Teijin, a leading Japanese chemical, pharmaceutical and information technology company, has recently revealed that it intends to target Thailand offering technologies for the repair of misshapen bones in order to strengthen its position in the Southeast Asian market.
Specifically, it has been reported that its subsidiary, Teijin Nakashima Medical, plans to apply for approval for nylon guides and titanium alloy plates, which are used in orthopedic surgery. Guides are needed to determine where to excise bone portions when correcting bones misshapen by fractures. The plates are used to rejoin bone.
Thailand is set to become the first country outside of Japan where Teijin has applied for the approval of the technology. Thailand´s authorities are expected to receive the application by the end of 2022. In addition, the Japanese company is evaluating the possibility of setting up a factory in Thailand.
Teijin is currently developing software for designing 3D models of fractured bones. Making use of computed tomography, the images help plan out bone correction surgery. The Japanese firm intends to offer the software as a tool for facilitating the use of guides and plates. It is also being considered for educational and telemedicine applications.
It is estimated that around one-fifth of all Thai patients who suffer bone fractures from accidents develop misshapen bones while recovering. That is around 40 times more than in Japan; and Teijin sees a market opportunity. The company assessed that 3D diagnostic technology that uses computed tomography has not penetrated Thailand, as locals tend to avoid scans because of fears of radiation.
(Source: Nikkei Asia)
