Category: Future of MedTech

Breakthrough Link For Parkinson and MND Sufferers

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Facts and figures:

Researchers chose 19 patients for the trial, who were assigned to three different dose cohorts throughout six, 28-day cycle periods. Those in the highest dose group, who took 72mg of CuATSM per day, reported vast improvements in quality of life and symptom severity.

A recent trial of 32 motor neurone disease patients also found CuATSM slowed the progression of the disease and improved cognitive and motor ability.

Ask the expert:

Neurologist Dr Andrew Evans from the Royal Melbourne Hospital:

“The impact has been that (patients) feel better, but also it gives them hope for the future that they are not going to decline in the same way that most patients will do.”

The details:

For more information about clinical trials at The Royal Melbourne Hospital visit www.thermh.org.au/research/clinical-trials

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New theatre investment improves surgical outcomes

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Olympus VISERA ELITE II System with 4K, 3D and Infrared surgical modes are designed to increase accuracy, speed and precision during surgery and have been made available in eight of the hospitals 16 theatres.

Seven of these are mobile, meaning they can be moved to each specialist theatre and one is fixed and offers 4K, 3D and Infrared (IR) capabilities.

The system offers different observation possibilities such as narrow band imaging and infrared imaging. Infrared imaging is particularly important for gynaecological oncology procedures such as sentinel lymph node mapping, colorectal liver metastases and biliary identification during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

The hospital has also acquired an additional system – the Olympus 4K System.

The Olympus 4K surgical platform to be used for primary and revisional laparoscopic procedures, offers true 4K image quality at four times the resolution of Full HD and utilises a wider colour gamut (BT2020) with over one billion colour combinations allowing for greater accuracy, speed and precision during surgery.

Improved patient outcomes

Perioperative Services Manager Dave Ramsay said the two new systems will be used for a range of surgical procedures in the areas of Upper GI, Bariatric, Colorectal, General, Gynaecology, Cardio Thoracic and ENT.

“Having the cutting-edge laparoscopic systems in our theatres means surgeons have the ultimate view of their surgical field,” he said.

“As one surgeon aptly put it, it means they have a view of open surgery combined with the magnification of a telescope.”

CEO, Ben Edwards said investing in the latest technologies was imperative for patient care.

“We are proud to have such highly-skilled specialists using these cutting-edge technologies across the hospital and we will continue to invest in future medical technologies which support improved patient outcomes,” he said.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

3D Printing Is Changing Personalised Medicine, Finds IDTechEx Report

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  • OK, tell me more: A new report published by technology research company IDTechEx shows 3D printing – soon to be an $8.1 billion industry by 2029 – is disrupting the way personalised medicine is provided.

3D printing for the medical and dental industry is helping to cut lead time, reduce waste and offers the opportunity for mass customisation. Imagine having the power to create a custom fit medical device right from your desktop.

  • In our own backyard: In Australia the adoption of 3D printing technology in the health sector is still in the early stages. It’s likely that as personalised medical devices, enabled by technologies such as 3D printing, extend into higher risk medical devices the potential risk for patients will increase. The proposed changes to the current medial device regulatory framework in Australia seeks to ensure adequate regulation of personalised medical devices (including 3D printed devices).

KEY INSIGHT: The report found 3D printing improves surgical standards and improves efficiency, resulting in better outcomes for patients. Customised medical devices can result in better functional and aesthetic outcomes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Clinical trials and disruptive technologies: a case for collaboration

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Introduction: clinical trials in Australia

Technology is significantly transforming the clinical trials landscape, as businesses in the life sciences recognise the benefit of leveraging new technologies that improve clinical data quality and reduce the overall trial timeline.

A 2017 report from the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial registry revealed that Australia ranks in the top tier of national clinical trial activity, estimated to be worth around $1 billion to the Australian economy.[1]

Indeed if Australia is to cement its expertise in the Asia-Pacific region, and continue to prove itself a popular destination for early phase studies, it must ensure that clinical trials are intertwined with technology that enables more efficient trials and smarter drug development.

As clinical trials in Australia already enjoy myriad domestic advantages, including a diverse population as well as strong government support and incentives, harnessing new technologies and big data will ensure these circumstances are long-lived.

Beyond the new technologies enabling the clinical trials sector, there are other important trends at play.

Globally, collaboration in life sciences is allowing businesses to solve problems that are too large and complex in nature for single companies to solve alone. The combination therapies that will result are expected to become extremely powerful.

Recruitment into clinical trials remains a challenge for the sector, however, the disruptive technologies currently being embraced will allow for more personalised solutions that improve the patient experience.

Technology and clinical trials

Exactly how technology is improving clinical trials and enabling a higher standard of healthcare is in part, through its ability to make sense of the growing volumes of data being produced every day.

The clinical trials process involves having to accommodate an incredible variety of data and content from various sources; from traditional clinical data, to real world data, to high-resolution images and so on.

Embracing technologies that are able to capture and utilise these large data sets assists in managing the growing complexities of clinical trials, namely the standardisation, reconciliation and integrity of data.

The role of intelligent clinical solutions must also be acknowledged, which utilise new technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyse and detect anomalies in data.

An example of these nascent capabilities includes the identification of novel biomarkers for Castleman disease by Medidata and the Castleman Disease Collaborative Network (CDCN).

The discoveries provided novel insights into treatment response and potential new drug targets, demonstrating the benefit of harnessing data for smarter drug development.

Likewise is the recent launch of Medidata’s AI-as-a-Service outfit, Acorn AI, which leverages the business’ standardised clinical data storehouse and AI capabilities to personalise and optimise clinical trials, and support decision making.

It is disruptive technologies like these that businesses in the life sciences must continue to embrace in order to drive meaningful transformation and add value for clinical trials, the patients involved and the entire healthcare system.

What’s ahead for clinical trials in Australia

 According to Deloitte’s 2019 Global Life Sciences outlook report, life science businesses that adopt digital technologies and platforms will benefit from stronger engagement with patients, deeper insights from clinical trials and a shorter clinical trial timeline.

However, to ensure we’re realising the full potential of disruptive technologies in life sciences, regulation must become more agile and evolve to foster innovation.

Similarly, an interoperable system that facilitates information sharing will ensure Australia is making the most of big data and analytics.  Data sharing through modern platforms such as wearables and social media supports greater engagement and understanding of patients who are participating in clinical trials.

These developments redefine the role of trial participants – from subjects to collaborators – enhancing their overall experience and helping to overcome challenges associated with recruitment into clinical trials.

Beyond digital transformation, collaboration across life sciences will also play an integral role. In 2019, collaborative approaches will be key for working with patients and regulators, advancing drug development and the Internet of Medical Things.[2]

Big data-driven insights will transform patient care and enhance the productivity of trials.

As Australia looks to establish itself as a popular destination for early phase studies, the future of the Australian clinical trials sector must be intertwined with technology.

[1] http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/Clinical-Trials

[2] https://www2.deloitte.com/global/en/pages/life-sciences-and-healthcare/articles/global-life-sciences-sector-outlook.html

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Andrew Gebbie, Principle Solution Consultant, Medidata Solutions APeJ[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

AUSTRADE ASSISTANCE FOR EXPORT AND INVESTMENT IN AUSTRALIAN MEDTECH – By Shelley Jackson

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Austrade is the federal government agency responsible for trade and investment promotion, and we have a particular focus on promoting Australian health and medtech industry capabilities to international customers, key opinion leaders and investors. As we talk to these people we hear that Australia’s strong economic position – our economy is in its 28th year of consecutive annual economic growth[i] – is a powerful driver of local growth and an incentive for investment.  Australia is also one of the largest healthcare markets in the Asia-Pacific region, with an ageing and affluent population.

Austrade has staff in around 80 international offices, so we know that while our medical devices and diagnostics are globally regarded, this is a fast-paced and competitive industry. Whether you’re an Australian company ready to internationalise your business or an international company looking for productive foreign direct investment opportunities within Australia, Austrade can assist.

For Australian export-ready companies, Austrade has a range of information tools and customised services to help you do business overseas and understand foreign regulations and business practices. With experienced local staff in offices around the world, we can provide market information and insights, and facilitate connections through our extensive global network.

For international companies, we provide the contacts and information (in partnership with State and Territory governments and allies) to establish or expand your business successfully in Australia, and have assisted companies such as Fresenius Kabi Australia to build their investment presence here.

Support for exporters to go global

Austrade is focussed on helping Australia’s innovators access international market opportunities by linking Australia and Australian entrepreneurs with innovation ecosystems, or niche centres of excellence, around the world.  This includes the Bio-Bridge Initiative, a partnership between Australia and the Texas Medical Centre (TMC) in Houston, USA that fosters a two way flow of capital and resources, through collaborations in research, clinical trials and commercialisation.

Another example is the Landing Pads program, which provides market-ready startups and scaleups with the opportunity to land and expand in global innovation hubs. In San Francisco, Tel Aviv, Shanghai, Berlin and Singapore participants have access to:

  • a 90-day residency in a co-working space
  • introductions to networks of investors, mentors and strategic partners
  • access to a community that supports Australian entrepreneurs
  • business advice to help grow their business.

For detail on Landing Pads and how to apply visit https://www.austrade.gov.au/landingpads/landing-pads

The Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) scheme is a key Australian Government financial assistance program for aspiring and current exporters. Administered by Austrade, the EMDG scheme:

  • encourages small and medium-sized Australian businesses to develop export markets
  • reimburses up to 50 per cent of eligible export promotion expenses above $5,000 provided that the total expenses are at least $15,000
  • provides up to eight grants to each eligible applicant.

For detail on the EMDG scheme and how to apply visit https://www.austrade.gov.au/Australian/Export/Export-Grants/About/what-is-emdg

Please contact our International Health team in Australia for export and investment assistance.
Tel: 13 28 78. Email: info@austrade.gov.au.

Our website also provides further information, such as specific export market information https://www.austrade.gov.au/Australian/Export/Export-markets/Countries[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

[1] Worldwide Medical Devices Market Factbook, p. 4, Fitch Solutions Macro Research, 2019.

[1] Australia Medical Devices Report, Q1 2019, Fitch Solutions Macro Research, United Kingdom, 2018.

[1] Why Australia Benchmark Report 2019 https://www.austrade.gov.au/International/Invest/Resources/Benchmark-Report

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A Pandora’s Box of Possibilities for World First Trial

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Royal Melbourne Hospital will begin an early feasibility study for the safety of the Stentrode™ device. The Stentrode™ is a device that is placed inside a blood vessel of the brain located in the area that controls movement, the motor cortex.

Once implanted, the Stentrode™ picks up signals and transmits them to artificial intelligence software that can allow a person to communicate or control a computer.

It is the only investigational technology of its kind that does not require open brain surgery.

Five participants with loss of motor function due to paralysis from spinal cord injury, motor neuron disease, stroke, muscular dystrophy and loss of limbs were chon to take place in the ground-breaking trial. The research will be the first of its kind to be performed in humans and will attempt to find safer, more effective ways to implant electrical sensors in patients’ brains.

Testing is supported by Synchron (formerly known as SmartStent) that spun out of the University of Melbourne. A company that was founded in 2012 after a cold-call pitch to the Pentagon with a new concept for a Brain-Computer Interface by CEO and founder Thomas Oxley.

Synchron claims this technology has the potential to enable patients with paralysis to take back digital control of their world, without having to move a muscle.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

SHARESOURCE – THE BAXTER WAY

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Here’s How it Works

Healthcare providers can act on this information by securely and remotely adjusting their patients’ home device settings without requiring patients to travel to the clinic. The SHARESOURCE system also provides a patient’s healthcare team better visibility to their missed treatments. The healthcare provider can then proactively follow up with their patient to address any potential issues.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Heart Tech Gives Second Chance at Life

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]And it seemed to never be the same again. Following the burglary, his health started to decline, and one year later he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure requiring emergency surgery to implant one of our pacemakers.

About 12 months after receiving his pacemaker, Tyrone’s heart began retaining fluid – a dangerous complication for someone with congestive heart failure – and his doctors recommended our CardioMEMS HF System. The heart failure monitoring system allows Morris’ doctors to keep a close watch on him, wherever he is.

But even with the pacemaker and CardioMEMS, Tyrone’s heart kept getting worse – he needed a transplant. As a bridge-to-transplant therapy, his doctors implanted our HeartMate 3 Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD). The HeartMate 3 LVAD takes over the pumping function of your heart and can prolong the lives of those waiting for a transplant. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Aussie Schoolboy’s Hearing Loss Invention Idea

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Introducing Leon!

Meet Leon, a 9-year-old self-described “Aussie Deaf Kid” from Perth. Leon is the first and only Australian kid to win the annual global invention competition, ‘Ideas for Ears’.

The competition, organised by global hearing loss solutions innovator MED-EL, challenges children aged between 6-12 years old from across the globe to come up with an invention to improve the quality of life for people living with hearing loss.

Competing against kids from 19 other countries, Leon was selected as one of only nine other worldwide winners to travel to Austria to meet the inventors of his cochlear implants.

So what was Leon’s idea?

Leon’s winning entry video described a Bluetooth watch that was able to communicate with hearing implants and chance them to various custom settings, such as reducing wind noise when outdoors. Leon’s invention would also include a “Device Locator” app to help find lost processors easily, and a “Wakey, Wakey” function which is a “vibrating, flashing alarm to wake you up, but also has a setting that turns your cochlear volume up slowly over 5 minutes”.

After learning of the good news, Leon (a little speechless) told MED-EL:

“I am very happy about winning the contest. I was so shocked and surprised that my idea won. I’m so excited about going on a trip to the other side of the world and meeting the people that designed and made the implants I have. It is really amazing that one day my idea might be able to help people with hearing loss like me.”

FOLLOW ALONG

To follow Leon’s journey to Austria in July, check out the ideas4ears Facebook page or search #ideas4ears on social media.

KEY INSIGHT: One in six Aussies currently affected by hearing loss, that number is expected to rise to one in four by 2050.

TAKE A HEARING TEST

MED-EL is providing the opportunity during 2019’s Hearing Awareness Week for people to participate in a briefing hearing test online (www.listen.explore-life.com/en/), following which participants can elect to receive an information package, visit their GP or Audiology clinic to explore their options further.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

$22 Million For Early Stage Research

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Biomedical Translation Bridge grants will support successful applicants to fund and grow health and medical research projects from early stage to proof-of-concept and commercialisation.

The fund will be operated by MTPConnect through partnerships with BioCurate (University of Melbourne and Monash University) and UniQuest (University of Queensland), bringing together a wealth of experience in commercialisation of health and medical research in Australia.

The grants aim to bridge the barrier between new ideas and funding and commercialisation, to ensure that cutting edge new medical technology is available sooner to those who need it most.

Successful applicants will receive between $200,000 and $1 million over a maximum of three years.

For more information on the Biomedical Translation Bridge, visit: www.health.gov.au/MRFF[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]