Brain model from the 3D printer (top) and SVAN injection device
(Vienna, 14 April 2025) Austria is one of 160 participating countries presenting ideas and solutions for shaping a prosperous future for society under the official Expo theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”. MedUni Vienna is represented by two innovations developed at the Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering: SVAN and 3D-Gehirn.
SVAN (Safe Vascular Access Needle for Neonates) is an injection device for neonatal emergencies that enables intraosseous access. This allows life-saving medication to be administered within a few seconds. The development team includes Gunpreet Coudert Oberoi and Ewald Unger (Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering), who will travel to Osaka on the initiative of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber. “The invitation to present our SVAN project at Expo Osaka 2025 is a confirmation of the commitment and collaboration that led to the founding of SVAN by an interdisciplinary team. It represents international recognition of the innovative work we are doing at the Medical University of Vienna in the field of groundbreaking medical devices and patient-specific simulation training. We are proud to represent MedUni Vienna on this global stage,” emphasises Gunpreet Coudert Oberoi.
To the project
In addition to SVAN, the Austrian pavilion will also showcase the world’s first 3D-printed brain model, developed by researchers at MedUni Vienna, TU Vienna and the University of Zurich. It is modelled on the structure of brain fibres and can be visualised using a special variant of magnetic resonance imaging. Scientific studies have already shown that this innovation can be used to advance research into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis. Michael Woletz (Center for Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering) from the development team points out: “The fact that our 3D-printed brain model is now being shown as part of the Austrian Pavilion in Osaka underlines the international relevance of our research and offers a promising platform for making innovative approaches in imaging and research into neurodegenerative diseases accessible to a broad audience.”
To the project
Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, is taking place from 13 April to 13 October 2025 on the artificial island of Yumeshima. Its motto is “Designing Future Society for Our Lives” and it serves as a platform for international innovations and visions of the future. Around 160 countries are taking part in the world’s fair, and the organisers expect over 28 million visitors during the six-month period. (cover photo © Expo Austria/BWM Designers & Architects)
AloJapan.com