MedTech Blog

Yesterday was the first day of DeviceTalks Boston, and for us a particularly exciting one, as we had the chance to speak at the Engineering Theater together with our friend Dharm Patel from Wytech Industries . We were very happy to see such strong interest in the session and the many follow-up conversations afterwards. Today, Fridtjof Strass , Laura Veneracion and Tim Fries are back at Booth #918 , directly opposite the Engineering Theater, and always open to continue the discussion around your projects, manufacturability, and the path from prototype to production. Come see us there!

As we prepare for our upcoming panel discussion on design for manufacturability at DeviceTalks Boston , hypotubes are a useful example of how early design choices can shape both function and production. A change in slot pattern, spacing, or wall thickness can affect pushability, torque response, and flexibility along the shaft. That is why two hypotubes that look similar on paper may behave quite differently in your hand. This is one reason we enjoy working with them at MeKo. The link between design, material, and manufacturing becomes very tangible. With standardized hypotube samples now available through our webshop at shop.meko.de , engineers can compare geometries early and explore what works before moving into custom manufacturing. Because comparing different geometries side by side helps turn early assumptions into clearer design decisions.

Next stop: DeviceTalks Boston . You will find us at Booth #918 , right opposite the Engineering Theater. If your project is moving toward manufacturing, this is a good place to stop and talk things through. On Wednesday at 11:45 , we will also be on stage with our good friends from Wytech Industries , walking you through what it takes to move smoothly from prototype to production. Whether at the talk or at the booth, we are always open to discuss the questions that come up along the way: materials, tolerances, and which decisions will save you actual time and money later.

SMST is in full motion and we are enjoying every second of it. If you are attending, come find Kai Leymann , Malte Ebermann and Laura Veneracion at Booth #100 . SMST has always been one of those places where discussions around Nitinol and superelastic materials quickly become very specific, in the best possible way. It is a great opportunity to exchange perspectives, catch up on current developments, and spend a few days surrounded by people who care about the details just as much as we do. That is what keeps bringing us back to SMST year after year.

Yesterday, Chris Janker and Tim Fries were on site at DeviceTalks Minnesota, right in the middle of conversations around project development: from early ideas to what actually works in production. Thank you to everyone who took the time to stop by and share their projects, questions, and perspectives. These exchanges are what make these events valuable. And yes, a few of our medals found new owners over the course of the day. We will bring the next batch with us to Boston . See you there!

From broad MedTech discussions to deep dives into shape memory alloys: DeviceTalks Minnesota and SMST in La Jolla both kick off next Monday, and our team will be part of both. Our project managers will be on site, ready to exchange on current ideas, open questions, and everything that comes up when projects move closer to manufacturing. Different locations, same mindset: open, technical, and focused on turning your idea into reality. If you are attending either event, we would be glad to meet and continue the conversation.

Some projects start with a clear path in mind. Others begin with a first idea that still needs to take shape. From a project management perspective, you see both almost every day. And you can usually tell quite early which direction a project might take. A prototype design might work. The real question is whether it works again. And again. That’s where many projects start to drift. Because tolerances are no longer just numbers on a drawing but something that needs to be repeatable and measurable in a stable process. That only works if the end application is clearly understood. What really matters for the device, which requirements are critical. And where design for manufacturing can simplify things without compromising function. If that conversation happens too late, things get difficult. Changes after validation has begun are not just adjustments. They affect timelines and often require going back to decisions that already felt settled. The projects that stand out follow a different path. There, development and manufacturing sit at the same table early and work through the details together. Milestone by milestone, things fall into place. Not by chance, but because the groundwork was there. You can see it in the way these projects progress. Less friction, clearer decisions, and a steady sense of momentum: from first drawings to prototypes, through validation and toward series. And that’s where the satisfaction comes from. Not from a single moment, but from solving these challenges together and seeing a project grow into something that runs reliably in the end. Those are the projects that bring a smile to everyone involved.

This week, Laura Veneracion from our US team (MeKo MedTech Inc.) is back in Sarstedt, bringing insights from recent customer visits and shows, along with new perspectives across teams. And as every German knows: April is when asparagus season begins. A small team dinner followed accordingly, but somewhere between good food and even better conversations, we didn’t get around to taking a photo. So today’s picture shows a few of us right after dinner, lined up outside the restaurant for a quick group shot. Great to have you here, Laura. And we’re already looking forward to the next visit from the US.

Our facility in Costa Rica is taking shape. Over the past months, our team on site has been building up the new cleanroom step by step. The layout is in place, with clearly separated areas, short paths, and defined access points to keep processes controlled from the beginning. Last week marked another step forward. The first cleanroom equipment arrived, from workstations and shelving to laminar flow units and the materials needed for daily operations. The next pieces are already on their way. A container from Sarstedt will be shipped soon, including our logo signs and equipment from our existing operations. It is still a work in progress, but each delivery brings us closer to opening.

Selecting the right marker size for a stent rarely happens in one step. Small changes in diameter or wall thickness can already change how markers appear in X-ray imaging. What looks fine on paper does not always translate into sufficient contrast for accurate placement during stent deployment. In many cases, this leads to multiple iterations just to answer a simple question: which configuration is actually visible enough? To make that comparison easier, we developed the MeKo marker card . It combines a Nitinol base design with tantalum, gold, or platinum markers in different diameters and strut widths. Arranged in a structured layout, the card allows direct comparison under X-ray within seconds . Its stent-like geometry mirrors how markers actually behave in a real implant. Instead of working through several prototype loops, the card reduces development time and removes guesswork early in the process. At MeKo, not every solution is part of the final implant. Some are built to support decisions before that stage. And with the marker card now available through our webshop at shop.meko.de , it can be easily integrated into early-stage evaluation.

If your project is reaching the point where design meets manufacturing , DeviceTalks Minnesota on May 4 is a good place to talk. From early design considerations and simulation to precision manufacturing and validation, designs that work in theory often start to face real constraints in tolerances, material behavior, or scalability. Let’s talk through what that means for your project and how to move ahead confidently. We will see you there!

Our new MeKo webshop is live! With more than 180 standardized components in stock , hypotubes and marker plates are now available to order, ready to support your R&D work whenever you need them. Check availability, review pricing, and place orders at your convenience. With fast shipping, moving from idea to testing becomes more immediate. Shop now at shop.meko.de And as your project evolves, our teams continue to support you all the way to customized solutions and series production.

SMST is back, and this year we are heading to La Jolla. We have been part of this conference for many years, and it remains one of the places where conversations around shape memory and superelastic materials quickly get specific. That is exactly why we enjoy being there. You will find us at Booth #100 . If you want to talk about Nitinol, simulation, or what we have learned through the PRIME project , come by and say hello. We would be very happy to meet you at the booth or during the social events.

From idea to series production, and we're here to show you how to get there. At DeviceTalks Boston, we are teaming up with Wytech Industries to explore what truly drives successful development pathways. Starting with rapid prototyping, but with manufacturability in mind from day one. Because the goal isn't just moving fast – it's building a process that grows with you , one that holds strong as demand rises and complexity evolves. Together, we will share practical insights drawn from real-world projects : how to unlock momentum early, where teams can accelerate with confidence, and which decisions made up front create the biggest wins down the road. If you are working on interventional devices, this is a conversation worth hearing. Come find us at DeviceTalks Boston, we'd love to connect!

Yesterday we the pleasure of welcoming a group of visitors to our facility in Costa Rica. Our colleagues in south america hosted a group of students from the Master of Science in Business Administration (M. Sc. BA) at Hochschule Mainz – University of Applied Sciences in Germany. It was a great exchange where we shared our experience establishing operations in Costa Rica, covering both the challenges and the practical steps involved. Always valuable to connect academia with real-world operations and exchange perspectives across regions.

When competitors sit at the same table together, it usually means one thing. The challenge is bigger than any single company. In the latest episode of MedTech Unboxed with Steve Maxson, Jakob Dohse shares insights into the PRIME initiative . Five companies across the nitinol value chain joined forces to evaluate a new ingot source, generate shared data, and validate material performance under real-world conditions: Fort Wayne Metals, Vascotube, Euroflex, Admedes, and MeKo. PRIME focuses on transparency, joint testing, and strengthening long-term supply reliability for critical implants. Learn more at www.prime-ingot.com and watch the full episode via the link below.

It travels through a narrow catheter, opens at the target site, captures a stone or foreign body, and closes again during retrieval. This Nitinol retrieval basket looks simple. The engineering behind it is not. The entire basket is formed from a single Nitinol wire that is laser cut into multiple segments, creating a continuous geometry without joints. This results in uniform mechanical behavior during both expansion and collapse. At the distal end, the segments are finished with a precise welding bead . This small feature creates a smooth, rounded tip that reduces tissue interaction and prevents the basket from catching during retrieval. The movement itself is defined by shape setting and Af setting . The basket expands at body temperature and collapses when constrained in a catheter, without hinges or mechanical linkages. Flexibility and retrieval force are determined by wire diameter, cut geometry, and heat treatment. At MeKo, we combine Nitinol expertise, precision laser cutting, and micro welding to make these interactions predictable and reproducible from prototype to series production. That’s what turns a simple wire into a functional medical device.

Development decisions are only as good as the data behind them. That is why we founded MeKo MedLab , an impartial testing laboratory that supports your projects though development, approval, and quality assurance for faster progress toward market approval. Building on MeKo’s decades of manufacturing and material expertise , MedLab provides a growing portfolio of testing services for vascular implants, delivery systems, and catheter technologies. Current capabilities include hardness testing, radial force measurement, dimensional verification, fatigue testing, and balloon-related performance tests according to established international standards. And the portfolio continues to expand: A new Track Tester will soon enable detailed evaluation of guidewires and catheters in a body-temperature water bath. Engineers can analyze bending behavior, pushability, torsional strength, guideability, and forces acting on simulated vessel walls under realistic conditions. Another important milestone is already underway. At the end of 2025, MedLab applied for ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for selected testing methods, including hardness, radial force, burst and leakage testing, and dimensional verification. This accreditation will further strengthen traceability and regulatory confidence for customers preparing submissions. For development teams, this means reliable data, shorter feedback loops, and stronger support on the path from concept to clinical reality.

This month’s featured component is a PolyMediX® tube with a stent structure laser cut into it. In recent weeks, we have shared different technical perspectives on this polymer platform. Here, those aspects come together in a real device geometry. PolyMediX® covers both biodegradable and durable polymer tubes , with optional drug integration depending on the application. In this example, the drug is embedded directly into a bioresorbable polymer matrix. Structure and therapy are defined within the same material system, so device geometry, degradation profile, and release kinetics influence each other from the first design iteration. Processing such polymers requires careful control of thermal input to protect material integrity and drug stability. Edge quality affects mechanical behavior. Radial strength and recoil must remain predictable over the intended degradation period. At MeKo, we produce PolyMediX® tubes in-house and laser cut them into device geometries tailored to your application. Vertical integration enables close control of material formulation, extrusion, and drug loading when required, while inspection and in-vitro testing support efficient iteration and a reliable path toward series production. That’s exactly how we work – combining material science, laser expertise, and cross-functional development to turn polymer-based concepts into reliable medical devices.

How fast can you turn an idea into a physical part? In early development speed matters, because every day without a prototype is a day without real feedback. Maybe you need a sample to do your first bench tests. Maybe it’s a proof-of-concept to show investors or stakeholders. At MeKo, your first prototypes can be manufactured within just a few days. We maintain a large inventory of tube and wire sizes in stock, and our production runs 24/7. That allows development teams to move quickly from drawing to first samples without waiting on material lead times. What’s your need right now? Are you looking for a fast proof of concept? In many cases, a drawing and a short explanation of the intended function are enough to get started. The focus at this stage is to translate your idea into a functional part you can evaluate in real conditions. Or are you already refining critical features? When you share your design, we take the time to understand how the device is intended to perform and where potential risks may lie. Our engineers support material selection, tolerance definition, and process setup in a way that reflects both performance requirements and manufacturability. And when you are ready for the next phase, you can move forward without changing the technical foundation. Prototypes are manufactured on the same custom-built equipment used for higher volumes, so scaling does not introduce a new production environment. Rapid prototyping should accelerate development. It should also create confidence in what comes next.

The first day at MD&M West has been a great start. We’ve had many valuable conversations, met with our PRIME partners , and enjoyed reconnecting with familiar faces as well as new contacts. With a bit more space at the booth this year, there’s room for in-depth discussions and taking the time to really talk things through. If you’d like to chat about Nitinol , manufacturing challenges, or moving from prototyping to production, stop by Booth #2971 and say hello. We’re here together with our partners from Metallurgical Solutions and happy to welcome you.

MD&M West 2026 is just around the corner, and the team is ready. At Booth #2971 , you’ll find Jakob Dohse , Klaus Iker , Laura Veneracion , Thomas Hueerkamp , and Tim Fries , together with our partners from Metallurgical Solutions. They’ll be there to talk through ideas, take a fresh look at ongoing projects, and explore practical paths from early concepts to scalable production. If you enjoy open, technical conversations around materials like Nitinol and real-world manufacturability, stop by and say hello. We’re always happy to take the time. See you in Anaheim!

Electropolishing decides how a medical component behaves, not just how it looks. It’s the step where sharp edges disappear , surface roughness drops, and corrosion resistance is defined . Material is removed evenly, without mechanical stress, which makes the process ideal for fine structures and sensitive geometries where every micron matters. What makes it demanding is the material. Stainless steel , CoCr , and Nitinol all react differently, and there is no universal recipe. The result depends on knowing how each alloy responds and controlling the process accordingly. That’s why electropolishing at MeKo relies on in-house developed machines, automated control, and continuous electrolyte monitoring, combined with trained operators who bring years of hands-on experience to the process. This is how consistently smooth, functional surfaces are achieved, not just as a finishing touch, but as a performance driver.

We’re kicking off 2026 at MD&M West and we couldn’t think of a better way to start the year. Join us in Anaheim and visit Booth #2971 to meet the MeKo team. Our experts will be on site and happy to talk about your ideas, current challenges, and how projects can move smoothly from prototype to series production – particularly when working with demanding materials and tight tolerances. If you’re attending, stop by for a conversation. We’re looking forward to meeting at MD&M West.

Precision often starts long before laser processing begins. It’s the material quality that defines what’s possible . With PolyMediX® , we’ve transferred this mindset to polymer tubes. The result is a manufacturing process designed for micrometer-level accuracy , high material integrity, and the flexibility developers need in early-stage innovation. In a short LinkedIn article series , we’ll take a closer look at PolyMediX® and explore why polymer tube quality matters more than many development teams expect. We’ll cover precision, rapid prototyping, process integrity, and the role of polymer tubes as active drug carriers . The first article is now live and focuses on a simple but critical question: Why do a few microns make such a big difference in medical device performance?

"You're doing incredible work with Nitinol, have you ever thought about sharing a bit more of it on LinkedIn?" It was just a quiet question from someone who’s known our work for years – thoughtful, genuine, and one we’ve been thinking about ever since. A reminder that what we’re known for internally isn’t always obvious from the outside. So let’s make it clearer. At MeKo, Nitinol isn’t just something we offer on the side, it’s something we’ve intentionally built around for decades. It’s custom lasers, dedicated teams, in-house processes, and over 30 years of hands-on experience . We understand how this material behaves and how to make it reliable, repeatable, and scalable. From the first prototype to full-scale production. If Nitinol plays a role in your next idea, chances are, we’ve already solved the challenges you’re about to face. Our team is ready to help you with speed and expertise.

The recording of our webinar on Laser Welding for Microassembly is now available on our website . For everyone who couldn’t join live or would like to revisit the details the full session and Q&A can be viewed anytime and free of charge .

What a week at COMPAMED 2025. Thank you to everyone , both familiar faces and new ones, who visited our booth. Your curiosity and openness led to many valuable, technical discussions. As expected, Tuesday was the busiest, yet even on Thursday morning the hall was full of energy and genuine interest. A sincere thank-you goes to our team on site and to everyone supporting the event from behind the scenes. Your work made this four-day trade show run smoothly. We are now taking the time to follow up on the many ideas and project discussions from Düsseldorf. We appreciate the trust and look forward to continuing the conversations in the coming days.

This month, we take a closer look at a new component that brings the possibilities of microjoining into focus: our laser welding demonstrator . At first glance, it looks like a simple assembly. But it’s designed to show just how diverse — and precise — laser welding can be at micro scale. Each section highlights a different application, from joining tasks to functional movement. The demonstrator features several common seam types : circular seams, butt welds (I- and V-joint), fillet welds, and square butt joints. These are used across real-world applications like a 3D weld on a cylindrical housing, a marker weld for part traceability, and a pin weld joining dissimilar metals. Additionally, gear elements are welded just enough to rotate freely, demonstrating how functionality can be preserved through precise joining. These details aren’t just for show. They reflect real manufacturing needs in medical and precision industries, where clean seams, consistency and minimal thermal input are critical. At MeKo, we develop custom demonstrators to make our processes more tangible . Some concepts only become clear when you can hold them in your hand — and that hands-on understanding is just as important to us as the technical solution itself.

Our team is on site at MEDevice Silicon Valley and ready to talk about your projects. Laura Veneracion and Klaus Iker had a successfus first day, joined by our partners from Metallurgical Solutions . If you're exploring new design approaches, preparing for scale-up, or simply want to discuss what's possible in laser manufacturing and medtech materials, feel free to stop by and meet the team tomorrow. We look forward to seeing you there!

Only 5 days to go until MEDevice Silicon Valley. If you're attending or based in the area, Klaus Iker and Laura Veneracion look forward to meeting you in person. Stop by to learn how we help accelerate speed-to-market and bring complex ideas to life — supported by our expertise in Nitinol processing, simulation , and the analytical capabilities of MeKo MedLab . See you in Silicon Valley.

Our webinar on Laser Welding for Microassembly is complete — thank you to everyone who joined and shared their questions. The recording will be available soon. Next up: COMPAMED 2025 in Düsseldorf. If new questions came up after the Q&A or you’d like to discuss project ideas in person, visit us at our booth and continue the conversation with our experts. While you’re there, learn more about our Nitinol processing, simulation expertise , and testing services at MeKo MedLab . We look forward to seeing you there!

See how laser welding enables reliable connections even at micro scale — a key technology for modern medical device assemblies. Join our free webinar “Laser Welding for Microassembly” next week and learn how MeKo’s expertise ensures strength and consistency where every micron matters. November 12, 5–6 p.m. UTC+1 November 13, 9–10 a.m. UTC+1 Each presentation will be followed by an open Q&A . Participation is free of charge.

You can’t lead in manufacturing if you lag behind in research. We’re proud to share that our in-house R&D activities have been officially recognized with the BSFZ seal from the German government . But more importantly, this confirms what our clients already know: Our innovations in laser processing, material science , and manufacturing don’t stop at the shop floor — they start with deep scientific curiosity. We are convinced that the best process means nothing without the right material and vice versa. That’s why we’ve vertically integrated our development efforts: From internal studies on material behavior to optimized manufacturing flows, everything is tailored to our customers’ product requirements . Each new project adds to our knowledge base and that’s how we turn complex ideas into reliable medical solutions.

How do you explain a cardiovascular stent to someone with zero medical background? That’s the kind of challenge the LifeScienceXplained Award by Sartorius is all about: recognizing creative science communication that brings complex life science topics to the public in new, engaging ways. And this summer, our stent delivery game made it to the shortlist — selected from 99 entries as one of the top 8 contributions ! Our interactive format guides players through the steps of a stent implantation , using real components and a tactile model. Instead of passively listening, participants explore the process themselves and get a hands-on understanding of how a stent is placed during a heart attack. At the end, they take home their own “implanted” stent as a keychain. It’s a playful concept with a serious purpose: making MedTech approachable and memorable . Curious how it works? The video below shows our game in action (note: German audio). Big congratulations to the three finalists — and best of luck at the award ceremony on November 6 during the Göttinger Literaturherbst . We’ve taken away plenty of inspiration from this experience and look forward to what’s next.

On November 19–20 , MeKo will be at MEDevice Silicon Valley – the place where engineers and innovators come together to move MedTech forward. If you’re attending, stop by Booth #1243 to talk about laser manufacturing, Nitinol , coatings , and how we can help bring your next idea to life.

Trouble moving your project forward, or looking for a partner who can actually make it work? Meet us at COMPAMED 2025 in Düsseldorf, November 17–20 ( Hall 8a, Booth J07 ). With laser manufacturing, Nitinol processing, coating technologies , and FEA simulation , MeKo supports you from first concept to efficient serial production — helping you reach your goals with precision and speed. Let’s talk about how we can accelarate your project development.

In our laser processing teams, people combine deep technical expertise with a passion for medical innovation. One of them is Patrick Helios , who thrives on tackling what seems impossible and loves the chance to bring new ideas to life: “I love the combination of engineering and medicine and the chance to be involved in the development of new medical products . My day revolves around planning production flows and reacting to unforeseen events. I develop production processes, prepare complex orders, and align and adjust optics on lasers. Each colleague has to maintain a very high level of expertise because almost every order is special. The parts and materials are so small that handling them properly is often the biggest challenge. What motivates me is the high technical demand and the strong R & D component in ultrashort pulse laser processing."

We're live at MD&M Midwest! Day one brought everything we love about this industry: curious students, insightful conversations, unexpected questions, and plenty of moments that reminded us how wide and interconnected the MedTech world really is . If you’re there, stop by Booth #2540 . Our colleagues Tim Fries and Laura Veneracion are always up for talking Nitinol, coatings, laser manufacturing— or anything else that turns good ideas into real devices.

Discover in our new live webinar how precision laser welding enables reliable connections for even the smallest assemblies – from prototype to series production. To make participation easier across time zones, we are offering two identical live sessions: Wednesday, November 12, 5–6 p.m. CEST (UTC+1) Thursday, November 13, 9–10 a.m. CEST (UTC+1) Each presentation will be followed by an open Q&A with our coating experts. Participation is free of charge.

The video recording and Q&A from our recent webinar on Polymer Coatings for Implants are now available on our website. Discover how MeKo combines advanced coating technology with precise analysis to ensure uniform, reliable coating layers — even for complex stent geometries. Curious to see how it’s done? Watch the full webinar here .

Some conversations just work better face to face. Kai Leymann and Henri Könemann are live at CVID 2025 in Pacific Grove , happy to take a moment to talk about ideas, projects, and the challenges that come with turning Nitinol concepts into reliable devices. If you’re around, stop by Booth #E4—we’re always glad to exchange ideas with people who share our passion for precision and innovation in medical technology.

Just a few days until CVID 2025 in Pacific Grove . If you’re attending, visit our experts Kai Leymann and Henri Könemann at Booth E4 to talk about Nitinol processing, precision manufacturing, or durability testing for cardiovascular implants. We’re looking forward to meeting the CVID community and exchanging ideas on how to enhance implant longevity and performance.

Thank you to everyone who joined our webinar on polymer coatings for medical devices . We appreciate the time you took and the valuable questions during the Q&A . The recording will be available on our website soon. Our next topic is already in the pipeline: laser welding for microassembly — a process that enables precise, reliable connections for a variety of components. Stay tuned for more details. Registration will open soon.

This October, we take a closer look at a component that redefined vascular intervention: the drug-eluting stent . At first glance, it’s a familiar geometry: a metallic scaffold designed to reopen a blocked artery and hold it open. But it’s the outer layer that changed everything. The coating turns the stent into a controlled delivery system , releasing active agents exactly where they’re needed. The design space is wide. Different drugs, different elution profiles. Some coatings release fast, others are staged in layers or gradients. In bioresorbable systems, the formulation can even control how quickly the stent itself degrades. These details influence more than just pharmacokinetics. They affect fatigue behavior, radial strength and how the stent integrates with the vessel wall over time. At MeKo, we support these challenges with an open mind and decades of experience. If you’re curious about our DES solutions, tune in tomorrow or Thursday for our Webinar on Polymer Coating at www.meko.de/webinars . Can’t make it live? A full recording will be available afterward.

Last week, we had the pleasure of welcoming Damian Carr from Ireland for a dedicated workshop on catheters. Together with selected partners and a few of our MeKo experts, we dove deep into the topic catheter design and manufacturing. Our aim goes beyond supplying single parts such as LCHT. We want to provide solutions that integrate seamlessly , ensuring compatibility and value for our clients and partners. Damian’s expertise, energy, and talent for sharing knowledge made the workshop both insightful and inspiring. Thank you for your time and contribution, Damian—you are welcome back anytime.

On 21–22 October 2025, MeKo will be in Minneapolis for MD&M Midwest at Booth #2540 . Our colleagues Laura Veneracion , Tim Fries and Michelle Weise will be there to talk about how MeKo’s expertise in precision laser manufacturing, Nitinol processing, coatings, and rapid prototyping supports medical device companies from first concept to series production. Use our promo code INVITE32017 for a 20% discount on conference passes or a FREE expo pass . Learn more and register at www.mdmmidwest.com We look forward to seeing you in Minneapolis.

Polymer coatings add crucial functions to implants: they enhance biocompatibility, enable controlled drug release, and can be tailored precisely to each application. In this webinar, our experts will show how seamless in-house processing at MeKo accelerates the transition from prototype to market. Choose the time that works best for you: Wednesday, October 8, 5–6 p.m. CEST (UTC+2) Thursday, October 9, 9–10 a.m. CEST (UTC+2) Each presentation will be followed by an open Q&A . Participation is free of charge.

How many people in your life are living with heart disease ? And how many are taking positive steps to prevent it? Heart health is critical to every one of us — our family, friends, and even ourselves. At MeKo, this year carries a special meaning: it marks 30 years since we began manufacturing stents used for heart disease intervention. For three decades, we have stood alongside physicians and patients, developing implants that restore not just blood flow, but quality of life. Prevention should always come first. But when prevention is not enough, our mission is to ensure that a diagnosis of heart disease is not the end of the story. We want patients to live longer, fuller lives — and we are dedicated to creating the implants that make this possible.

Can your implant stand the test of time? That’s the question at the heart of CVID 2025 in Pacific Grove (13–15 October) – and one where MeKo contributes with proven expertise. With precision laser manufacturing, Nitinol processing, coatings , and in-house durability testing , we help ensure cardiovascular implants deliver reliable performance under real physiological conditions. We’re looking forward to connecting with the CVID community and sharing how our work supports the longevity and performance of next-generation devices.

We're live at Medical Technology Ireland ! Our senior project manager Markus Binder and CEO Jakob Dohse are welcoming you at Booth #L25 to talk about the topics driving this year’s show – from innovative design and manufacturing of medical devices, to meeting the highest regulatory and quality standards, and accelerating speed-to-market. See for yourself how our advanced solutions like Nitinol shape setting and polymer coatings fit your projects. Stop by today or tomorrow and let’s discuss how MeKo can support your next innovation.

30 years ago, we completed our first laser-cut stent project at MeKo — back in August 1995 . That’s three decades of pushing boundaries in precision manufacturing. Three decades of evolving technologies, ideas, and partnerships. And three decades of helping improve lives, one device at a time. Earlier this year, we were reminded just how much that means: At a career fair, a mother and her daughter visited our booth. When she heard we had worked on the first stents in the mid-90s, she paused. Her daughter, once a child with a kidney condition, had received one of the earliest stents available that saved her life. Stories like these reflect why we do what we do. Behind every project is a person and behind every innovation, a potential life improved. Here’s to 30 more years of stent manufacturing.

We're kicking off the fall season with the Medical Technology Ireland in Galway on 24–25 September . Come visit us at Booth #L25, our team will be ready to discuss how our precision laser manufacturing helps accelerate speed-to-market from first prototypes to serial production. Whether you’re developing stents, valve frames, hypotubes, filters or bioresorbable implants – let’s talk about how MeKo can support your next innovation. See you in Galway!

Polymer coatings open new possibilities for medical implants . They make surfaces biocompatible, enable controlled drug release, and can be tailored precisely to design and application. With seamless in-house processing at MeKo, coatings also speed up the journey from prototype to market. To make participation easier across time zones, we are offering two identical live sessions: Wednesday, October 8, 5–6 p.m. CEST (UTC+2) Thursday, October 9, 9–10 a.m. CEST (UTC+2) Each presentation will be followed by an open Q&A with our coating experts. Participation is free of charge.

Shape setting is the moment Nitinol comes to life. With carefully controlled heat, the alloy is “trained” to remember its final geometry—the diameter of a stent, the curve of a guidewire or the frame of a heart valve. Without it, Nitinol would just be another metal tube. With it, implants can unfold inside the body and return to their programmed shape again and again. But getting this step right is anything but simple. Every degree of temperature, every second of heating can influence how the implant behaves once it’s in the patient. A shape that doesn’t expand correctly or a radial force that’s too weak to hold the artery open can mean the difference between success and failure. At MeKo, we’ve spent decades mastering this process . Our engineers know how to fine-tune shape setting so that each component performs exactly as intended: reliable, safe, and consistent from prototype to series production. If you’re stuck on a Nitinol project, talk to us.

Today, we’re featuring a component that navigates some of the body’s most delicate terrain: the neuroretriever . Its task is critical — to remove blood clots from the brain with precision and minimal risk. That’s why flexibility and control are everything. The device must move safely through tortuous vessels, expand to capture the clot effectively, and withdraw without damaging the arterial wall. We manufacture neuroretrievers with ultra-fine struts and optimized geometries designed to strike this exact balance. Every detail is built for purpose, including one that stands out visually and symbolically: a gold marker in the shape of the human brain. It marks not just the retrieval zone but a commitment to precision where it matters most .

Looking to develop or optimize a Magnesium alloy for medical use ? MeKo now offers foundry services specifically for that. Casting your alloy concepts into reality: From ingot manufacturing (up to 110 mm and 5 kg) to chemical and structural analysis, we provide full in-house capabilities — including tailored adjustments and verification of key properties like mechanical strength or bioresorbability. Together with trusted partners, we turn your castings into semi-finished products like tubes, sheets, and wires, and ultimately into high-precision medical components manufactured at MeKo. Whether you're refining a Magnesium alloy or developing something new, we support you from the very first step!

Complex problems need clever minds and the right tools to solve them. And right now, with summer fading and work picking up, it’s a good time to look ahead. Our free MeKo Webinars are here to support your next steps in medical device innovation. Whether you’re working with stents, valve frames or other critical devices, our sessions offer deep insights into materials, processes, and simulations – all tailored for engineers, developers, and MedTech professionals. Our bioresorbable magnesium alloy Resoloy® is just one of the highlights you’ll find in the lineup. Curious how it compares to polymer-based options? Our webinars have the answers. Let this transition from summer to fall be a time of renewed ideas.

Even at the micron level, we see the bigger picture. Precision at MeKo begins where most others stop: at the edge of the visible. For us, laser microfabrication isn’t just about hitting tight specs. It’s about shaping features so small they’re almost invisible, yet absolutely essential to how a device performs. Our ultrashort pulse lasers unveil geometry with ± 5 µm accuracy while eliminating thermal artifacts in metals and plastics alike. Whether it’s tiny holes in a drug delivery balloon , ultra-thin struts in a stent , or intricate slots in a micro-screen , we turn complex ideas into high-performance components that hold up in the real world. And we don’t stop at cutting. From the first design to final inspection, we collaborate with you through every step —CAD, FEA , post-treatment and inspection —to make sure the result supports your goals. Every part is made to perform exactly as it should. Curious what’s possible when microprecision meets experience? Let’s talk.

This month, we zoom in on the heart valve frame : the engineered backbone behind minimally invasive transcatheter valve therapies. Picture a Nitinol or cobalt chromium scaffold, crimped down to a whisper-thin profile for catheter delivery, then deployed inside a beating heart, expanding right where it needs to. That’s the frame behind TAVI, TMVI, TMTT and it plays a bigger role than most think . What looks delicate is actually built to last. The geometry needs to stay flexible enough for delivery but strong enough to resist fatigue over millions of cycles. It has to expand reliably, hold its shape, and connect cleanly with sealing skirts or leaflet systems — all while minimizing paravalvular leakage year in, year out. At MeKo, we manufacture these frames with tight tolerances and a clear focus on what matters in the final device. Laser-cutting, shape-setting, electropolishing and quality control. Every step is tuned for mechanical reliability , clean surfaces and consistent performance . These frames form the heart of the device, quietly setting the rhythm for everything that follows.

The new website of MeKo MedLab is now live! 🎉 Founded in 2024 as a spin-off from MeKo Manufacturing, MeKo MedLab focuses on what matters most in medical technology: trust through quality. As an impartial laboratory, we specialize in testing high-precision components such as stents, balloon catheters, and guidewires. For our customers, this creates new efficiencies : components manufactured at MeKo can now be tested just a few steps away — with streamlined coordination and consistent quality standards. Testing is carried out under clearly defined impartiality rules, ensuring that all results remain objective, regardless of the products origin. The new website offers a compact and intuitive layout: clearly organized testing methods provide a clear overview of our services, while news and upcoming events are just one click away. See for yourself and explore our capabilities at www.meko-medlab.com

Meet Anna Grote , our coating expert at MeKo and a passionate triathlete in her free time. Her journey began a few years ago with our company’s running group . Over time, running turned into a real passion and last year, Anna took on her first triathlon. Now she’s a team captain in the Lower Saxony league for Hannover 96 Triathlon and just completed a 70.3 Middle Distance race in Sweden: 1.9 km swim, 90 km bike, 21.1 km run. Total time: 5 hours and 30 minutes. The sport demands more than just physical strength: it takes strategy , focus , and serious mental grit . Anyone who’s raced knows the moment when your legs burn, your focus fades, and you just want to lie down. That’s when the real race begins— and where Anna keeps going. It’s the same mindset she brings to MeKo, not only as an athlete, but as head of our coating division. Our partners benefit directly from that kind of resilience , especially when timelines are tight and the requirements leave no room for compromise. Personal tip: Keep an eye out this October as she shares practical insights on polymer coatings for medical applications. Congratulations, Anna! 🎉 Your energy is inspiring and that smile at the finish line said it all.

Meet MeKo at Upcoming Trade Fairs & Conferences! Face-to-face conversations often make the difference in clarifying a technical detail, exploring new ideas, or finding the right approach for a complex design. In the second half of this year, we’ll again be attending key industry events around the world. Come meet us to connect and explore how we can support your project with our manufacturing know-how and seamless scalability from prototype to series production. Stay tuned for event details. If you'd like to arrange a meeting in advance, feel free to get in touch. See you there!

If you're still looking for the right manufacturer for your project, this one’s for you. At MeKo, we don’t just offer precision — we live it . Across teams, shifts, and materials, there's always someone who knows exactly how to solve the challenge at hand. And if not, they’ll know who to ask. Together with our clients, we’ve spent years fine-tuning components, materials, and designs and our teams have gained more hands-on knowledge with every step of the way. From stainless steel and Nitinol to polymers and bioresorbable materials, we turn complex ideas into high-quality reality. You don’t have to take our word for it, let us show you .

As a founding member of the PRIME Project , we at MeKo are proud to be part of a strategic collaboration providing high-performance Nitinol across the full value chain, from ingot to implant . In our new joint press release, we share the goals, structure, and scope of the initiative together with our partners Fort Wayne Metals , Vascotube GmbH , EUROFLEX GmbH and ADMEDES . Our shared focus: advancing material consistency, promoting transparency, and strengthening the global Nitinol supply chain . The full release is now available at www.meko.de/press .

In our latest MedTech Insights , everything revolves around Nitinol , the shape memory material that plays a key role in some of today’s most advanced medical devices. We’re sharing insights into a new industry initiative, highlights from recent trade shows, and how flexibility shapes not just our materials, but our mindset. Want to stay up to date with MeKo? You can subscribe to our newsletter here .

A patient with a severe nickel allergy and multiple health complications recently reached out to us again. Despite ongoing efforts on her part, she still has no access to a stent that her body can tolerate. She’s not alone. Around 13% of the global population are allergic to nickel — more than one billion people worldwide. Vasculoy® offers a reliable solution for cases like hers. Developed specifically for vascular implants, this alloy is completely free of nickel and cobalt. It combines high mechanical performance with excellent corrosion resistance, proven MRI compatibility and unrestricted biocompatibility. If there’s no nickel-free option available in your region, you can be the first to offer one and provide relief for patients who urgently need it. To learn more, watch our Vasculoy® webinar with detailed insights into performance, testing, and applications.

Curious how things are progressing in Costa Rica? This week, the first container has arrived at our new site. The seal was symbolically opened by our colleague Andrea Cuadra , officially marking the start of the unloading process. Everything went smoothly, and the next phase is already in motion. Starting next week, our IT team will begin setting up the technical infrastructure on site. Thanks to everyone who made this overseas delivery possible — from planning and shipping to on-site logistics. We are looking forward to everything that lies ahead!

Join us at DeviceTalks Minnesota , where the vibrant MedTech community meets at the heart of innovation. On 11 June , MeKo will be at the McNamara Alumni Center in Minneapolis and ready to talk precision manufacturing for the next generation of medical devices. From laser-cut hypotubes, stents and valve frames to polymer coatings and drug delivery solutions: MeKo offers cutting-edge technology, rapid prototyping, and scalable production — all under one roof . If you're looking for a reliable partner to bring complex components to life, we look forward to meeting you.

We’ve joined forces with four other companies in the Nitinol supply chain to validate and provide an alternative Nitinol ingot under real manufacturing conditions. Each partner brought its own standards, experience, and expectations and together, we put the material through its paces. It was pushed, challenged, and verified by those who know exactly what to look for. The result: full ASTM compliance, reliable mechanical performance, strong surface quality, and validated processing across three material grades, each suited to specific applications. PRIME isn’t about claiming leadership. It’s about trust, collaboration , and letting the results speak for themselves. Learn more at prime-ingot.com

Our expert Kai Leymann is live on site at the SMST in Galway and ready to talk all things Nitinol – from shape setting and Af tuning to high-precision manufacturing of stents, valve frames, and more. Stop by our booth and let’s dive into your latest ideas and innovations!

From ingot to implant, expertise is aligning across the Nitinol value chain. The details are still under wraps but what lies beneath the curtain will be worth revealing. Stay tuned.

In just a few days, the MeKo team will be at the International Conference on Shape Memory and Superelastic Technologies (SMST) in Ireland. We’re looking forward to diving deep into the world of Nitinol — from advanced laser processing and shape setting to the latest innovations in medical device manufacturing. If you're working with shape memory alloys or developing next-gen implants, come by our booth and connect with us. See you there!

“ Nitinol is brilliant in theory but frustrating in practice. ” It’s a sentiment we’ve heard more than once. Just yesterday, one of our MeKo-Teams shared a story from a recent meeting . Our project partners casually mentioned a few other internal initiatives and every time Nitinol came up, the atmosphere shifted. You could feel the hesitation. The doubt. Questions about feasibility and timelines suddenly rose to the surface. Nitinol has earned its reputation: superelastic, biocompatible, and full of potential — but also notoriously difficult to manufacture with precision. Unless you’re working with a partner who truly understands it . At MeKo, we’ve spent decades doing exactly that. From building our own laser systems to refining every in-house finishing process, we handle every detail — from the first cut to the final polish. Whether it’s a stent, a valve frame, a hypotube, or a complex implant, each component is produced with consistency, precision, and deep technical know-how . We don’t just make Nitinol work. We make it work for you.

We're excited to join the International Conference on Shape Memory and Superelastic Technologies (SMST) in Ireland on 22 May ! As a global leader in high-precision nitinol manufacturing for medical devices, MeKo will be showcasing its expertise in: Ultra-precise laser cutting Advanced shape setting Perfect surface finishing Reliable corrosion resistance Fully integrated in-house processes Whether you're working on stents, heart valve frames, or neurovascular implants — let’s talk about how we can support your next innovation .

We're counting down to DeviceTalks Boston on April 30 and May 1 . If you’re attending, make sure to stop by Booth #716 to meet the MeKo team in person. We’ll be showcasing how our high-precision laser manufacturing enables cutting-edge medical devices – from bioresorbable stents to microstructured hypotubes . Still need access? A few VIP tickets are left for our customers and partners – contact your project manager to reserve yours. See you in Boston!

Remember this heart pendant? We 3D-printed it from Vasculoy® — our own nickel-free alloy — as a tribute to what drives us at MeKo: turning materials into solutions that improve lives. But Vasculoy® isn’t just symbolic. It’s a real game-changer for stent design: Nickel-free — for safer outcomes in sensitive patients L605-compatible — adopt without redesign MRI clear — with 55 % fewer artifacts than 316LVM In other words: ready for today’s clinical challenges — and tomorrow’s innovations . Getting Curious? Contact our experts today or come meet us in person at one of our upcoming trade shows . We will see you there!

It’s been a while since the last in-person event – time to reconnect! On April 30 and May 1 , the MeKo team will be at DeviceTalks Boston , ready to dive into conversations about current projects, new ideas, and innovative laser manufacturing solutions for the medical device industry. Whether you want to discuss next steps on a prototype, explore high-precision components like stents, heart valve frames, hypotubes or neuroretrievers, or just get inspired by what’s possible – Booth #716 is the place to be. We also have a limited number of VIP tickets available. If you’re interested, just reach out to your personal project manager. We’re looking forward to meeting you in Boston!

We’re proud to see our colleague Huu Chánh Trinh contributing valuable insights to the scientific community with his latest publication in Materials Science and Engineering: A , developed in collaboration with Charles University in Prague. The study takes a closer look at Resoloy® microtubes – and uncovers how their microstructure shapes the mechanical behavior and degradation profile of bioresorbable cardiovascular stents. What influence do grain boundaries, residual stress, or in vitro environments really have on implant performance ? Discover the full article here. DOI: www.doi.org/10.1016/j.msea.2025.148274

Congratulations to our colleagues Stefano (see image) and Christian, who successfully completed their CNC industry specialist training at Bildungswerk der Niedersächsischen Wirtschaft gGmbH . Over six months and 200 hours, they deepened their expertise in CNC technology and control systems – now they are ready to apply their skills in our production. 🎉 To ensure that we are delivering high-quality devices, we actively invest in the professional development of our team. Alongside CNC training, we regularly conduct internal courses, such as our recent cleanroom training, to ensure the highest standards in our processes.

Medical technology is constantly evolving, and so are the solutions that drive it forward. When developing medical devices, every detail matters – especially when it comes to durability, biocompatibility, and performance. The right coating can make all the difference, ensuring optimal functionality, longevity, and even controlled drug release. That’s why we’ve expanded our expertise with Polymer Coating . Whether you need protective layers for sensitive components or drug-eluting coatings for implants, our tailored solutions help you push the boundaries of what’s possible in medical technology. Curious to see how Polymer Coating can enhance your products? Learn more here.

Just as nature awakens, why not give your MedTech expertise a boost? Our free MeKo Webinars offer valuable insights into cutting-edge materials and technologies shaping the future of medical devices. From our self-developed materials Resoloy® , Vasculoy® , and PolyMediX® to advanced simulation services, our webinars are designed to help engineers, R&D professionals, and MedTech innovators stay ahead in their field. 📅 Available anytime, anywhere – online and free ! Curious? Let this season of renewal inspire you. Expand your knowledge, explore new possibilities, and innovate with confidence. Discover more at www.meko.de/webinars

Meet the two experts leading the establishment of our new MeKo facility in Costa Rica. Bringing this ambitious project to life requires deep expertise and dedication. Kai Leymann , our long-standing Nitinol expert, and Andrea Cuadra , our local project manager from Costa Rica, are at the forefront of this journey. From selecting the right machinery To recruiting top talent To shaping the design of the facility together with our MeKo-Teams in Germany Every decision they make paves the way for MeKo’s expansion into the MedTech hub of Costa Rica. Exciting challenges lie ahead, and we can’t wait to share more milestones soon!

At MeKo, we’re passionate about continuous learning to stay at the forefront of technical innovation and excellence . Last Friday, we held an internal cleanroom training session led by our Coating Process Manager, Anna Grote. Over 90 minutes, eight dedicated colleagues delved into cleanroom essentials – from air purity and particle limits to mastering the precise protocols required in a high-tech environment. They refreshed their skills on cleaning and maintenance practices, as well as the proper order for donning protective gear. Upon completion, certificates were awarded to mark their progress. We’re gearing up for another session this week with more colleagues to ensure a consistent knowledge base across our team. We believe that investing in our people not only boosts quality assurance but also sparks curiosity and fuels innovation.

We are expanding – and our journey takes us to Costa Rica!🌎 Right now, this hall may be empty – but soon, it will be a state-of-the-art production facility for your high-precision medical devices. Our new site in Costa Rica will bring us even closer to our customers on the other side of the world, optimize logistics, and expand our manufacturing capabilities in the heart of the MedTech industry. Why Costa Rica? A thriving MedTech ecosystem High-quality manufacturing standards Access to top talent and innovation This is just the beginning! In the coming weeks, we’ll take you behind the scenes and introduce you to the people making this vision a reality.

Three incredible days at MD&M West have come to a close, and what an inspiring journey it’s been! From groundbreaking innovations to engaging conversations and strategic insights, this event truly showcased the future of medical device manufacturing and development. The vibrant spirit of California was captured in every moment – from the welcoming MD&M West sign at the entrance to the relaxed atmosphere in the interior courtyard. As we reflect on these memorable experiences, we're already looking forward to the next edition of MD&M West. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who visited us at Booth #2691 and contributed to the dynamic energy of these three days. Let’s keep pushing the boundaries of MedTech together!

As we step into the Spring festival , we celebrate the qualities of the Snake: wisdom, competence, and idealism. People born in the Year of the Snake are said to be naturally curious, driven by a desire to explore and understand the world around them. This would make them excellent researchers, always digging deeper to find innovative solutions. At MeKo, we embrace this spirit of curiosity and precision in everything we do. Whether it’s developing high-precision stents or creating life-saving components, we are constantly striving to push boundaries and discover new possibilities. May the Year of the Snake inspire us all to remain curious, innovative, and committed to making a difference.🐍

Just one week to go until MD&M West 2025 in Anaheim! We’re thrilled to be exhibiting from February 4–6 at Booth #2691. If you haven’t already, mark your calendar and plan your visit to discover how our precision laser manufacturing solutions can elevate your projects. See you soon!

Save the Date: Meet MeKo at Upcoming Trade Fairs & Conferences! We’re excited to connect with you, exchange ideas, and discuss how we can bring your medical device innovations to life. Stay tuned for event details, and get ready to join us for meaningful conversations and lasting partnerships. If you’d like to pre-schedule a meeting, we invite you to reach out to us. See you there!

This nickel-free pendant, crafted from our self-developed Vasculoy® alloy using cutting-edge 3D printing technology, was created as a special symbol of our dedication to precision and innovation in medical technology. It even features a design inspired by classic stent patterns – a nod to the heart of what we do daily to improve patients’ lives. Did you know? Around 13 % of the global population is allergic to nickel. That’s why we developed Vasculoy®, a material that combines higher biocompatibility with comparable material properties to classic alloys. This pendant is just one example of what we can achieve. From customized implants to advanced prototypes, we deliver tailored solutions to meet the highest medical standards. Here’s to pushing the boundaries of MedTech together!

MeKo is renowned for the manufacturing of high-precision medical devices. At MeKo, quality and precision are continuously monitored throughout the manufacturing process using extensive testing equipment. This expertise, developed over decades, is now being applied to establish a testing laboratory for medical devices - MeKo MedLab . This is another step towards offering our customers a comprehensive range of manufacturing processes from a single source. In order to provide even better support to our customers during their product development and approval process, we have tackled the ISO 17025 accreditation of our new test laboratory. Whether you are already partnering with MeKo and want to gain additional knowledge about your components or require an external lab for material testing, MeKo MedLab offers over 30 years of expertise. In preparation for the accreditation, we decided to partner with the consulting company KONSEK Engineering . The most convincing benefit was KONSEK's structured approach of the 17025 starter program . If you have any questions, feel free to contact us or our laboratory manager Tim Rittinghaus .

We are thrilled to introduce the latest advancements in our in-house Resoloy® casting capabilities, setting new standards for precision and innovation in MedTech manufacturing. By maintaining full control over the production process and material quality, we can tailor the properties of Resoloy® to meet the specific design requirements of implants, such as stents, all within the framework of our patented technology.