uses of bone cement include repairing or mending bone fractures or shattered bone occurring from extreme trauma. Bone cement may also be used as a drug delivery or release system, whereby the bone cement is mixed with antibiotics or other desired drugs and applied to a specific s...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a more leak-resistant and cost-effective flexible container for housing liquid monomer. The container has a containment barrier in the form of a welded seam, which results in a more effective barrier than previous methods. The container is easy and safe to use, preventing the escape of liquid monomer. The container is made of pure aluminum and is cost-effective to manufacture and fill. The container can be used with a bone cement mixer and is designed to minimize shortcomings of prior art containers. The technical effects of the invention include improved safety and containment of liquid monomer, as well as cost-effectiveness and ease of use.

Problems solved by technology

Due to the volatility resulting from the combination of the liquid monomer and polymeric powder, however, the two components must be separated until just prior to the need for the bone cement during a surgical procedure.

There are several drawbacks, however, arising from the use of glass ampoules to store liquid monomer.

The resulting fractured glass shards pose hazards to both the patient and the operating room staff.

Furthermore, prior to the transfer of the glass ampoules to the operating room or intended destination, the fragile glass ampoules are susceptible to unintentional and premature fractures.

Like glass, however, known aluminum flexible containers for housing liquid monomer also have drawbacks.

Known containers for housing liquid monomers are not capable of being comprised of pure aluminum.

The use of such a coating, however, limits the long-term ability of the container to effectively prevent the leakage of liquid monomer.

The methacrylate monomer causes the breakdown of such materials, which, in turn reduces the effectiveness of the seal and results in the leakage of liquid monomer.

Images