3D, digital twins and AI: New tech boosting medtech

We spoke with Dr Catherine Forristal about Ireland’s evolving medtech sector and the technologies powering improved patient care.

For as long as she can remember, Dr Catherine Forristal, the director of strategy and portfolio management at Stryker’s AMagine division, has been fascinated by the intricacies of how things work. 

“As a child, I asked my parents endless questions about the mechanics of everyday items and processes, even going so far as to beg my mother to buy me a book titled ‘How my body works’ when I was five years old,” she told SiliconRepublic.com. 

In secondary school her favourite subject was biology, as an engaging teacher, skilled at making science accessible to all, brought the subject to life. So it was no surprise that she opted to continue her STEM education in university, where an interest in biomedical science made it easy to select a BSc in genetics as her college undergrad. 

 “Following my degree, I specialised in cell biology, completing a PhD in stem cell research, then focused on the functioning of cancer cells and breakthrough cancer treatments. 

“My academic background in genetics, stem cell research and biomedical innovation has enabled me to build a career with Stryker which bridges scientific discovery and real-world medical applications.”

Ireland’s medtech landscape

According to Forristal, in recent decades Ireland has become a magnet for major multinationals operating in the medtech space. Galway for example has several key business parks with high-profile pharmaceutical companies, such as Merit Medical, Boston Scientific, Merck and Medtronic. 

“As it stands, approximately 450 companies in the medical devices sector have a presence in Ireland, employing over 45,000 people. Ireland’s success is due in part to its access to a skilled and dedicated workforce and world-class academic and healthcare institutions, as well as strong networks locally.”

As Ireland’s medtech companies continue to be a key contributor to the global healthcare industry, Forristal is excited to be working during a period of technological innovation that is driving advanced patient care. 

 “The medtech sector has a record of embracing new technologies, which has broadened the realms of possibility and allowed innovation to flourish. Medtech companies around the world continue to move towards alternative ways of working and manufacturing, with the most prevalent now being 3D printing, digital twin technology and AI.

 “The ripple effect of rapid change within the medtech sector is monumental as the aforementioned technologies can boost diagnostic outcomes for patients as well as drive top- and bottom-line improvements for the healthcare community.”

One such example of advantageous change is the improvements being made in 3D printing, which until recently was often an ambitious dream for medtech companies. She explained that time and investment have made it a reality and 3D printing now represents an opportunity for medtech platforms to create and develop technologies. 

Upskilling for medtech

In line with the advancements being made, Forristal noted that it isn’t just about technology, but also about ensuring that innovations improve patient outcomes, access to care and the performance of healthcare professionals. 

“Throughout my career I have been encouraged by the possibility of making a difference to the lives of others. Every day, I remind myself that my work can affect real people in real-life health situations.”

She explained that the continued prosperity of the medtech sector depends on the support of a highly skilled and inclusive workforce equipped to meet the demands of the industry. Ireland’s third-level institutions in particular have a responsibility to build strong learning pathways so students have the skills to succeed in evolving environments, she said.   

“To set themselves up for success within the medtech field, I would encourage students and young professionals to develop their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills as early as possible in their careers. 

“Medtech professionals must navigate complex challenges and a strong ability to analyse problems, think creatively, troubleshoot technical issues and develop effective solutions is essential.”

As the medtech sector continues to evolve, topics such as data analytics, AI and sustainability skills will become increasingly important and Forristal is of the opinion that the best way forward is to invest in people via graduate schemes, employee initiatives and educational assistance, to prepare for future challenges. 

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