Innovations for the patient
Research activities in medical engineering focus on the development of new methods and products for reducing surgical risks and for improving the clinical outcome, e.g. longer implant life. The integration and application of new materials and technologies is imperative in this context. Adaptive materials such as nickel-titanium alloys have already shown how much potential lies in innovative materials. Currently, vascular surgery relies heavily on superelastic stents (vessel supports). Additionally, there is even more potential in these adaptive materials. Future implants will possess new functionalities and will contribute to meeting the numerous challenges in surgery. Modern diagnostic processes for intraoperative navigation or pre-operative planning will support the surgeon in complex surgeries and in selecting appropriate implants. Furthermore, they will contribute to a higher treatment quality.
In close collaboration with hospitals, university medical centers, research institutions and manufacturers of medical products Fraunhofer IWU develops solutions along the entire value-added chain, from the first idea up to technological implementation of novel components and systems.