Giving medical equipment a new life: High-tech logistics in action

For nearly a decade, we at MTAB have supported FlexRay Medical by carefully dismantling and transporting sensitive diagnostic imaging equipment. FlexRay then repurposes this equipment, extending its lifespan and significantly improving patient care worldwide.

From Scandinavia to the world

Every year, European hospitals replace advanced imaging systems, from MRI and CT scanners to ultrasound and PET/CT equipment. These valuable technologies, if handled correctly, can dramatically improve healthcare in regions lacking resources for brand-new devices. Simon Dyrup Nielsen, Chief Procurement Officer & Partner at FlexRay Medical, underscores the importance of this circular economy:

– The circular economy in medical technology reduces waste, conserves resources, and extends equipment lifespan. But beyond environmental benefits, reusing medical devices is crucial for healthcare providers in developing countries. Equipment considered outdated in Scandinavia often significantly advances medical care in less privileged regions. Simply put, our participation in the circular economy saves lives.

Precision in every step

Ensuring diagnostic imaging equipment remains functional after relocation demands meticulous handling. Simon explains:

– Diagnostic imaging involves highly sensitive technologies, whether MRI systems using magnetic fields, ultrasound systems employing ultrasonic waves, or PET systems detecting cancer cells. Proper dismantling, testing, transport, and reinstallation are essential to maintaining accuracy and functionality. That’s why we select our partners carefully.

Jon Damlund, Business Area Manager High Tech/Tour Logistics at MTAB

Jon Damlund, Business Area Manager High Tech/Tour Logistics at MTAB, highlights the significance of the collaboration:

– We greatly value our collaboration with FlexRay. They play a crucial role in our work with hospital equipment dismantling throughout the Nordic region.

We have proven our value as FlexRay’s trusted logistics partner through numerous successful projects. Our expertise was clearly demonstrated in the efficient one-day deinstallation of a Philips CT scanner on Bornholm, Denmark, in November 2024. Additionally, an intricate project in Aarhus, Denmark, in October 2024 involved the careful removal of a Siemens CT system, crane-assisted extraction, and simultaneous installation of new equipment.

Human impact beyond sustainability

While environmental considerations are often highlighted in circular economy discussions, the human impact deserves equal attention. Simon emphasizes:

– Medical devices destined for landfills in Scandinavia can instead transform healthcare elsewhere. Repurposed equipment directly benefits patients, providing access to advanced diagnostics and better care outcomes for years ahead.

This human-centered approach was exemplified during a comprehensive radiology department closure in March-April 2022, where we at MTAB supported FlexRay in efficiently managing the sustainable removal and repurposing of 17 different imaging systems, showcasing our capability to handle large-scale projects precisely.

Further demonstrating our specialized expertise, we collaborated closely with FlexRay, Siemens, and GE Healthcare during the careful five-day removal of two MRI systems from Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen in November 2020. This project highlighted our commitment to ensuring equipment functionality and patient safety post-relocation.

Through our dedicated support, we help FlexRay advance sustainability while positively impacting global healthcare—showcasing how excellence in logistics profoundly enhances patient care worldwide.