The healthcare industry is under constant evolution because of technology. If you examine the progress made five years ago, those in the medical and scientific field introduce innovative digital solutions almost every day. Many of these changes are relevant to the medical device manufacturing industry. In addition, new devices are manufactured, but existing ones are receiving modifications. This article will tackle how medical devices are improving using advanced technology.  

1. Improved Cybersecurity 

There is a period known as Industry 4.0 that the manufacturing industry adopted to introduce advanced digitalization in robotics, artificial intelligence, and IoT (Internet of Things). Cybersecurity was also discussed as they are relevant to medical devices. 

The security of medical devices became a concern due to the cyberattack in 2017 at the National Healthcare Service in the UK. The event affected the healthcare computer systems. If there are vulnerabilities to cybersecurity, hackers could have access to medical devices that could affect their capacity or issue commands that could lead to lethal consequences on a person’s life.  

Due to the continued technological security threats that can compromise product quality, the Food and Drug Administration mandated strict monitoring tools and tracking device performance on medical device manufacturing companies like RBC Medical to detect potential issues urgently.  

2. Innovative AI Medical Devices 

According to Stanford University, industries revolving around AI have been increasing since 2000. They were able to identify which emerging technologies are growng in demand to an extent in various industries. Additionally, a significant amount of investment is placed in medical device companies.   

AI-based medical devices since artificial intelligence improve capabilities and revolutionize healthcare. Moreover, AI-based devices assist medical professionals through accurate diagnostics and improved treatment for overall care.      

Medical devices serve these main functions: 

• Medical Imaging  

Companies can conduct medical imaging with better quality through high-definition features that serve clarity. They are also providing patients with less radiation exposure.  

• Chronic Disease Management 

AI-based medical devices can monitor and provide treatment simultaneously, such as devices for diabetic patients. They could wear devices that come with sensors that monitor blood sugar levels and administer insulin when it comes dangerously low.  

• Internet of Things (IoT) 

Under the system of the IoT, it means that medical devices can be wireless, interrelated, and connected. Medical professionals can gather and manage information to keep patients informed and monitored and minimize costs.  

3. Utilizing 3D Technology to Create Devices 

Constructing medical devices is one of the most highly-regulated procedures. That’s because they are now integrating innovative technology into their processes. The use of 3D technology has found its way into the medical field and is creating on-demand medical devices.  

Also known as additive manufacturing, 3D printing began in the 1980s. It involves using a digital model and is created as a physical representation by using an appropriate material to print in successive layers.  

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is used in various industries, including medical technology. In addition, professionals integrate the technological method by producing digital models through CT scans, x-rays, MRI scans, and ultrasounds. These models are then fed into the 3D printer, which creates printed artificial organs used in human organ transplants.  

They are easier to procure, making surgical procedures faster, more affordable versions of surgical tools, and help improve patients’ lifestyles reliant on prosthetic limbs.     

4. Creation of Smart Factory Solutions 

Efficiently manufacturing medical devices are not only about producing advanced tools for healthcare needs. It also involves improving processes to create high-quality products. Integrating innovative smart factory solutions uses systems comprising of digital and physical techniques.  

These systems monitor the processes in the factory and other critical areas of the business. They gather data for analysis and present them to technicians, managers, engineers, and other decision-makers in the organization.  

Smart factory solutions also offer automation of supporting controls. Other benefits include the following: 

• Availability of on-demand and real-time visibility of performance information
• Ensures maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements
• Improves overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), digital twin technologies, and machine learning occurring at the machine, process, and plant level
• The factory becomes more flexible and adaptable than regular production facilities
• Manufacturers quickly react to various situations regarding production, market conditions, and demand 

In Conclusion 

The healthcare industry is among the businesses that must continuously evolve to provide efficient and affordable medical devices to both the medical field and the masses. It seeks technology to create medical devices that help medical professionals to save lives more effectively. At the same time, medical devices for regular individuals can help them become more vigilant with their health.