Thumb CMC arthritis is considered one of the major unmet needs in orthopedic medicine today. Conservatively, there are more than 200,000 annual surgeries dealing with arthritis at the thumb CMC joint, and that number is increasing at a rate of over 8 percent per year. The market is primed and ready for a new, game-changing solution.

The team at Sandia Medical Technologies has developed and demonstrated an implant that offers unparalleled solutions and benefits to patients. Our entire team is so excited to complete development of this product, right here in New Mexico, so that we can change lives throughout the world.

Design and Development

Concept, design and development for the ZEPART® implant began and advanced over the past few years at the University of New Mexico, in Albuquerque, NM. The University has well recognized engineering and science departments and programs, coupled with exceptional lab facilities and advanced design programs. UNM is associated with the region’s only Level One Trauma center – The University of New Mexico Hospital – where the founding surgeon, Nathan Morrell, M.D., performs surgery and oversees the Hand Surgery Fellowship Program.

The ZEPART® CMC joint implant was designed by a team of skilled engineers through a rigorous process of iteration and optimization, involving numerous cadaver studies and more than 110 prototype types developed.

The implant has been meticulously designed to reestablish the height of the thumb, reestablish grip strength, give people their motion back and give people their lives back. This is a completely novel design, unlike anything else currently on the market. It’s designed to give both normal grip strength and normal range of motion, while also eliminating the painful, debilitating symptoms of arthritis.

Development progressed through institution funding as well as multiple grant awards. Sandia Medical Technologies was formed in early 2024 to option the license for the technology from the University, through UNM Rainforest Innovations. In 2024, the company also competed for and won a significant pilot program grant from the New Mexico Economic Development Department.

Nearing Launch

Joining the clinical and development team in early 2024, the executive business team has a combined 50 years of experience in medical device commercialization and regulatory submission.

In 2025, Sandia Medical Technologies is now beginning its process to raise outside funds for next steps on the road to commercialization and launch. Interested parties can contact Interested parties can contact President & CEO Rick Thomson.