Med tech intro

Definition of Medical Technology

  • Medical technology encompasses various applications, including:

    • Development of biomolecules for medical settings (e.g., monoclonal antibodies).

    • Diagnostic kits for disease testing.

    • Diagnostic instruments such as MRI scanners.

    • Assistive devices including robotic aids.

  • The focus is on devices and instruments that assist in medical contexts.

Areas of Interest

  • Molecular and genetic applications (e.g., genetic screening).

  • Engineering aspects related to machines and devices.

  • The module aims to apply knowledge from biomedical science to improve disease treatment and patient well-being.

Project Assessment

  • Students are encouraged to select a particular area of interest, which could coincide with their project work.

  • The assessment will help students explore various applications of medical technology and potentially influence career opportunities or further studies.

Module Content Structure

  • Development of technologies to enhance quality of life.

  • Addressing various medical and healthcare issues through:

    • Biological principles.

    • Engineering technologies.

    • Wireless technologies and robotics.

    • Hospital diagnostics and treatments.

  • Overview of various medical technology areas:

    • Disability rehabilitation.

    • Surgical technology, implants, and prosthetics.

    • Assistive technology for the elderly and infirm.

    • The intersection of medical technology with defense applications (biological warfare detection).

Enterprise and Business Approaches

  • Emphasis on placing a focus on enterprise aspects:

    • Protecting the idea (intellectual property).

    • Marketability and sales potential of the product.

    • Ethical considerations in technology applications (led by Lynn Lawrence).

  • Importance of developing a business mindset in applying medical technology.

Course Assessment Structure

  • Single case study report due in January (100%).

    • 10% of the assessment is based on a minute-long verbal pitch about the chosen project idea.

  • Encouragement for students to engage early in determining their project to avoid last-minute stress.

Learning Materials and Resources

  • Module updates will be posted on Blackboard, including:

    • Module handbook and teaching team contact details.

    • Assessment information and reading lists, including journal articles rather than textbooks.

  • Suggested research methods:

    • Use Uni library to find relevant publications on chosen products or devices.

    • Explore company websites for additional research.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Critically apply and appraise the scope of medical technology in:

    • Biomedical science, disease diagnosis, prevention, and treatment plus therapy.

    • Surgical technology, prosthetics, and robotics.

  2. Appreciate the enterprise in identifying opportunities to develop new medical technologies plus applications and the key steps involved in the development of novel medical devices and technologies for the commercial market.

Definitions of Enterprise

  • Enterprise includes:

    • Proactive behavior towards innovation despite risks.

    • The ability to tackle new challenges or solve problems.

  • Key characteristics:

    • Creativity and originality in generating new ideas.

    • Financial considerations and sustainability in product development.

Risk Management in Business/Entrepreneurship

  • Risk factors when entering the market include reputational and financial risks.

  • Successful innovations often emerge from addressing identified needs:

    • Importance of financial planning and sustainability in product development strategies.

Success Stories in Medical Technology

  • Companies and innovations from entrepreneurship:

    • Apple and the ongoing development of the iPhone.

    • Dyson’s evolution from vacuum cleaners to a variety of innovative products.

    • Case study of Covid-19 mRNA vaccines developed by BioNTech and Pfizer as an example of rapid biomedical innovation.

Steps to Product Development

  1. Understanding scientific principles and research bases for developing new technologies.

  2. Identifying avenues for innovation and funding sources.

    • Process from concept to trial and market introduction, often takes several years.

  3. Prototype Development: An example cited includes a research prototype for detecting cancer using gas chromatography, indicating lengthy research timelines for market readiness.

Weekly Teaching Schedule

  • Overview includes various topics relating to medical technology:

    • Medicines from microbes.

    • Medical products development.

    • Biosensors and electroanalytical techniques.

    • Robotics and assistive devices.

  • Research sessions to support understanding of case studies:

    • Protection of intellectual property.

    • Unique selling points and competing products.

    • Development hurdles and timelines.

Ethical Considerations

  • Discussion of bioethics related to product developments:

    • Addressing ethical implications and discussions surrounding vaccines and diagnostic technologies.

  • Encouragement for students to incorporate ethical considerations into their case study assessments, expressing critical thinking around the implications of their work.

Conclusion and Engagement

  • Students will be encouraged to share their ideas and engage in discussions throughout the module.

  • Looking forward to questions and feedback as the course progresses.

Important Dates

  • Case study report deadline: January 8, 2 PM.

  • Emphasis on not delaying research and preparation until the last minute for optimal performance and understanding in assessment.

Final Notes

  • Stay proactive in identifying and developing project ideas to maximize engagement and success throughout the module.