AIIMS, Osaka University to develop low-cost surgical instruments

India's AIIMS Monday inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Japan's Osaka University to develop novel instruments for surgical needs and affordable medical devices for universal health coverage.

The initiative was spelled out in the joint statement issued by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Premier Shinzo Abe, during the former's visit to Japan, to enhance cooperation in the field of medical devices.

As per the agreement, both of the premier institutions will be involved in collaborative research and development of medical devices which will be of the highest quality and at the same time affordable and will address the needs of surgical fraternity.

"Innovations are very important in the medical field of medical sciences, especially when the nations in the world are hell-bent to bring the cost of health care down," All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) director M.C. Misra said in his address at the event.

He said that at present, the areas of special interest include development of instrument for minimal access surgery, which will also involve other branches of surgical disciplines in due course of time.

Misra also emphasized that the project will help India adopt the technology from Japan and manufacture the medical devices in the country focusing on Prime Minister Modi's "Make in India campaign".

India currently imports 75 percent of the surgical devices from the medically advanced nations.

Speaking on the occasion, Osaka University professor Kiyokazu Nakajima said: "The project will be implemented phase wise after doctors and researchers from both the nation visit each other's country and analyse the areas in depth."

"Based on their long term experience the teams will cooperate with AIIMS to identify 'true clinical needs' and collaboratively develop affordable devices with appropriate performance," Nakajima added.

Japanese Ambassador to India Takeshi Yagi, who was also present, said: "The project has been designed to encourage mutual cooperation, exchange visits, technology update, capacity building and transfer of technical know-how."