Future of medical technology: Annual general meeting in Tuttlingen inspires!

Future of medical technology: Annual general meeting in Tuttlingen inspires!

On October 23, 2025, the annual general meeting of the Baden-Württemberg State Guild of Surgical Mechanics took place at the KLS Martin World in Tuttlingen. Over 30 members and guests, including prominent honorary members such as Dieter Heiss and Egon Deufel as well as Roland Aicheler from the BBT, were present. Michael Martin, Managing Director of the KLS Martin Group, attracted the attention of those present with his company presentation and led a tour of the impressive rooms of the KLS Martin World.

The meeting was not only a place to get together, but also offered space for looking back on past activities. Among other things, the establishment of an entrepreneurial forum in 2024, the successful career information days and participation in the training exchange were highlighted. Particularly worth mentioning are the new communication measures to attract members, which were initiated by Sandra Heiss, who has been in charge of public relations for the state guild since May.

Important topics for the future

In a survey among members that was carried out in the summer, central topics such as succession, digitalization and recruiting skilled workers were discussed. The guild expressly plans to devote more attention to these challenges. A lecture by Steffen Epple (KLS Martin) on IT security in the MedTech industry took a central position, as digitalization in the healthcare system is gaining momentum and new security standards are required.

In connection with digitalization, the medical technology industry has great development potential. According to a study by FutureManagementGroup, Germany is considered the second largest medical technology location in the world. This position must be maintained by demanding decisive industrial policy concepts from the new federal government. The recommendations for action from the “Health Industry Round Table” include, among other things, the withdrawal of excessive regulation and innovation-friendly approval conditions.

Kleine-Levin syndrome and its challenges

A topic that should not be forgotten in medical technology is Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS). This rare disorder, which often occurs in early adolescence, is characterized by extreme sleepiness, increased appetite, and occasionally hallucinations. Those affected experience episodes that often last several days and usually occur several times a year. These phases can have a significant impact on daily life. An average episode lasts about 10 days, with many people having difficulty remembering events during this time.

The causes of KLS are still unknown, but genetic factors and possibly autoimmune reactions are likely to play a role. Influencing factors can be flu illnesses or stress, which speaks for the importance of health - both physical and mental.

In summary, the event in Tuttlingen not only offered insights into developments in surgical mechanics, but also addressed topics that go far beyond the industry and include the challenges of the digital future. The importance of education and the recruitment of new skilled workers are essential cornerstones in order to meet the dynamic requirements of medical technology in the long term.

For more information about the annual general meeting and other topics, you can read the detailed articles here: Swabian, Cleveland Clinic and Healthcare in Europe.