Medicine has always relied on technology since the early ages. Constant advances in the pharmaceutical and medical field have saved millions of lives and cured many ailments. In line with that, innovative gadgets and equipment also continue to improve the quality of health care. No one can accurately predict what advancements may come next but one thing is for sure, millions of lives will benefit from premium medical care.
In this article, we will discuss what technology can do to support the field of medicine today.
Age of Machines
Although we humans will always be superior in terms of intellect, understanding, and reasoning, the introduction of man-made machines like robots in the field of medicine is undeniably impressive. According to an article released by idataresearch.com, in 2017 alone, approximately 693,000 robotic procedures were performed in the US with a success rate of 95%.
Robotic surgery is used to perform minimally invasive procedures and can achieve high levels of precision, control, and flexibility. As technology innovates, the combination of robotics and augmented reality came to possibility and this has allowed surgeons to view the insides of a patient in real-time during the operation.
Health Wearables and Handheld Devices
The demand for wearable and handheld devices has grown since their introduction in the late ’20s. Nowadays, people use their phones for almost everything. For instance, applications are capable of counting steps, regulating physical fitness, determining heart rate, and encouraging sleep. The advancement of wearable and handheld technologies is in conjunction with helping patients to monitor and improve their health as well as elevate the quality of a healthcare provider’s performance.
For example, in a study conducted by BioMed Central LTD, results showed that handheld computers have a significant effect when it comes to improving a medical doctor’s overall performance as it enables them to instantly access information and prescribe educated recommendations. These handheld computers are like flagship smartphones but without the call and messaging functions. There are prominent PDA (personal digital assistant) manufacturers if you are curious about how this tech works. If you already have one these cool devices, for example Zebra, repairs are available via online or through certified repair centers.
3D Printing and Artificial Organs
3D printing in the world of health care is ground-breaking, with that the birth of bio-printing. It is an emerging medical technology that can help patients with an inborn or acquired disability. 3D bio-printing produces incredible results that enable the regeneration of skin cells for severe burns and recreate skin like prosthetics.
In addition to this wonderful breakthrough is that scientists and medical experts have been able to create synthetic internal components of the body such as blood vessels, ovaries, and the like. Acting as a replacement to the original, these artificial organs function and grow within the patient’s body. Imagine, millions of lives benefit immensely from these life-saving transplants every year.
Key Takeaway
With the rapid advancement of technology and medicine, there are a lot of possibilities and discoveries that can be made in no time. Incurable illnesses may meet their ultimate cures. The impossible procedures may become possible. Technological innovations have been proven to improve the ability of medical professionals to diagnose and treat health problems of all kinds. Who knows what more does future technology have in store for humanity.
