Bug-inspired coating could make for better bone and joint implants

Inspired by the wings of dragonflies and cicadas, researchers have developed a new coating for orthopedic implants. It not only shreds harmful bacteria, but also monitors stress on the system, meaning it could warn of impending implant failure.Continue… Continue reading Bug-inspired coating could make for better bone and joint implants

Special headgear allows deaf athletes to better hear shouts and cheers

When deaf athletes with cochlear implants take part in sports like rugby, they have to wear headgear that protects the external parts of their implant. A new wearable serves that same purpose, while reportedly allowing users to hear the sounds around t… Continue reading Special headgear allows deaf athletes to better hear shouts and cheers

Implantable graphene e-tattoo uses light to monitor, correct arrhythmias

A team of researchers led by Northwestern University and the University of Texas at Austin (UT) have developed a novel graphene heart implant that’s about the thickness of a strand of hair and monitors and corrects abnormal heart rhythms using light.Co… Continue reading Implantable graphene e-tattoo uses light to monitor, correct arrhythmias

Light-activated biodegradable implant delivers meds on demand

While there are already a variety of implants that dispense medication within the body, most of them either can’t be externally controlled, or they eventually have to be surgically removed. A new one, however, uses light to avoid both problems.Continue… Continue reading Light-activated biodegradable implant delivers meds on demand

Spinal cord stimulation restores limb mobility in stroke survivors

A promising trial of spinal electrical stimulation that instantly boosts movement and dexterity in the arms and hands of stroke survivors has the potential to greatly improve quality of life for those with chronic motor function loss.Continue ReadingCa… Continue reading Spinal cord stimulation restores limb mobility in stroke survivors

Implantable “sponge” fights off cancer in striking mouse study

Researchers at UCLA have developed a small sponge that can be implanted next to a tumor to help the body fight it. In tests in mice, the devices induced remission, prevented growth and spread of cancers, and increased survival times.Continue ReadingCat… Continue reading Implantable “sponge” fights off cancer in striking mouse study

Subdermal implant could boost islet cell therapy for diabetics

While islet cell transplants allow some diabetics to forgo daily insulin injections, those people have to take immunosuppressive drugs in order to keep the cells from being rejected. A new implant, however, could administer the drugs for them – in much… Continue reading Subdermal implant could boost islet cell therapy for diabetics

MIT implantable ventilator could literally let patients breathe easier

It’s a sad fact that people with conditions such as muscular dystrophy and ALS often have difficulty breathing, as their diaphragm muscle doesn’t work properly. MIT scientists have set out to give that muscle a boost, with an implantable ventilator.Con… Continue reading MIT implantable ventilator could literally let patients breathe easier

“Smart” drill designed to speed and simplify cochlear implant surgery

The installation of a cochlear implant is a tricky procedure, in which certain nerves may be damaged if the surgeon isn’t sufficiently careful. A new “smart” surgical drill is designed to help, by automatically shutting off if it gets too close to thos… Continue reading “Smart” drill designed to speed and simplify cochlear implant surgery