A transformation is underway in the healthcare industry, as diagnoses and treatments become more personalized to adapt to patient-specific conditions. In response, medical device companies need to develop and deliver more personalized devices (such as surgical instruments or implants) in an efficient manner, meeting market demands and reducing costs.

In order for you to address this challenge, you will have to design and manufacture personalized medical devices faster and better. This will require additional business and technical systems than those traditionally used for build-to-stock devices.

“Personalized Product Innovation” is the Siemens PLM Software perspective on how medical device companies can provide support for personalized medical devices to complement their build-to-stock business. Our solutions for automating the image to implant process support Personalized Product Innovation by enabling a highly automated process for medical device companies to develop personalized medical devices and therapies. Beginning with a MRI or CT image of patient anatomy, and ending with personalized medical devices, our integrated product lifecycle management (PLM) platform and applications help you achieve speed and accuracy along the entire process chain.

Medical Image to CAD

The process begins when magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans are converted to computer-aided design (CAD) models using an automated image segmentation application. These CAD models are used to specify and optimize the position and shape of the personalized medical device, as well as for Internet-based pre-operative review of the surgical plan with physicians.

CAD to CAM

After physician approval, the personalized CAD models trigger automatic updates to manufacturing templates for 3D printing, computer numerical control (CNC) machining, and coordinate measuring machine (CMM) inspection for quality assurance checks. Using machine tool simulation, the machining operations are verified and optimized for efficiency and accuracy by coupling tool path generation with a virtual machine controller.

CAM to Implant

Production orders to manufacture personalized instruments and implants are efficiently executed using a direct NC programming system and machine tool controllers. Quality checks are performed using a CMM inspection application, and tooling inventory is managed using shop floor tool management.

Engineer-to-Order

The end-to-end process chain is managed in a PLM system, ensuring that the entire engineer-to-order process is securely managed and controlled, facilitating collaboration and delivering information to all participants involved in the sales, planning, design, manufacturing and quality organizations.

Our solutions for automating the image to implant process help you manage everything from product knowledge, collaboration between teams and regulatory documentation. Our proven, flexible and open solutions allow you to synchronize efforts, improve productivity and increase innovation in developing personalized medical devices.