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MEDICA.de, your source for the latest industry news and editorial contributions!

Our dedicated editorial team works year-round to present you with high-quality content from the medical technology branch on our industry portal MEDICA.de.

Whether you are interested in high-tech medical products, innovative technologies, medical research, or new treatment methods - with us you will find well-founded articles that will help you stay up to date. Our editorial team closely follows the latest trends, medical advances and technologies.

Editorial articles cover a wide range of topics, including medical technology, medical imaging, diagnostics, digital health, physiotherapy, laboratory & diagnostics, and hospital and practice equipment, among many others. We offer in-depth analysis, expert interviews and informative articles and videos to help you better understand the complexities of the medical world.

We pride ourselves on being a trusted source of information for the medical industry and look forward to keeping you informed throughout the year.

Latest news from the five MEDICA spheres

Image: Robot assisting a person with health issues

Service robots in healthcare: relieve for healthcare personnel

SAKO project by Univ. of Agder integrates service robots in healthcare to ease physical strain on staff and boost care quality.

Image: A detailed image of Caltech's bioresorbable acoustic hydrogel microrobots, which shows rows of structured spheres; Copyright: Hong Han

Microrobots for precision drug delivery

Researchers at Caltech have developed bioresorbable microrobots designed to deliver drugs directly to targeted sites within the body.

Image: The Aurora system on an operating table; Copyright: umg/samer al mhethawi

Defibrillator with sternum electrode implanted

UMG implants Aurora defibrillator with sternum electrode - gentler sudden cardiac arrest therapy for select patient groups.

Image: Professor examines a woman's head with brain simulation/ultrasound; Copyright: University of Plymouth

Ultrasound as a key tool for brain research

Ultrasound evolves into a precise, non-invasive brain tool - Plymouth, Stanford & Attune detail potential and hurdles in PLOS Biology.

Image: Medical plate to assist with securing the surgery field; Copyright: Osaka Metropolitan University

Simplified approach to securing the surgical field

Osaka researchers create expansion plate for robot-assisted heart surgery, giving surgeons more independence and control.

Image: Simulation model of the knee joint; Copyright: Fraunhofer MEVIS

Optimized therapy for cruciate ligament injuries

Fraunhofer MEVIS, UMC Freiburg & Stryker win award for finite element simulation that personalizes cruciate ligament surgery.

Image: Close-up of a neurotechnology experiment: The setup enables the combination of virtual reality technology and non-invasive brain stimulation; Copyright: EPFL

EPFL researchers develop non-invasive neurotechnology

EPFL develops non-invasive neurotech using VR and brain stimulation to boost spatial memory - promising for future dementia treatment.

Surgical staff standing next to a person on a stretcher in the operating room, with a robot-assisted system to the right; Copyright: Fraunhofer ILT, Aachen / Ralf Baumgarten

Robotically assisted laser procedure for spinal surgery

Fraunhofer ILT develops laser tech with optical monitoring and robotics for safer, precise spinal stenosis surgery near the spinal cord.

Image: Two men in an examination room; one sits on an MRI couch, the other stands next to it; Copyright: Dr. Andreas Voskrebenzev/MHH

PREFUL MRI as an alternative to conventional lung imaging

CT scans show lung structure but expose patients to radiation and lack data on regional lung function: posing challenges in lung disease diagnosis.

Image: Hand holding a small vessel containing substance with gold nanoparticles; Copyright: University of Texas at Dallas

Gold nanoparticles for kidney disease detection

UT Dallas researchers find gold nanoparticles enable more accurate kidney disease detection via X-ray, improving diagnostics and therapies.

Image: Image captured by the 3D photoacoustic scanner; Copyright: Dr Nam Huynh

Handheld 3D photoacoustic scanner for disease diagnosis

UCL develops handheld scanner for fast 3D photoacoustic imaging - promising tool for diagnosing cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.

Image: Medical staff talking to a patient in an ambulance; Copyright: Magnus Andersson

Video support in stroke care: Enhancing early diagnosis

Chalmers-led study shows real-time ambulance video to stroke specialists cuts treatment time, boosting recovery chances for stroke patients.

Image: A hand pressing a light switch with its finger, all in red; Copyright: Lars Knaack/INM

Light-controlled tests simplify low cost diagnostics

Freiburg and INM develop bio-based "OptoAssays" using light to diagnose complex diseases affordably and on-site, without mechanical parts.

Image: Surgery in process to implant a device; Copyright: University of Chicago Medicine

Revi neuromodulation: A new approach to UUI treatment

UChicago Medicine performs Illinois’ first Revi implant: minimally invasive device offers new hope for treating urinary urgency incontinence.

Image: Close-up of the Optrell mapping catheter; Copyright: umg/hzg, Eva Meyer-Besting

First time in Germany: use of the new mapping catheter

UMG Heart Center first in Germany to use Optrell catheter - creates high-res heart maps for precise treatment of complex arrhythmias.

Image: Experimental setup of optical components for two-photon microscope; Copyright: Molly M Bechtel, University of California, Davis

Two-photon microscope enables faster, less harmful brain imaging

UC Davis researchers develop two-photon microscope for high-speed, cellular-resolution imaging of neural activity.

Image: Close-up of a small hexagonal container filled with red liquid, placed inside a clear experimental setup; Copyright: University of Rochester photo / J. Adam Fenster

Ultrasound promotes blood vessel growth in damaged tissue

University of Rochester team uses ultrasound to stimulate blood vessel growth - promising for wound healing and reconstructive surgery.

Image: Image of the Diadem device featuring a headband-like structure with ultrasound emitters on either side, intended to stimulate deep brain regions; Copyright: University of Utah

Ultrasound device shows for chronic pain treatment

University of Utah develops Diadem, a noninvasive ultrasound device targeting deep brain regions to treat chronic pain resistant to other therapies.

Image: Man holding stretched 3D-printed material with purple gloves; Copyright: Casey Cass/CU Boulder

3D printed custom implants for the heart

CU Boulder and UPenn develop advanced 3D printing for tissue-supportive materials - boosting personalized implants and tissue repair.

Image: Images of an ear captured with an otoscopic video camera; Copyright: W. Kim et al., doi 10.1117/1.JBO.29.8.086005.

OCT otoscope enhances ear disease diagnosis

USC develops portable otoscope with OCT for high-res imaging of the ear: enhancing diagnostics and improving patient outcomes.

Image: Electrical stimulation in pain therapy on the neck of a woman

Novel electrical stimulation for the treatment of cancer pain

UMG develops non-invasive brain stimulation for cancer pain as part of the international PAINLESS project.

Image: Robots interacting with people in a room; Copyright: University of Stuttgart, Institute for Artifical Intelligence

Robotics Institute Germany: AI-based robotics

Germany launches Robotics Institute (RIG), led by TUM & KIT, to become a global leader in AI robotics.

Image: Medical staff carry cool box on the aircraft.

Improved outcomes with "heart-in-a-box" technology

Gothenburg study shows "heart-in-a-box" perfusion boosts heart transplant outcomes vs. traditional cold storage.

Image: Two researchers working in a laboratory; Copyright: Anna Stafford/Rice University

Smallest free-floating bubbles developed for medical imaging

Rice University develops ultrasmall gas-filled protein nanostructures, advancing ultrasound imaging and targeted drug delivery.

Image: surgical operation in operating room; Copyright: Kindai University

New surgical approach for scimitar syndrome

Kindai University team, led by Prof. Sakaguchi, successfully uses modified Double-Decker Technique to treat rare Scimitar Syndrome in a 2-year-old.

Image: The image shows two portraits of men on the left and right sides, with a portrait of a woman in the center; Copyright: Elvira Eberhardt / Ulm University, FSJD-CERCA

Digital training platform to boost mental health in adolescents

EU project IMPROVA, with Ulm University, launches eHealth platform to boost adolescent mental health.

Image: High-tech operating room with a large robotic arm; Copyright: Fraunhofer IPA

The role of 5G technology in hybrid operating rooms

The 5G-OR project unites German and French teams to enhance surgery with 5G and AI: enabling hybrid ORs, remote ops, and real-time monitoring.

Image: Person standing in front of a large screen with brain scans; Copyright: Liz Kaye, Indiana University

AI in brain cancer diagnosis, monitoring and treatment

The Lancet Oncology publishes AI guidelines for brain cancer - aiming for objective tumor assessment and improved, standardized care.

Image: Small wearable patch for measuring blood pressure placed on a fingertip; Copyright: David Baillot/UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering

Wearable ultrasound patch for blood pressure monitoring

UC San Diego develops wearable ultrasound patch for continuous, noninvasive blood pressure monitoring.

Image: Flexible exletroceutical patch placed on an arm; Copyright: Saehyun Kim, the University of Chicago

Tackling antibiotic resistance with electrical stimulation

UChicago and UCSD develop flexible bioelectronic patch that uses gentle electrical signals to fight drug-resistant skin infections.

Image: Explanatory picture of the XR simulator; Copyright: Noriyo Colley, et al. Journal of Nursing Care & Reports. September 30, 2024

Addressing a growing demand for pediatric care: XR simulator

Hokkaido University develops Simmar+ESTE-SIM XR simulator for realistic pediatric nursing training in procedures like ventilation and suctioning.

Image: Robotic sensory cilia to monitor internal biomarkers up close; Copyright: Vanderbilt University

Artificial cilia system for real-time airway disease monitoring

Vanderbilt’s Xiaoguang Dong and team develop artificial cilia to monitor mucus in human airways - advancing respiratory health monitoring.

Image: Example illustration of the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion test; Copyright: UZH

AI supports the detection of antibiotic resistance

University of Zurich pilot study shows GPT-4 AI can help identify antibiotic-resistant bacteria, easing lab diagnostics and aiding global resistance efforts.

Image: Five people standing next to each other and smiling into the camera; Copyright: DGKL

AI improves leukemia diagnostics: award for Dresden

Drs. Middeke and Eckardt of Dresden University Hospital win 15,000 euros DGKL award for AI-powered bone marrow diagnostics in leukemia detection.

Image: Image from a simulation of an electric field from the upper body and heart in the chest of a human; Copyright: arterioscope - TU Graz

Early detection: machine learning in cardiovascular diagnostics

Graz University of Technology develops ML method analyzing electric fields to detect cardiovascular diseases early.

Image: A transparent, flexible electronic device wrapped around a fingertip featuring visible circuits and components printed on a thin, stretchable material; Copyright: Shichao Ding

Sweat-powered finger wrap enables health monitoring

UC San Diego engineers create sweat-powered finger wrap that noninvasively tracks glucose, lactate, vitamin C.

Image: Two men standing next to each other, each holding a pair of VR glasses; Copyright: Rolf Müller/Universitätsklinikums Bonn (UKB)

VIRTOSHA: Training in surgery using VR technology

Bonn University Hospital, Cologne UAS, and partners develop VIRTOSHA VR platform to train surgeons in realistic virtual surgical environments.

Image: Researcher in a white coat standing in a laboratory; Copyright: Markus Fischer/Paul Scherrer Institute PSI

AI for the characterization of breast cancer stages

PSI and MIT study shows AI can enhance breast cancer stage classification, improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.

Image: Person demonstrating the use of a gastrointestinal model to test AI-driven ingestible sensors in a lab setting; Copyright: Khan Lab at USC Viterbi School of Engineering

Smart pills with AI for health monitoring

USC Viterbi researchers create AI-powered ingestible sensors for real-time 3D GI monitoring - enabling early disease detection via smart pills.

Image: AI-based measurement tool for images

AI-based mapping of the brain’s choroid plexus

NIH grants $1 millionen to researchers developing AI-based 3D measurement of the choroid plexus - advancing insight into brain and spinal cord function.

Image: soft and stretchy ultrasound patch to continuously monitor blood flow in the brain; Copyright: David Baillot/UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering

Wearable ultrasound patch: cerebral blood flow monitoring

UC San Diego engineers develop soft, wearable ultrasound patch for continuous, noninvasive 3D monitoring of cerebral blood flow.

Image: The monitoring patch next to a 25-cent coin for scale.; Copyright: University of Waterloo

Monitoring of critical health data with wearable patch

McMaster and Waterloo researchers develop pain-free wearable patch for continuous glucose and health monitoring.

Image: endoscopic instrument is being prepared for a gastroscopy

AI supports diagnostics during gastroscopies

The GI-Insight project, led by Würzburg and Charles University, develops AI to enhance precision and safety in gastroscopy diagnostics.

Digital Twins: Transforming Infant Healthcare

University of Galway and Heidelberg University develop sex-specific digital baby models to simulate infant metabolism.

Image: Woman working on a computer with data and support from an AI

Supporting nursing staff: AI in long-term care

Fraunhofer ITWM’s ViKI pro project uses AI to help care professionals assess individual needs and plan personalized care measures.

Image: Yellow smart sensor is being put on an arm; Copyright: Jia Zhu/Penn State

Smart skin monitors biological signals on demand

Penn State develops adhesive, writable skin sensors for health monitoring - easily removable and reprogrammable with tape.

Image: Smart contact lens with golden lines; Copyright: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces 2024, DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c02289

A Step Forward in Glaucoma Diagnosis: 'Smart' Contact Lens

Researchers develop smart contact lens for continuous eye pressure monitoring, offering earlier glaucoma detection.

Image: A close-up picture of a capsule; Copyright: Gerard Cummins, University of Birmingham

Swallowable sensors for health monitoring

Heriot-Watt, Birmingham & Edinburgh researchers develop ingestible capsule with sensors to track gut movement.

Image: Three researchers smiling at the camera while showcasing their app on a tablet; Copyright: Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

WellFeet app: Empowering diabetic patients

NTU Singapore leads development of WellFeet app to help diabetes patients and caregivers track meds, activity, and diet while boosting education.

Image: A medical professional in surgical gloves performs a delicate procedure on a patient's eye, who is lying down with a protective face mask and surgical drape.

Enhancing cataract surgery in the global south with AI

University Hospital Bonn, Sankara Eye Foundation & Microsoft India use AI video analysis to boost cataract surgery outcomes in the Global South.

Image: The picture shows the researchers who have developed a method that makes the identification of genes involved in diseases easier; Copyright: Felix Heyder / University Hospital Bonn

New method for gene identification in medical research

University of Bonn and UKB develop NIS-Seq, a groundbreaking method to rapidly identify disease-related genes in human cells.

Image: A man sits at a desk, pointing to a computer screen displaying a visual presentation about proton therapy; Copyright: Jefferson Lab photo/Lindsay Cunningham

Proton therapy as a safer cancer treatment alternative

Jefferson Lab study explores proton therapy as a safer cancer treatment alternative to isotope-based radiotherapy, aiming to reduce radiological risks.

Image: Small device for detecting colorectal and prostate cancer; Copyright: The University of Texas at El Paso

Low-cost biochip for rapid cancer detection developed at UTEP

UTEP’s Dr. Xiujun Li develops low-cost, portable biochip that detects colorectal and prostate cancer in under an hour.

Image: Researcher using a pipette to implant cells in a device in a laboratory setting: Copyright: J. Adam Fenster / University of Rochester

New tissue-on-chip technology to study viral neuroinflammation

BARDA funds $2.4 million grant project to model lung-brain connection and develop therapies for viral infection symptoms like brain fog.

Image: Monitors on a desk showing various kinds of data; Copyright: Anna Schroll/Leibniz-HKI

Investigating gut microbiome in tumor cachexia

EU-funded MiCCrobioTAckle project, led by Leibniz-HKI, studies gut microbiome's role in cancer cachexia and trains 12 PhDs in microbiota medicine.

Image: Researcher using the new "acoustic pipette" for blood testing in a laboratory setting; Copyright: Patrick Campbell/CU Boulder

Easier way to test blood at the bedside

CU Boulder develops handheld sound-wave device for blood biomarker detection - delivers sensitive results in under 70 minutes.

Image: Woman smiling at the camera while holding point-of-care testing equipment in a laboratory setting; Copyright: Sylvester Cancer

Mouthwash test for predicting head and neck cancer recurrence

Study from Sylvester Cancer Center, UCSD & partners finds mouthwash-based test may predict head and neck cancer recurrence.

Image: Colorful cell organoid of a retina with a yellow dot of DNA; Copyright: Cassian Afting, AG Wittbrodt

Controlling organoid development

Heidelberg University and Max Planck researchers develop molecular engineering method using DNA microspheres to control organoid growth and complexity.

Image: A researcher in a pink lab coat works with a pipette while another scientist in a white lab coat supervises the process in a laboratory setting; Copyright: Gustavo Raskosky

Superhydrophobic device to model tumor progression

Rice University bioengineers mimic lotus leaf to create a novel platform for culturing cancer cell clusters.

Image: Comparison of two tissue sections of a lung, on the left a traditional histological section in pink, on the right a digitized and color-coded tissue section; Copyright: Dr. Yuri Tolkach

AI-supported platform improves lung cancer diagnostics

University Hospital Cologne develops AI platform for fast, precise lung cancer tissue analysis - enhancing diagnostics and treatment insights.

Image: Fluorescence microscopy image of a lab-grown "mini-gut" organoid, displaying intricate structures in blue and red; Copyright: Thomas Dennison/University of Cambridge

Lab-grown 'mini-guts' for Crohn’s disease treatments

University of Cambridge creates lab-grown mini-guts to study Crohn’s disease - offering insights for personalized, effective treatments.

Image: A close-up of a tube for a tuberculosis test in the laboratory

New biomarker predicts side effects of tuberculosis therapy

Leibniz Lung Center researchers identify biomarker predicting nerve disease risk during tuberculosis treatment.

Image: Fluorescence image of cells in a culture dish; Copyright: S. Rieck/University Hospital Bonn (UKB)

Generation of endothelial cells from stem cells

University of Bonn and UKB develop efficient, low-cost method to generate functional endothelial cells from human iPSCs.

Image: A researcher places cells in a centrifuge.

Identifying a biomarker for gastric cancer recurrence risk

MedUni Vienna study identifies AF1Q gene as key biomarker for gastric cancer relapse - enabling more personalized treatment.

Image: Image of a 3D printed blood vessel; Copyright: Dr Norbert Radasci, School of Engineering, University of Edinburgh

3D-printed blood vessels for heart bypass surgery

University of Edinburgh develops 3D-printed blood vessels mimicking human veins - offering safer, improved outcomes for heart bypass surgery.

Image: Miniature, implantable LED device on the palm of a hand; Copyright: University of Notre Dame

LED Implant: A new approach to deep-seated cancer treatment

University of Notre Dame develops implantable wireless LED device that, with light-sensitive dye, kills deep cancers and activates immune response.

Image: Two researchers standing in a laboratory, wearing red light goggles and holding an agar plate in their hands; Copyright: UBT/Andreas Möglich

Red light as the key to gene activity control

University of Bayreuth study reveals bacterial gene control via red light, unlocking new biotech applications.

Image: Close-up of an FFP2 mask; Copyright: Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center

Tuberculosis diagnosis in children with modified FFP2 mask

Diagnosing TB in children is difficult since they rarely produce sputum, unlike adults - making standard genetic tests less effective.

Image: Laboratory procedure for the cryopreservation of ovarian tissue; Copyright: Alessandro Winkler University Hospital Bonn (UKB)

Successful birth after vitrification of ovarian tissue

University Hospital Bonn (UKB) establishes vitrification for ovarian tissue cryopreservation - preserving fertility before cancer treatments.

Image: Two people in white coats look at a monitor displaying data on genetic material; Copyright: Karin Kaiser/MHH

Heart health: New tool developed to investigate telomere length

MHH researchers develop molecular tool to study telomerase's role in heart muscle cell development.

Image: Scientist pipettes cells into a test tube in a a laboratory setting

New findings on short-term cultivated CAR T cells

CAR T cell therapy offers new hope for blood cancer patients - genetically engineered to target specific antigens.

Image: A researcher cultivates bacteria on an agar plate in a laboratory

Plasmids in the human intestine

University of Oldenburg-led study finds gut plasmid as potential biomarker for detecting fecal contamination and monitoring IBD.

Image: Man sitting before a monitor showing data from a microscope in the foreground while a woman in the background is looking through a microscope; Copyright: MPIKG

Harnessing light to control cellular dynamics

Max Planck team led by Rumiana Dimova develops light-based technique to control cell dynamics - enabling precise, non-invasive drug delivery.

Image: Dorsal root ganglia expressing CGRP after muscle injury; Copyright: Mikaël M. Martino

Unveiling the role of sensory neurons in tissue repair

Monash and Osaka University research reveals sensory neurons' crucial role in tissue repair - advancing the field of regenerative medicine.

Image: Depiction of the bioelectronic mesh in purple and green with red graphene sensors; Copyright: Gao et al., 10.1038/s41467-024-46636-7

Bioelectronic mesh for cardiac tissue monitoring

UMass Amherst engineers develop graphene-based bioelectronic mesh to monitor movement and electrical signals in lab-grown human heart tissue.

Image: Two scientists wearing lab coats and safety goggles operate a material testing machine in a laboratory; Copyright: University of Oregon

Implantable sensors provide insights into bone recovery

Advanced sensors could improve recovery outcomes for patients with severe bone injuries.

Image: Doctor and a patient wearing a neck brace practice muscle exercises for daily tasks, such as holding a smartphone; Copyright: Heidelberg University Hospital

Rehabilitation after spinal cord injuries with antibodies

Research into antibodies that promote nerve regeneration after spinal cord injuries has delivered promising results.

Image: Person wears an exoskeleton for the leg that can support and relieve strain during movements.

"WalkON" make walking easier and promote mobility

TUM develops "WalkON" robotic shorts to reduce energy use while walking or jogging - boosting mobility for older adults and those with health issues.

Image: AI model of a hand to research motor manipulation; Copyright: EPFL / UNIGE

AI enhances understanding of hand movement

EPFL’s Prof. Alexander Mathis and team develop AI model for detailed hand movement analysis - advancing neuroprosthetics and rehab tech.

Image: Picture showing how the foldable pouch actuators improve soft rehabilitation gloves; Copyright: Chiba University

New actuator improves finger extension in rehab gloves

Soft rehab gloves aid hand recovery using air-driven actuators, but most excel at finger bending and struggle with straightening.

Image: On the left, a man is sitting while wearing an exoskeleton. There is a woman talking to the man and trying to help him get up.

Mobile patient lifts enhance ICU patient recovery

Tokyo study shows early mobilization with mobile lifts boosts recovery in ventilated ICU patients - enhancing overall outcomes.

Image: Biomechanical carbon hand prosthesis for disabled people on the table in the office, another white prosthesis in the background; Copyright: ionadidishvili

Hand prostheses: AI makes gripping more intuitive

A 128-sensor network and AI enable better insight into forearm muscle patterns - improving intuitive control of artificial limbs.

Image: Kim Peper (in the middle) stands on the GyroTrainer board. Elisabeth Jensen (front left) determines the individual stiffness, right: Jan Lang; Copyright: Andreas Heddergott / TUM

GyroTrainer with AI: Individual back training machine

The GyroTrainer is a smart balance board that uses AI to adapt training difficulty to each patient’s current ability.

Image: Prosthesis: 3D-printed plastics polylactic acid and thermoplastic polyurethane. Each finger contains four parts held together by plastic pins; Copyright: University of Houston

3D printable prostheses to restore amputees' finger mobility

University of Houston graduate develops easy-to-use, 3D-printable finger prosthesis - offering amputees an affordable way to restore function.

Image: Close-up of a sensor bracelet demonstrator; Copyright: Fraunhofer IBMT

Bidirectional control of prosthetic hands

Researchers at Fraunhofer are working as part of an EU research project to improve control of prosthetic hands down to individual fingers.

Image: Young girl does movement exercises with a tension band; Copyright: University of Jyväskylä

Cerebral Palsy: multicomponent exercise

University of Jyväskylä study shows tailored exercise boosts motor skills, strength, and joint mobility in youth with cerebral palsy.

Image: A woman sits on a prototype of an optimized office chair; Copyright: TU Dresden

Sensor and software to promote office staff’s physical activity

TU Dresden develops office chair sensor and software to promote mindful movement and healthier habits during desk work.

Image: A device for monitoring arm movements, part of the post-stroke rehabilitation system; Copyright: KTU

AI-based system will help people after stroke

KTU and Lithuanian researchers, led by Rytis Maskeliūnas, develop AI-based system to support and enhance the rehabilitation process.

Image: Patient wearing a prosthetic arm directly attached to the skeleton and neuromuscular system; Copyright: Chalmers University of Technology

Bionic hand: unprecedented control

For the first time, a person with an arm amputation can control each bionic finger individually.

Image: Patient and doctor are looking at and discussing the x-ray of a spine; Copyright: Pressmaster

AI supports rehabilitation after spinal cord injury

Researchers from FAU, Heidelberg University, and Heidelberg University Hospital are developing an AI-powered suit to enhance rehab after spinal cord injury.

Image: A man walks in a garden with an ankle exo suit on his lower left leg; Copyright: Biodesign Lab / Harvard SEAS

Independence for post-stroke wearers

A new exosuit designed for community use helps stroke survivors improve gait in daily life - enabling rehab beyond the lab.

Image: Two men and a woman pose with the BIXEPS device; Copyright: National University of Singapore

Magnetic muscle therapy improves mobility

NUS researchers pioneer magnetic muscle therapy that may reverse age-related decline in mobility, strength, and body composition.

Image: The carrier of the ARM2U team, Kyle Briggs, competing with the prosthesis at a Cybathlon 2023 event; Copyright: BarcelonaTech (UPC)

Low-cost robotic arm: an alternative prosthese

UPC’s ARM2u team develops a low-cost, 3D-printed robotic arm prosthesis enhancing accessibility and expanding its functions.

Image: Elderly woman in physical rehabilitation with a dumbbell assisted by a physiotherapist; Copyright: bialasiewicz

Physical activity crucial for poststroke recovery

University of Gothenburg study finds stroke survivors who exercise 4 hours/week recover better within 6 months than less active patients.

Image: ARC trial participant in active therapy: ARC Therapy is designed to deliver targeted, programmed spinal cord stimulation; Copyright: ONWARD Medical NV

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network "ReWIRE"

ReWIRE trains next-gen scientists to develop breakthrough therapies for paralysis from spinal cord injuries, advancing translational medical solutions.

Image: An insole is made on a 3D printer; Copyright: Marco Binelli / ETH Zürich

3D-printed insoles measure sole pressure directly in the shoe

ETH Zurich, Empa, and EPFL develop 3D-printed insoles with built-in sensors to measure sole pressure during real-life activities.

Image: Balance exercises outdoors. Mature woman standing on one leg exercising balance; Copyright: microgen

Poor balance may indicate changes in brain volume

University of Tsukuba study finds hippocampus volume linked to balance ability in healthy older adults.

Image: old man falls to the ground and touches his forehead; Copyright: LightFieldStudios

Balance ability predicts cognitive impairment

University of Tsukuba study unveils new physical balance measure to help identify individuals at risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

$Image: X-ray of the hip with a hip fracture; Copyright: Booyabazooka$

Mechanical stimulation could be used to prevent falls

Aston University research shows mechanical vibrations stimulate muscle spindles, aiding balance and muscle control for better posture and gait.

Image: Usability testing of the fixator with a bone; Copyright: Imperial College London

Affordable device for fixing broken bones

Imperial researchers create low-cost, easy-to-make bone stabiliser to aid fracture care in resource-limited regions.

Image: Picture of a water-powered, electronics-free dressing (WPED) for electrical stimulation of wounds; Copyright: Rajaram Kaveti

Electric bandage promotes faster healing

Researchers have developed a cost-effective bandage that uses an electric field to accelerate the healing of chronic wounds.

Image: wearable bioelectronic system displayed on a finger in green gloves; Copyright: Wei Gao, California Institute of Technology

Smart bandages: Advancing chronic wound treatment

A team of researchers from is developing advanced electronic bandages and other tools to improve the monitoring and healing of chronic wounds.

Image: The image shows a hand with slight burn injuries

UGRSKIN: artificial skin as a game-changer in burn treatment

University of Granada develops UGRSKIN, an artificial skin by the Tissue Engineering Group, offering advanced treatment and improved outcomes for severe burns.

Image: In the middle of this excerpt of a graphic there is a human body, visualizing the function of the underwater bio-adhesive for healing inner wounds; Copyright: POSTECH

Tailored medical adhesives for personalized healing

POSTECH’s Prof. Hyung Joon Cha and team develop personalized underwater bio-adhesive patches from mussel proteins.

Image: Two women looking at a display of cells on a monitor; Copyright: University of Jyväskylä

Antiviral resin destroys COVID-19 from plastic surfaces

University of Jyväskylä researchers pioneer antiviral surfaces to curb infectious disease spread, with a focus on coronaviruses.

Image: Two people in a laboratory working with a nanoparticle paste and light. Copyright: Empa

Smart wound sealing with nanoparticles and light soldering

Empa researchers have pioneered a novel soldering process that employs nanoparticles and lasers to gently fuse tissue, ushering in a new era in wound closure.

Image: Plasma ignition of the plasma source used: The plasma is visible here in a so-called filamentous discharge in the form of small purple flashes; Copyright: RUB, Marquard

Sterilization: how bacteria defend themselves against plasmas

Ruhr University Bochum team finds bacteria overproducing Hsp33 protein are more resistant to plasma treatment, revealing key microbial defense mechanism.

Image: inexpensive do-it-yourself (DIY) “Corsi-Rosenthal Box” air purifier; Copyright: UConn photo

EPA testing shows the power of D-I-Y air filters to trap viruses

Protect against flu, RSV, and COVID-19 with a low-cost Corsi-Rosenthal box - build it in 30 minutes for around $60 using hardware store supplies.

Image: Close-up of a boy with a healed minor cut after surgical tape stitches; Copyright: ellinnur

Biomaterials: toolbox for the development of bioadhesives

Prof. Thomas Scheibel’s team at University of Bayreuth publishes a comprehensive review on the current state of protein-based bioadhesive research.

Image: dr Jasmina Gačanin poses for the camera in a hallway; Copyright: Max-Planck-Institut für Polymerforschung

Jasmina Gačanin investigates living biomaterials

Dr. Jasmina Gačanin, postdoc at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, has been named a Peretti-Schmucker Fellow.

Image: Symbolic photo: It shows a used CytoSorb® cartridge; Copyright: Karin Kaiser / MHH

Adsorber in blood purification: widely used, no proven benefit

MHH meta-study finds CytoSorb blood purification may not reduce mortality and could be harmful in critically ill patients despite widespread hospital use.

Image: A scientist in lab uniform inspects a smooth surface; Copyright: StreetOncamara_From_Twenty20

Next generation of antimicrobial coating technologies

Researchers in the NOVA project develop and test eco-friendly, stable antimicrobial coatings effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

Image: The hydrogel composite is demonstratively stretched by Alexandre Anthis; Copyright: Empa

Sensor patch for abdominal surgery

Empa and ETH Zurich researchers develop sensor-equipped plaster to monitor and ensure post-op abdominal wounds stay securely closed.

Image: Woman with glasses and gray-brown hair, Carole Planchette, stands by a pillar; Copyright: Fotogenia - Renate Trummer

New production of biocompatible microfibres

Carole Planchette and team develop a cost-effective method to produce biocompatible microfibres, accelerating autologous skin and organ production.

Image: The surface of a door handle is cleaned with disinfectant; Copyright: Ruhr-Universitaet-Bochum

Hygiene: monkeypox viruses relatively stable on surfaces

Ruhr University Bochum study finds monkeypox virus can survive on stainless steel for 11 days at room temp, and up to a month at 4°C.

Image: Prof. Dr. Thomas Scheibel and Vanessa Trossmann in a laboratory for the microscopic examination of cell structures; Copyright: UBT / Chr. Wißler.

Cell-specific properties of novel spider silk materials

University of Bayreuth researchers discover spider silk materials can be tailored to support specific cell growth and adhesion.

Image: Daniel Aili, professor at the Department of Physics, man with brown hair and glasses, smiles at the camera; Copyright: Magnus Johansson

Wound dressing reveals infection

A nanocellulose wound dressing that can reveal early signs of infection without interfering with the healing process has been developed.

Image: A smart bandage rests on a gloved finger.; Copyright: Caltech

'Smart' bandages monitor wounds and provide treatment

Caltech’s Wei Gao and team develop smart bandages to treat chronic wounds - making care easier, more effective, and affordable.

Image: Newborn baby lies on his stomach in an incubator; Copyright: mvaligursky

Incubators: reduce alcohol absorbed from disinfectants used

Researchers find that evaporated alcohol from disinfectants in incubators correlates with alcohol absorption in premature infants.

Image: Pipette adding sample to stem cell cultures growing in pots for stem cell implantation; Copyright: imagesourcecurated

Electrodes grown in the brain

Swedish researchers from Linköping, Lund, and Gothenburg universities grow electrodes in living tissue using body’s molecules.

Image: Xing Xie is holding holding a chip in close up; Copyright: Georgia Tech

New ultrafast water disinfection method

Georgia Tech researchers develop low-energy electric shock method to disinfect water - cutting costs and environmental impact.

Image: A man in a white coat and with safety goggles, Hongji Yan, holds a test tube in his hand and is looking at the camera; Copyright: Vaibhav Srivastava

Mucus-based gel improves bone graft results, promotes healing

Molecules from mucus can be used to produce synthetic bone graft material and help with the healing of larger bone loss, a new study found.

Image: A white electrospun Renacer membrane (5 x 5 cm) on a black background; Copyright: Fraunhofer ISC

Bioresorbable membrane for healing wounds

Fraunhofer researchers use bioresorbable silica gel Renacer to create an electrospun membrane that is non-cytotoxic and non-genotoxic.

Image: A woman with black hair in a white coat sits in a research laboratory and operates a microscope; Copyright: wichayada69

Produce biodegradable antiviral and antibacterial materials

A new junior research group receives €1.8 million from BMBF to develop biodegradable antiviral and antibacterial materials as antibiotic alternatives.

Image: Close-up of the healing process of a corneal ulcer, postoperative results in vivo; Copyright: POSTECH

Treating cornea ulcers with diagnostic light

A POSTECH-KKU team in Korea develops light-activated tissue adhesive that restores damaged corneas with a simple fill-and-cure approach.

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