Innovating in the medical device industry – challenges & opportunities ESB 2015 translational research symposium

The European Society for Biomaterials 2015 Translational Research Symposium focused on ‘Innovating in the Medical Device Industry – Challenges & Opportunities’ from different perspectives, i.e., from a non-profit research organisation to a syndicate of small and medium-sized companies and large companies. Lecturers from regulatory consultants, industry and research institutions described the innovation process and regulatory processes (e.g., 510K, PMA, combination product) towards market approval. The aim of the present article is to summarise and explain the main statements made during the symposium, in terms of challenges and opportunities for medical device industries, in a constantly changing customer and regulatory environment.