This series of articles focuses on a different paradigm for bringing new ideas to market, one in which you as a surgeon inventor retain control over designs, aggressively pursue milestones on your own (such as issuance of a patent, testing of prototypes or obtaining a regulatory clearance) and build value before presenting them to industry for possible licensing or sale. Why would you consider this option? Why not just take your sketch straight to a big company? One of the best reasons to pursue development on your own is that the value of your idea can increase exponentially compared to the costs of development—if the process is managed properly. Read More...

Is Your Next Product Idea Viable?

Introduction
Thomas Edison is quoted as saying, “Anything that won't sell, I don't want to invent. Its sale is proof of utility, and utility is success.” Busy physicians often find themselves identifying a clinical need that could be satisfied with a new product or new technology. In fact, many of the best ideas are born on those difficult days when surgical cases present unique challenges.