On 4 June, we organised the event “Trends in Medical Devices for Personalised Healthcare”, bringing together policymakers, researchers and industry experts to discuss the future of medical devices and their role in advancing personalised healthcare.
The event, co-organised by LINO, SLORD and SwissCore, provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge and explore the latest developments in the field. Participants heard presentations from researchers and innovators from Lithuania, Switzerland and Slovakia, showcasing cutting-edge medical device technologies and solutions.
Among the topics presented were microrobots, deep vein thrombosis monitoring systems and medical implants, highlighting the wide range of innovations shaping the future of healthcare.
In her opening remarks, event moderator Živilė Grabauskė highlighted the growing importance of medical devices in personalised healthcare. She noted that, despite their critical role in diagnosis, monitoring, treatment and rehabilitation, medical devices often receive less attention than other healthcare technologies. The event was organised to bring together experts and stakeholders from across Europe to discuss emerging trends, share perspectives and explore the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of medical device innovation.
The event also featured a presentation by Flora Giorgio, Head of Unit for Medical Devices at DG SANTE, who provided an overview of the European Commission’s proposal to revise the medical devices regulation (MDR) and in vitro diagnostic medical devices regulation (IVDR). The presentation highlighted the Commission’s efforts to simplify regulatory procedures, reduce administrative burden and improve the predictability and efficiency of the regulatory framework, while maintaining high standards of patient safety. These reforms aim to strengthen the competitiveness of the European medical devices sector and support innovation, ensuring that patients continue to benefit from safe, effective and cutting-edge healthcare technologies.
A key presentation from Lithuania was delivered by Dr. Andrius Rapalis, Associate Professor at the Biomedical Engineering Institute of Kaunas University of Technology. He shared insights into the continuous monitoring and prevention of deep vein thrombosis, presenting both the market-ready TeltoHeart smart device and the innovative ThrombUS+ project. Focused on the early detection and diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis, ThrombUS+ is developing a wearable diagnostic solution that integrates artificial intelligence, ultrasound, light reflection rheography and extended reality. The project aims to provide real-time monitoring and decision-support tools for patients and healthcare professionals, contributing to more effective prevention and treatment of vascular diseases.
The presentations and discussions underscored both the opportunities and challenges facing the medical devices sector as it continues to evolve. From regulatory developments to breakthrough technological innovations, the event provided valuable insights into the future of personalised healthcare and highlighted the importance of international collaboration in bringing innovative medical solutions from research to patients.
