Sewing plays a vital role in medical device assembly. The process combines artistry and technical precision to create high-quality devices and materials. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of sewing in medical device manufacturing, delving deeper into the various sewing techniques employed and showcasing their significance in creating intricate and reliable products.
The Art and Science of Stitching in Medical Device Assembly
Skilled stitchers and medical device assemblers create intricate stitches while adhering to stringent manufacturing guidelines and quality standards. This distinguishes medical device sewing from traditional sewing applications, elevating it to a specialized field.
Stent grafts and heart implants, e.g. heart valve leaflets, can be especially dependent on sewing during the assembly process. These are remarkable implants designed to treat various vascular conditions. These devices commonly combine a metallic stent or frame with a fabric graft, typically made of polyester or ePTFE.
Detailed, careful stitching ensures the secure attachment of the graft material to the metal frame. These vascular implants exemplify the artistry and technical precision required in medical device sewing, where even more complex geometries can be achieved by designing and utilizing a pattern to guide sewing entries and exits.
Types of Stitching Techniques in Medical Device Manufacturing
Single-Point Stitching: This technique involves sewing graft material onto the stent or frame using a single continuous suture thread. The thread passes through the graft material and wraps around the metal struts, creating robust attachment points. Single-point stitching provides stability and secure fixation.
Continuous Running Suture: Employing a continuous suture thread, this method ensures uniform attachment of the graft to the metal strut. The suture thread traverses the graft material and metal struts, maintaining consistent connection throughout. Continuous running sutures enhance the strength and integrity of the implant.
Locking Loop Stitch: Locking loop stitches involve creating loops around the metal struts, securely fastening the graft to the frame. The loops interlock, providing additional stability and durability. This technique is particularly useful for maintaining graft position and preventing dislodgment.
Sewing Machines: Sewing machines serve as crucial instruments in the fabrication of surgical meshes for tissue reinforcement and repair, textile implants including hernia meshes, vascular patches, and heart valve replacements, and stents or artificial vessels in a semi-automated capacity.
Precision stitching techniques in medical device assembly contribute to optimal performance and longevity. These techniques include stitch patterns tailored to specific applications, reinforcement of critical areas, meticulous attention to suture tension, and the utilization of patterns to guide sewing entries and exits for more complex geometries. By employing precision stitching, medical devices can achieve the required structural integrity and functionality.
Advances in Medical Device Sewing
The future of medical device sewing is marked by continuous innovation. Automation and robotics are being integrated into the sewing process, enabling higher precision, consistency, and efficiency. Seam sealing techniques, such as ultrasonic welding and adhesive bonding, ensure even stronger and more reliable device constructions.
These advancements reflect the commitment to pushing the boundaries of sewing in medical device manufacturing. As the art and science of sewing continue to evolve, the future promises further innovations, propelling medical device manufacturing to new heights of precision and excellence.
Contact Medical Murray Today
Medical Murray is a leading provider of medical device sewing services. We have a team of experienced medical device assemblers who are experts in the use of a variety of sewing techniques. We provide our customers with the highest quality medical devices. We can help you achieve your manufacturing goals.
Contact us today to learn more about our medical device sewing services.
By Tanner Hargens and Eric Leopold