Page 41 - Plastics News Issue December 2024

FEATURE NEWS
Why the healthcare industry is
obsessed with medical plastics
lastics, though often criticized for their
environmental impact, have carved a
Pniche in healthcare, revolutionizing medi-
cal devices and patient care. The medical plas-
tics market, projected to reach USD 54.29 billion
by 2027 (Fortune Business Insights), exemplifies
this transformation. These plastics, used in sy-
ringes, inhalation masks, and IV tubes, have a
rich history and a critical role in advancing medi-
cal technologies.
Historical Shift from Metals to Plastics
Metals, once dominant in medical devices,
posed challenges like high costs and increased
risks of Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs) due
to reuse. Plastics emerged as a cost-effective al-
ternative in the 18th century, gaining widespread
adoption in the 20th century. High-performance
polymers became indispensable for disposable
medical devices, significantly reducing HAIs and
improving patient safety.
Transformative Impact of Medical Plastics
♦ Sterility: Plastics' antimicrobial properties
make them ideal for disposable medical
December 2024
tools like gloves and insulin pens, preventing
cross-contamination.
♦ Durability in Transport: Medical plastics en-
sure safe transportation of vaccines and
medicines, especially to remote areas. Pro-
tective coatings enhance their resilience and
maintain product integrity.
♦ Innovation in Devices: From stents to pace-
makers, plastics enable the development of
advanced medical devices, enhancing treat-
ment options and patient outcomes.
♦ Future Potential: Textiles and Additive Man-
ufacturing
The future of medical plastics is intertwined with
emerging technologies. Connected textiles, in-
tegrated with medical devices, offer real-time
health monitoring for tailored treatments. Ad-
ditive manufacturing, or 3D printing, leverages
medical-grade plastics for diagnostic equipment,
fostering early detection of chronic diseases.
By reducing costs, enhancing sterility, and ena-
bling innovation, medical plastics have not only
modernized healthcare but also set the stage
for ground breaking advancements in patient
care. Their expanding scope promises a future
of greater accessibility and precision in medical
solutions.
Source :- Medical Plastic News
PLASTICS NEWS 41