Biologization, miniaturization and individualization
The medical devices industry is a dynamic sector characterized by a high degree of innovation. New developments in microelectronics, sensor technology and materials science generate new requirements for an increasing number of therapy procedures, the aim being to promote healthy living and health aging. The vigorous innovative power embodied by mainly German medium-sized enterprises in the medical technology branch is evidenced by above-average spending on R&D.
Aging societies, heightened health consciousness and new diagnostic and treatment possibilities mean that the market for medical technology products will continue to expand. At the same time, this industrial sector is confronted with major challenges: new regulations, stricter requirements for drug approval as well as increasing complexity in research and development processes represent new hurdles that are part of the demanding framework conditions.
The biologization, miniaturization and individualization of medical products are among the most important dimensions in medical technology. They complement each other and hold the promise of better, more effective and individualized treatment and diagnostics. The main technologies and applications involved are prosthetics and implants, in vitro diagnostics as well as surgical and interventional devices and systems.
NMI: application-oriented and interdisciplinary
Innovative medical technology is, to a great extent, the outcome of interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge transfer between scientists, engineers, business enterprises and physicians. The NMI works actively with these partners as well as with others from renowned medical technology companies.
The NMI's interdisciplinary approach delivers innovative results in these fields:
- Intelligent implants
- Materials and surfaces for regenerative medicine
- Immunological reactions on the medically-treated surface
- Process safety and quality assurance