Medical Device Link.

Recent experiences with active molecules in spinal fusion devices points to the need to be cautious with dosing regimes and the use of products in off-label situations.

A permanent, molecular level layer, water based surface modification technology has been developed that can be applied to the external and internal polymer surfaces of high value catheters. Its characteristics, advantages and applications are discussed here.

Plasma technology offers a highly effective toolbox for nanoscale surface engineering of materials. The potential variety of nanoscale features and new properties that can be achieved are reviewed here.

Fluorescence is a versatile technique with applications ranging from ultra-low-cost tests that are available over the counter via point of care instruments for use in the doctor’s office to state-of-the-art clinical analysers. This article describes fluorescence, draws on a number of examples to illustrate its versatility and looks at what the future has in store for this powerful technique.

Synthetic human tissues and body parts that closely resemble the live human environment have been developed for use in medical device verification and validation tests. This article discusses how they can save time and money while improving quality and accuracy.

The 15th International Meeting on Radiation Processing was held in London, UK, on 21–25 September 2008. It provided a forum for researchers, academics, the radiation processing industry and its users and regulators to review progress. This report focuses on the developments relevant to medical device sterilisation in products, processes, technology and the regulatory environment that were examined at the event.

Forty-four percent of hospital patients with indwelling catheters can develop significant bacteriuria within 72 hours of catheterisation.¹ It is, therefore, critical that catheters are manufactured with perfectly smooth surfaces and apertures to reduce the potential for infection. An ultrasonic cutting technology is described here that produces smooth apertures and eliminates problems associated with debris.

Now is a good time to review your current joining processes.

The 15th International Meeting on Radiation Processing (IMRP2008) was held in London, UK, on 21–25 September 2008. It provided a forum for researchers, academics, the radiation processing industry and its users and regulators to review progress. A report on the developments relevant to medical device sterilisation in products, processes technology and the regulatory environment was published in the January/February 2009 issue of Medical Device Technology. Read on for more Conference highlights from Programme Committee Chairman, Dr John Woolston.

Medical device companies need to meet European requirements designed to protect the environment. The deadlines for some of the requirements have already passed. This article discusses a European Regulation and two Directives, and a means for meeting environmental requirements in an effective manner.

MEDTEC UK provides medical device designers and manufacturers with the opportunity to review the latest products and services offered by the suppliers to the industry. Exhibitors will be showcasing developments in raw materials, components, manufacturing equipment, testing equipment and services, packaging materials, assembly and automation technology, contract manufacturing and much more ...

Italy’s medical sector is already starting to feel the effects of its ageing demographic, a trend that is set to affect the whole of Europe.

A selection of syringes, needles and check valves.

A round up of the latest sterilisation technologies.

A selection of coating techniques and technologies for improving the surface of medical devices.

Medical Device Technology’s (MDT) series of interviews offers personal perspectives on the diverse and dynamic medical device technology industry. Here, we talk to Dr Guy Lebeau.