Controversial discussions on current topics in medical technology are usual in Web 2.0. But how can any point of view be assessed? How do I know what the right solution is for my problem? Who can I trust? Information found on the Internet is not always helpful; in fact, some of it can be confusing. Personal exchanges are in demand especially for complex topics in medical technology. Getting tips directly from the experts, asking questions in person and sharing experiences – these things cannot be underestimated.

And this is where TRUMPF Medical Systems intends to step in: "As a company, we cooperate with many different companies, work together with many other manufacturers and have good connections with well-known clinics. We use this network to convey current information consisely, independently and realistically," explains Kamran Tahbazian, Head of Marketing at TRUMPF Medical Systems. with our expert forums, we hope to create a venue for discussing trends and topics that drive the industry from different and even controversial viewpoints."

TRUMPF Medical Systems held its third expert forum on July, 20. Seven representatives from various hospitals and companies discussed trends in hybrid ORs with about 100 architects and planners. The forum focused on issues surrounding hygiene and ergonomics.

The idea of a regularly held event of this kind was hatched at a trade show. "Planners and architects continually showed interest in the topic of a hybrid OR. However, there was no suitable environment for exchanging ideas. At the MEDICA 2009 trade show, we offered our customers an exclusive series of presentations on this topic at our booth," says Gabriele Münch, director of sales at TRUMPF Medical Systems in Germany. "The event was that successful that we are now repeating it regularly in Ditzingen in a much larger space." The corporate headquarters of the TRUMPF Group in Ditzingen near Stuttgart is the ideal location for the forums. In March 2010, the first full-day follow-up event was held with participants from all over the world attending.

"New visions often emerge from such rounds of discussions. They promote discussion and stimulate sharing of ideas," says Tahbazian. The positive feedback from previous participants encouraged the event planners to host more. “The first three expert forums were geared toward architects and planners. In the future, we also intend to offer discussion topics for medical technicians, nurses and caregivers," he says. The next event is in the planning stages. The exact dates and topics will be announced on the company's website.