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| Image Source: bls.gov |
The application of biomedical engineering in the medical field has been studied for many years. The goal of this field is to help create systems that would help medical professionals diagnose illnesses faster, more efficiently, and with the least amount of inconvenience to patients. A proper diagnosis could then lead to better treatment. Biomedical engineering also studies the use of technology to innovate treatment options. Nevertheless, it is only until recently that scientists are starting to overcome the hurdles to this field of study. This may be due to the rapid growth of modern technology. For example, innovations meant for commercial applications such as high-definition cameras, scanners, and pumps have found their use in the study of artificial organ technology.
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| Image Source: imedicalapps.com |
For example, scientists recently created an artificial lung for newborn infants that consisted of stackable single oxygenator units (SOUs) that help facilitate breathing. The engineering of the lung assist device (LAD) and the use of the SOUs are a classic example of how biomedical engineering is utilizing the development of technology to create devices that could be used to ease medical treatment.
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| Image Source: rt.com |
Another example would be the development of 3-D printing to effectively and safely scan the body for possible illnesses. Recently in Boston, doctors were able to create the first synthetic blood vessels through the process of artificial vascularization aided by advances in 3-D printing and biomaterials. Doctors and scientists still agree that much research still needs to be made into these artificial organs so that they will function perfectly within the patient’s body. However, they remain optimistic and hopeful that these advances are milestones in creating a better and healthier society.
Riyesh Menon finished his master’s degree in biomedical engineering at Rutgers University and currently works for a medical device company. Like this Google+ page for the latest in biomedical engineering.
