Iwan Dobbe is bringing the benefits of modern 3D image analysis and printing technology to the clinic. As a researcher at the Biomedical Engineering and Physics department at AMC he devised a method for the design and production of a patient-specific plate for the alignment of bone segments. It requires a single CT scan, preoperative 3D planning, and 3D printing of a titanium positioning and fixation plate. As a result surgeons are able to accurately position bone segments while avoiding the use of intraoperative navigation equipment for the complicated task of 3D repositioning.
The IXA business developers provided Dobbe with valuable support, amongst others regarding the decision whether or not to apply for a patent.
“Assessing the financial viability of the patenting process is quite hard to figure out for yourself”, he says. Patenting seemed worth it, even though Dobbe’s patient-specific plate is more expensive than plates currently used. “We expect that health insurance companies will be persuaded to compensate when we demonstrate the cost reduction of the overall procedure.” To this end Dobbe recently started a validation project among 50 patients. He expects the outcome to be satisfying: “Faster surgical procedures, less malalignment associated problems and overall more effective revalidation. That’s what we want to bring to the clinic.”
How is diversity and inclusivity relevant for start-ups? And what can you do as a start-up to contribute to these themes? IXA sits down with Michael Musandu and Bouchra Talidi to talk about the benefits of building a diverse and inclusive start-up and to receive some tips on how to do so.
The idea had been lingering for years. When Armand Girbes decided to finally pursue it, he almost instantly got a publication in the New England Journal of Medicine. The electrolarynx, which is known for its use after laryngectomy, produces vibrations that allow the intubated user to speak. As professor of intensive care medicine, Girbes understands […]
Why is intellectual property important? What is included in intellectual property and what not? How does patenting work? Sanne Stembert of IXA explains everything you need to know about the valorisation process, intellectual property and patenting.