Wirelessly Connected, Medical Devices

Element in wirelessly connected Medical Devices 

Medical devices play a critical role in the diagnostics, treatment and aftercare of patients where failure is not an option. Traditionally, the medium for communication both to and from these devices has been delivered by wires, where the reliability of this established technology has provided the confidence needed. However with wires comes tethering, restricting the use and flexibility of where and how the medical device can actually be used.

To address this issue, specific frequencies have been allocated for medical applications and also the inherent reliability of the communications link improved through greater error checking and alternative technologies if interference occurs. Use cases of remote monitoring of patients and automatically updating of prescriptions is now provided through IoT protocols and smart devices, such as wearables, connected to the patient.

Wireless medical devices also allow for these to be embedded within the patient, reducing the possibility of them being damaged and improved quality of life. Communication to drug delivery units and other sensors is provided through Medical Body Area Networks which in turn communicate with the outside world in secure communications links directly with medical practitioners. 

In addition, within a general surgery environment, wireless communication also plays an increasingly important role with applications such as assisted surgery using robots – a process where a surgeon can use high-fidelity techniques to perform delicate operations and reduce the convalesce time accordingly.

As a world leader in wireless, EMC and safety testing of medical devices, Element is able to provide a comprehensive range of testing and certification services, that ultimately make certain that the medical devices we test for our customers are always safe, compliant and fit for purpose in their end application.

To find out more about our services, click on the link below.