computer science
june 2015
image source
CNN
19
The uses of the devices similar to the Biostamp continue to advance. Scientists are testing biocompatible devices that electronically stimulate organs, and one day they may replace drugs used for the same purpose. Such devices would be able to treat and diagnose organ problems. So far, the devices have been tested on the surface of the heart as pacemakers and on the pelvic nerve to diagnose bladder dysfunction. The best part? These biocompatible devices dissolve in the body after they have completed their tasks.
The science behind the functionality of these flexible electronic devices is that the boards from the circuits in the technology are removed. This allows the components in the circuit to be miniaturized to a nano-level. When the components are miniaturized, it allows the creation of a device that is not affected by water and being stretched out of shape. However, this leads to one major question: where will the power come from? Scientists still are not sure, but they have experimented with body motion generating the mechanical power to create the necessary microwatts to power the device.
As great as they sound, Biostamps and other similar devices are still not available to healthcare providers. The devices are still being tested on rodents due to various safety issues that scientists have encountered. The major risk that scientists are trying to eliminate is the risk of foreign objects in the body, which could have bad effects.
Overall, Biostamps and other similar devices will prove to be a great medical breakthrough in the near future.
source
CNN