# A Photochemically 3D Printed High-Resolution Biodegradable Suture Retention Clip

> **NIH NIH R43** · DEEP BLUE MEDICAL ADVANCES, INC. · 2021 · $225,000

## Abstract

Abstract: The goal of this SBIR Phase I project is to demonstrate the feasibility of creating a 3D printed,
biosynthetic Pronged Anchor-Clip to overcome the problems associated with large suture knots (knots from #5
suture, tape suture, and mesh suture). Currently large suture knots risk skin erosion, palpability, pain, scarring,
infection, and may even require re-operation for suture abscess. Replacing a knot with a much smaller device
that has a similar surface area as a knot but a much smaller volume without interstices for bacterial growth and
a better safety profile would have a significant impact in Surgery. Large sutures are typically used for tendon
repair in thin skinned areas such as achilles, rotator cuff, or knee, and for abdominal wall reconstruction.
Compared to competing anchoring technologies (e.g. staple, corkscrew, tack, and strap) the Pronged Anchor-
Clip has several advantages: it withstands soft-tissue loads exceeding the strength of competing devices and
the Pronged Anchor-Clip does not injure fascia when applied. The Pronged Anchor-Clip is easier and faster to
apply than tying a knot, and its intuitive design fits easily into clinical practice.
In addition to the surgical benefits of the project, we will create the first commercial biodegradable high-
resolution medical device manufactured by 3D printing. The proprietary co-crosslinker used in this proposal will
create a novel PPF resin that can then be 3D printed through digital light processing. This revolutionary new
PPF material can be used to create medical devices with micro-features that will eventually be resorbed by the
body. This would be unlike any other 3D printed biomedical device.
Through our multi-disciplinary collaboration, we will: optimize PPF formulations for 3D printing and confirm
design thresholds for the Pronged Anchor-Clip are met; characterize the 3D printed PPF Pronged Anchor-Clips
in benchtop testing for: mechanical properties; in vitro degradation rates; potential for infection; and clinically
relevant suture retention performance in cadaver tissue models; and lastly, demonstrate PPF Pronged Anchor-
Clips respond appropriately for bioincorporation, inflammation, and in vivo degradation in swine relative to a
predicate device, per FDA guidance document ISO 10993. At the completion of this proposal we will have
established manufacturing and performance proof points; demonstrating the PPF Pronged Anchor-Clip is
superior to a bulky knot. In a follow-on Phase II SBIR submission, we will complete validation and verification
testing, packaging and sterilization, toxicity testing, ISO 10993-Biological Evaluation of Medical Devices testing
and a chronic swine study for FDA 510(k) clearance of the class II device. Development of a biodegradable
fixation device with enhanced anchoring strength and reduced inflammation is urgently needed in the field of
soft-tissue repair and the proposed material has broader implications in the field of implantable devices.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10157051
- **Project number:** 1R43GM140802-01
- **Recipient organization:** DEEP BLUE MEDICAL ADVANCES, INC.
- **Principal Investigator:** David Ruppert
- **Activity code:** R43 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $225,000
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2021-05-01 → 2023-01-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10157051

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10157051, A Photochemically 3D Printed High-Resolution Biodegradable Suture Retention Clip (1R43GM140802-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-27 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10157051. Licensed CC0.

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