The Technical Commission for Craniomaxillofacial Surgery AOTK (CMF)The AOTK (CMF) is the only body empowered to approve a device (product) or method (technology) indicated for Craniomaxillofacial Surgery as a SYNTHES® Product. It is a part of the TK-System, one of the institutes of the AO Foundation. It also supports, guides, and supervises the work of three Expert Groups. The AOTK (CMF) is chaired by Edward Ellis III.
Structure and Organization of the TK-System
Since the TK-System is based on a three pillars model with each specialty (Trauma, Spine and CMF) equally represented, the AOTK (CMF) is one out of three Technical Commissions. The whole TK-System is governed by the TK Executive Board (TKEB) and managed by the TK Office. More information on the TK-System, its boards and members can be obtained here.
The TK-System is managed by the TK Office.
Products which have been recently approved by the AOTK (CMF) can be seen here.
Further information on the whole TK-System can be seen here (aotk@aofoundation.org).
Group photo of all medical members of the AO CMF TK-System
Expert Groups
An Expert Group (EG) is somewhat like the “backbone” in the product development process. Any new idea for an instrument, implant or technique is evaluated and handled by the Expert Groups. They involve surgeons from all specialties and regions collaborating closely with engineers starting from guidance in making first prototypes to clinical testing of new products. The expertise and experience of the involved surgeons mark a major asset in the development process as they provide their know-how during all stages ensuring that all new products address the actual clinical needs.
To date there are two EGs dedicated to innovations and product development for Craniomaxillofacial Surgery:
All of its EGs work closely together with the development departments of the AO Foundation’s commercial partners. Other AO institutes such as the Development Institute (ADI), Research Institute (ARI) and Clinical Investigation & Documentation (CID) are involved to achieve optimal solutions for the patient’s benefit.
Development of surgical implants and instruments has always been a keystone within the activities of the AO Foundation. Dozens of independent medical members as well as many additional guest surgeons provide their experience to develop new treatment options according to clinical needs within the TK-System. Finally the TK-System supports the introduction of the new techniques and their respective teaching by AO Education. Responsible for the development of all new devices is a highly specialized organization of medical-technical commissions: the TK-System.
Involvement
All Expert Groups welcome the input from innovative surgeons throughout the product development process. Besides the option to take part in the clinical testing, there is also the possibility to become the so-called “Medical Godfather” of a project. Medical Godfathers supervise the whole development process from the initial idea to test marketing and teaching at AO Courses. They report their feedback to the respective Expert Group on its meetings. The TK-System encourages participation in its work and welcomes everybody to share their ideas. To briefly describe your own suggestions for new concepts or improvements to existing solutions, please fill in the TK Idea Form, which can be downloaded here.
Contact
Any surgeon who sees a clinical need for a new or improved solution for implants, instruments, or techniques is invited to participate. To get in contact with the AOTK (CMF) click here.
| AOTK (CMF) members |
E Ellis (USA), Chairman
R Hopper (USA)
A Herford (USA)
M Ehrenfeld (GER)
R Kontio (FIN)
J Prein (CH), AOE, ex officio |
Contact:
C Albers, TK Office |
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