Developing medical devices with emerging technologies: trends, challenges, and future directions

This paper examines the rapid advancements and integration of emerging technologies in the medical field, particularly focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), Augmented Reality (AR), and cybersecurity. The study leverages data from Scopus and Web of Science databases to highlight the trends, challenges, and future directions in the development of medical devices. Significant progress has been made in enhancing patient care through the integration of AI and IoMT, which facilitate predictive analytics, personalized treatment plans, and real-time data monitoring. AR is transforming medical training and surgical precision, while cybersecurity measures are becoming increasingly vital to protect sensitive health data. Despite these advancements, the field faces challenges such as data privacy concerns, infrastructure limitations, and interoperability issues. The study also explores Africa's contributions, with a particular emphasis on Morocco's emerging role in this technological landscape. Three major research clusters identified include AI and AR, IoT and cybersecurity, and embedded systems, each playing an important role in the evolution of medical technologies. By analyzing publications from 2010 to 2024, the paper provides insights into the current state and future potential of advanced medical technologies, aiming to offer a foundation for further research and innovation in this rapidly evolving field.