Enabling Long-Winded Speech: New speech valve implant with high-purity zirconia lasts eight times longer than traditional silicon. Here's how it was made

摘要

Morgan Advanced Materials worked with the University of Hull (Hull, UK) 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 silicone valves traditionally used, improving patient quality of life and decreasing overall healthcare costs. The device is to be taken to market by the spinoff company Avoco Medical Ltd. (also in Hull, UK).