Medical Design Briefs - January 2018

Overview

The January 2018 issue of Medical Design Briefs offers a comprehensive look at the latest trends, technologies, and considerations in the medical device industry. This edition is designed to inform and inspire professionals involved in the design, development, and manufacturing of medical devices, providing insights into various aspects of the field.

Key Features and Articles

1. Tackle the Intricacies of Medical Device Development with a Solid Platform: This article emphasizes the importance of a robust development platform in the medical device industry. It discusses how a solid foundation can streamline the design process, enhance collaboration among teams, and ultimately lead to more successful product outcomes. The piece highlights best practices for integrating various components of device development, from initial concept to final production.

2. Considerations for Specifying Ultra-Engineering Polymers for Extruded Medical Applications – Part 1: This feature delves into the selection of ultra-engineering polymers, which are critical for the performance and reliability of medical devices. The article outlines the properties that make these materials suitable for medical applications, such as biocompatibility, chemical resistance, and mechanical strength. It also provides guidance on how to choose the right polymer for specific applications, ensuring that devices meet regulatory standards and perform effectively in clinical settings.

3. Orthopedics: Springs Provide Precision, Cleanability: Focusing on orthopedic devices, this article discusses the role of springs in enhancing the precision and cleanability of these products. It explores various spring designs and materials that can improve the functionality of orthopedic implants and instruments, emphasizing the need for innovation in this critical area of medical technology.

4. Every Drop Counts: Designing Motors to Optimize Home and Ambulatory Infusion Pumps: This article addresses the design challenges associated with motors used in infusion pumps, which are essential for delivering medication accurately and efficiently. It highlights the importance of optimizing motor performance to ensure precise dosing, reliability, and user-friendliness. The piece also discusses emerging technologies that can enhance the capabilities of infusion pumps, making them more effective for home and ambulatory use.

Tech Briefs

The issue includes several tech briefs that showcase cutting-edge innovations in medical technology:

• Beating Heart Patch: A groundbreaking development in cardiac repair, this patch is designed to be large enough to effectively repair damaged heart tissue, potentially transforming treatment options for patients with heart conditions.

• Single Photon Camera: This high-speed, high-resolution camera technology is poised to advance imaging techniques in medical diagnostics, offering improved capabilities for detecting and analyzing various conditions.

• Artificial Muscles: The article discusses the development of artificial muscles that can give soft robots enhanced capabilities, opening new possibilities for robotic applications in healthcare, such as rehabilitation and assistance.

• New Rapid Test for Malaria: A significant advancement in diagnostic technology, this rapid test aims to improve the speed and accuracy of malaria diagnosis, which is crucial for effective treatment and control of the disease.

• Therapy Robots: This brief highlights the progress being made towards the development of therapy robots, which could play a vital role in patient care and rehabilitation, providing support and interaction for individuals in need.

Departments and Additional Content

The magazine also features various departments that provide updates on research and development, new products and services, and a roundup of global innovations in the medical field. The advertisers index offers a comprehensive list of companies and products relevant to the medical design community, facilitating connections between manufacturers and healthcare providers.

Special Supplement

A special section dedicated to technology leaders in electrical connectors, wires, and cables is included in this issue. This supplement discusses the critical role that these components play in ensuring the reliability and safety of medical devices, particularly in environments where performance is paramount.

Conclusion

The January 2018 issue of Medical Design Briefs serves as a valuable resource for professionals in the medical device industry. With its focus on innovative technologies, practical design considerations, and insights into emerging trends, this edition equips readers with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of medical device development. Whether you are involved in R&D, manufacturing, or regulatory compliance, the articles and features in this issue provide essential information to enhance your work and contribute to the advancement of healthcare technology.