Main description:

This book offers an analysis of the dynamics of the global medical device (medtech) industry from the 1960s until the present, using the approaches of business history and industry studies. While most of the publications in the corresponding field have focused on particular countries/regions or actors, this research is unique in its scope. First, it explores the formation and development of medtech business both globally and in the major countries engaged in this industry (the United States, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, France, and China). Second, it tackles a broad range of actors and organizations, from individual entrepreneurs, medical doctors, and engineers to small family firms, start-ups, and large multinationals, as well as universities and research centers. Hence, for the first time, this book both provides a general understanding of the formation and transformation of the medtech industry throughout the world and sheds light on the main features of a fast-growing business in the twenty-first century. This book will be of value to historians, industry professionals, and analysts.

Contents:

Introduction.- 1 The dynamics of the global medtech industry.- 2 Formation of medtech big business.- 3 The lasting competitive advantage of US firms.- 4 Japan: From electronics to medical technology.- 5 Germany: Between Siemens and specialized medtech firms.- 6 Orthopedics SMEs and pharmaceutical giants in Switzerland.- 7 The French medtech industry: A lack of international competitiveness.- 8 The rise of a new medtech giant: China.- Conclusion.