With so many changes, reforms, and challenges facing the medtech industry, it’s essential for OEMs to keep up in order to stay ahead. Which is why two experts, along with a lineup of sessions on silicone-related topics that may shape the next generation of medical device technology, will be part of the 2nd Annual MSC – Minneapolis, March 22-23.

This year’s MSC – Minneapolis not only delves into the big picture, but also focuses squarely on innovation, examining the silicone-related topics that just may shape the development of the next-generation of medical device technology. The keynoter for day 1 is Don Gerhardt, chairman of start-up accelerator company, Tri-Med LLC and former president of LifeScience Alley. His topic, “From 510(k) Reform to Post-Recession Strategies: Changes and Opportunities” will address what OEMs need to be aware of when it comes to national and international politics, regulation, education and training, new technologies, policy change, and the emergence of new markets.

Day 2 will feature Thomas Novelli, vice president of government affairs for Medical Device Manufacturers Association (MDMA). Novelli will speak on “The Evolving Legislation and Regulatory Environment for Medical Device Manufacturers.”

Noting the importance of understanding the changes, overcoming cuts and crunches, and recognizing how to position product given the current market environment, Novelli will share his perspective on how lawmakers and regulators are changing the current landscape for medical device manufacturers and related industries while assessing the effects healthcare reform and current legislative and regulatory policies may have on the medical device market.

And that’s just the keynotes. General sessions will address the following:

• “Top 10 Tips for Designing with Silicone,” by Rohit Tandon, vice president of operations and Bob Bies, business development manager, Scientific Molding Corp

• “Integrating Silicone Parts into Medical Device Assemblies,” by David Wolgemuth, senior LSR engineer, Phillips Plastics

• “Customized Silicones for Long-Term Implants,” by Brian Reilly, product director – healthcare materials, NuSil Technology LLC

• How to Specify Molds for Silicone by Phil Bristow, project engineer, M.R. Mold & Engineering Corp

• “Effect of Sterilization on the Mechanical Properties of Silicone Rubbers,” by Michael J. Tzivanis, R&D group leader, Saint Gobain Performance Plastics

• “High-Volume Silicone Injection Molding for Medical Components,” by Ryan Cutler, Elmet Elastomere Produktions GmbH

Exhibits will be manned by MSC sponsors: Phillips Plastics, Bluestar Silicones, Donatelle, Helix Medical, Shin-Etsu Silicones of America, Lawton Machinery Group (LMG), Minnesota Rubber and Plastics, ProMed Molding, SiMatrix, Sil-Pro, Teamvantage, and Wacker. And the crowd-pleasing opening reception will be sponsored by Gayson Silicone Dispersions.

To learn more about MSC Minneapolis register, please visit www.medicalsiliconeconference.com.