The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) approval to Victrex plc and Maxx Orthopedics Inc for a study of the Freedom® Total Knee System utilizing the Invibio PEEK-OPTIMA™ Femoral Component. This pivotal trial aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a knee implant incorporating PEEK-OPTIMA™, a high-performance polymer, compared to traditional metal femoral components in total knee arthroplasty.
The study, projected to enroll 120 patients at multiple clinical sites across the United States, represents a significant step forward in assessing the potential benefits of PEEK-OPTIMA™ in orthopedic applications. The primary objective is to compare the clinical outcomes of patients receiving the PEEK-OPTIMA™ femoral component with those receiving a control implant consisting of the same system but using traditional metal femoral components. This controlled registry approach will provide valuable insights into the performance and durability of the PEEK-OPTIMA™ material in a real-world setting.
Building on International Clinical Experience
This FDA approval builds upon existing clinical trials for the PEEK Knee, which have been underway in Belgium, India, and Italy since the first implant in 2021. These ongoing trials have demonstrated strong progress, with no clinical interventions reported to date. The international experience provides a solid foundation for the US-based study, potentially accelerating the adoption of this innovative technology.
Potential Commercialization and Market Impact
In addition to the US trial, a regulatory submission in India is anticipated imminently, potentially paving the way for commercial availability of the PEEK Knee in that market as early as 2025. This regulatory progress underscores the growing momentum behind PEEK-OPTIMA™ as a viable alternative to traditional materials in joint replacement. Victrex also reports increasing interest in PEEK Knee from across the medical device industry, beyond their existing collaborations.
Executive Perspective
Jakob Sigurdsson, Chief Executive of Victrex, commented on the FDA approval, stating, "PEEK Knee has the potential to be a game-changer for total knee replacement. Being able to further assess its benefits through rigorous clinical evaluation in the US will build on the strong progress so far through clinical trial sites in Europe and India. We look forward to the study's progression and remain optimistic about the transformative impact this pioneering device could have on the future of joint replacement."
