Bio-Medical Engineering Research and Working with Universities

Description

In this presentation, Subodh Deshmukh, a hand surgeon, shares insights into the intersection of orthopedic surgery and biomedical engineering, encouraging junior trainees and medical students to explore engineering research in the medical field. His talk emphasizes the creativity necessary for innovation in biomedical engineering, describing the genesis of ideas, which often emerge from a 'dark' phase of contemplation, leading to the necessity of generating multiple concepts to pinch into a valuable invention.



Deshmukh delineates two paths toward entering biomedical engineering: one focused on commercial success with limited academic recognition, and another that leans toward altruism and academic satisfaction. He highlights collaborative opportunities within university biomedical engineering departments, where surgeons can partner with students and academic faculty to pursue innovative research projects, often funded modestly through institutional grants. Notably, Deshmukh showcases successful past projects led by students, including the development of unique surgical tools and methods that have contributed to the field.



The speaker also covers the complexities of patenting and commercialization in medical devices, outlining the potential rewards of obtaining patents and navigating the landscape of intellectual property while warning of the challenges and legalities that accompany such endeavors. He provides an anecdote about a clever device designed to utilize vehicle exhaust to melt ice, underscoring the creative solutions that come from thinking outside the box. Ultimately, Deshmukh's message is one of inspiration, encouraging medical professionals to embrace ingenuity in their practices and contribute to the evolution of orthopedic technology.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-230330

Specialties