Medicine for tomorrow

How can the latest findings from materials science be used in medical practice to develop innovative diagnostic and therapeutic concepts' Empa researchers, physicians from the Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen (KSSG) and scientists from the University of St. Gallen (HSG) will provide answers to these questions. Their goal is to develop the basis for novel medical technologies that will enable tailor-made therapies - the keyword being "personalized medicine". The interested public can gain insights into the research partnership at the Swiss Digital Day on 3 September in St. Gallen. Moreover, the current application for Eastern Switzerland's participation in the Swiss Innovation Park is dedicated entirely to the opportunities and challenges of novel health care technologies. A chest strap with textile sensors for the long-term monitoring of patients suffering from sleep apnea - a respiratory arrest during sleep; new surfaces and materials for stents and catheters that will leave no chance to dangerous hospital germs; an innovative procedure for the treatment of life-threatening blood poisoning : These are but a few examples that emerged from the partnership between researchers from Empa and physicians from the Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen. The two institutions have already launched a total of 16 projects - a considerable number for the four-year cooperation. "Here in Eastern Switzerland, we benefit from very short distances," explains René Rossi, head of Empa's Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles lab and one of the spiritual fathers of the partnership.