Why Are Medical Device Multinationals Choking Disruptive Technology and Killing Innovation? Challenges to Innovation in Medical Device Technology

Abstract

Medical device innovation has maintained momentum, irrespective of changing socioeconomic trends, as medical device companies recognize the need to innovate. However, the translation of device innovation into clinical practice continues to be a daunting, and often a complex and protracted process.The clinical community is diverse. On one end of the spectrum are the "innovators and early adopters" (interventional cardiologists, endovascular key opinion leaders, and neuroradiologists), who are enthusiastic about adopting new ideas (Figure 1). [1][2][3] The most prominent example is the late professor Edward B. Diethrich, who was one of the early vascular surgeons to introduce and adapt endovascular grafts in the history of vascular surgery. Then the "early majority" (vascular and endovascular specialists), mostly from the United States, continental Europe, Ireland, and New Zealand, who are keen to use something new but only after they feel it is safe to do so. Then, the "late majority," mostly from the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, Brazil, and Argentina, who follow everyone else's lead. Finally, the other end of the spectrum constitutes the rest-the laggards, who will never accept any solution, no matter how many others use it or how promising it has been. Although there is a natural tendency to lag and avoid the burden of rapid development, there is no excuse for not being open to the adoption of newer technologies as we move forward.The three individual innate traits that mandate our future goals and act as our natural differentiators are expertise, creative thinking, and intrinsic motivation (Figure 2). 4 Innovators tend to have outstanding educational credentials and often a state-of-the-art facility, but without motivation, there is no hope for accomplishment. Therefore, we believe that "excellence is not competitive."Our autonomy and freedom fosters creativity and heightens our intrinsic motivation and sense of ownership. Freedom allows us to approach problems through our expertise and creative thinking. Intrinsic motivation and interest in solving a problem are key driving factors, which are independent of material gain. The intrinsic motivation of relishing a challenge, and our drive to crack a challenging situation that no 989356J ETXXX10.

Editorial: New discoveries in bioengineering applied to vascular surgery

“…These innovations have revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases, paving the way for precision medicine tailored to individual patient needs (2). leading causes of mortality worldwide.…”