The many aspects of the medical textiles market are surveyed both for suppliers and distributors. With a 5%pa global growth rate and USD7bn sales, the market is large and comprises three basic categories patient specific, general patient management and procedure specific, and these are explained. The major segments are sterilization wraps, gowns and drapes, incontinence care and masks, with descriptive paragraphs on each. The major players Kimberly Clark, DuPont, PGI, BBA Nonwovens and Dexter are discussed in product terms with the major distributors similarly identified. The most important current issue is the transmission of diseases to health care workers and patient protection from environmental contamination and infection by health car workers. Design issues covered are barrier performance, strength, sterilization stability, comfort and breathability and linting. New products and technology include gowns and drapes, biodegradable fabrics, membranes and nonwoven fabric developments. Cost containment is vital and patentable designs and proprietary processes.