Article • Product presentations at Medica 2024

Taiwan offers AI support for surgeons

Future-oriented large-scale investments on the one hand, political unrest on the other: The presentation of award-winning medical technology from Taiwan at Medica in Düsseldorf reflected a year full of changes and challenges. The prize-winning solutions for surgery, intensive care medicine, traumatology and endoscopy once again attracted a large professional audience.

Report: Wolfgang Behrends

With more than 300 participating companies, Taiwan was once again among the frontrunners at the trade fair in 2024, reported James C. F. Huang, Chairman of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA). Huang was delighted to see the start of construction of a major semiconductor factory by Taiwanese industry leader TSMC in Dresden, opening a whole new chapter in the partnership between the two countries. ‘This cooperation demonstrates the robust opportunities for business and technology partnerships between Taiwan and Germany, and we expect this relationship to become even stronger in the coming years,’ he explained during the press conference at the “Taiwan Excellence” pavilion at Medica. The medical technology presented at the trade fair with the TAITRA seal of approval once again demonstrated how Taiwan's companies are driving progress in the healthcare sector with state-of-the-art technology from AI to 3D printing.

Shared values in turbulent times

However, the proven partnership between the countries could soon be put to the test in view of the current political situation, cautioned Jhy-Wey Shieh: ‘It is more important than ever that democratic countries stick together,’ the Taiwanese ambassador explained. Dr Tobias Traupel from the North Rhine-Westphalian Ministry of Economic Affairs made it clear that this message was well received: ‘We are happy to have you with us – as business partners, but also as friends who share our values.’

The Ministerial Director was confident that both countries could make a valuable contribution to shaping the healthcare system of tomorrow by joining forces – from start-ups to global corporations.

After all, medical technology was at the centre of the trade fair stand, with four products being highlighted for their particular innovation. Brain Navi Biotechnology, for example, presented its AI-powered system designed to improve accuracy in neurosurgery. The platform, called “NaoTrac”, uses ‘Surface Mapping Auto-Registration’ technology to create a precise 3D image of the surgical area so that the robotic arm can position the instruments correctly. This reduces the surgeon's workload and ensures greater safety and efficiency, reported Gokhan Zorlubas, Business Development Manager at Brain Navi.

Solutions for the ICU, orthopaedics, and more

Vanessa Wu from MicroBase Technology Corporation then presented a special nebuliser system for use in intensive care medicine. Thanks to particularly fine nebulisation with a particle size of 3 μm, active ingredients can be absorbed particularly well by the lungs, explained the product marketing manager during the presentation of the “LoyalCare” nebuliser. The stay in the ICU can thus be shortened by up to 28%.

Also among the winners of the ‘Taiwan Excellence’ award was Aplus Biotechnology, which employs 3D printing for its customised surgical guide plates. The personalised elements for chest, spine, hand and knee are suitable for a wide range of procedures, from traumatology to orthopaedic procedures, said Marketing Manager Robers Luo.

The manufacturer EndoSemio completed the round of product presentations with a wireless endoscopy system. The device, which is designed for tracheotomies, reduces the risk of puncture and misplacement that often occurs during these minimally invasive procedures, explained Elena Chin. ‘During development, it was important to us that the system is user-friendly and can be used without a steep learning curve so that it supports actual clinical processes,’ the IT engineer added.

ICT expertise for smart medical technology

‘Through our expertise in information and communication technology, we continue to deliver smart medical solutions to meet the changing needs of healthcare worldwide,’ said TAITRA Chairman Huang following the launch of the “Taiwan Excellence” products. The strong annual presence at Medica emphasises the importance of the trade relationship between Taiwan and Germany, and the shared values – democracy, freedom and the rule of law – build a solid basis for leading this economic partnership into a successful future, he concluded.

20.11.2024