Successful shows see strong crowds at the NEC

Both Mediplas and TCT shows enjoyed two days of strong crowds and a buoyant atmosphere at the NEC in Birmingham on 25-26 September. 

Mediplas, which is dedicated to the field of medical plastics, saw well attended seminar sessions over the two days, covering some key topics including materials selection for medical device development, medical technology and plastics in the NHS as well as material replacement. 

On Wednesday 25th September, Dr. Paul Shipton of Smithers Rapra discussed the trends in the polymer medical device market, indicating that he saw future growth in the field of 'self-care' medical devices, including those for rehabilitation as opposed to drug delivery. "One of the key considerations when looking at the development of any medical device is how to balance performance against cost, whilst considering that there are up to four individuals that need to approve the way the device works, including both the patent and the clinician," he commented. 

Dr. Shipton stated that opportunities in the medical device market involved transparent devices, lubricated grades to resist abrasion and filled grades that allow stiffness. He also said that polypropylene was a material "here to stay" in the field of medical plastics, and the future would see more grades developed. 

Earlier in the day, Chris Dyke of Medilink discussed the exciting developments in the world of 3D Printing in relation to medical plastics, giving examples of universities and academics that are developing new and innovative technologies to develop the way that practices are carried out. Such technologies included 3D printed stents and artificial bone printing. "The biggest obstacle in bringing these innovative techniques into the mainstream is the issue of regulatory affairs," he commented. 

Also enjoying a rapturous two days was the TCT and Personalize show, the long-standing event dedicated to the world of 3D Printing and additive manufacturing technologies, which is now in its eighteenth year. Both days of the show enjoyed a busy floor with visitors flocking to see exhibitors demonstrating the latest technology and showcasing some impressive prototypes. The seminar and conference sessions were extremely well attended, with some of the industry's biggest names responsible for drawing the theatre-filling crowds. 

James Woodcock, Group Editor of TCT + Personalize, said: "The show was a complete success for all involved. We've had excellent feedback from the visitors, exhibitors, speakers and conference attendees — and the organisers are all still smiling! We hope to continue this for next year and onwards towards the 2014 TCT Asia debut in Shanghai."