Value Pricing Leader IFS Now Marketing Subtalar Implants

Internal Fixation Systems, a Miami, Florida, company founded in 2006, has received 510(k) clearance from the FDA to market its subtalar implants. Made of stainless steel, with a cylindrical shape and tapering on one or both ends, the devices are designed to preserve motion at the ankle joint and deal with arthritis as well as whatever trauma the patient has experienced.

IFS’s CEO, Stephen Dresnick, M.D., says that his firm also currently offers a full line of mini-cannulated screws for small bone fixation as well as a Modular Locking Small Fragment System for treatment of bone fractures and osteotomies.

In describing IFS, Dresnick said that the company takes products that have been around for a long time and made by various companies, such as subtalar implants, and figures out how to make them better. He presents the established designs to his panel of recognized surgeons for analysis and modification and the addition of doctor—recommended enhancements. Dresnick then manufactures and sells the devices for 40% to 60% less than the competition.

“We are a value-priced company,” Dresnick told OTW. “We try to build our products inexpensively. They presently cost too much. Medicare is no longer willing or able to pay separately for implants.” IFS customers include ambulatory surgery centers, hospitals and orthopedic surgeons.