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The document discusses advancements in artificial organs and prosthetics, highlighting innovations such as artificial kidneys, hearts, lungs, retinas, and limbs that have transformed healthcare and improved the lives of individuals with organ failures or limb loss. It addresses the ethical considerations and challenges associated with these technologies while emphasizing the potential for future developments to enhance human capabilities and quality of life. The article also mentions key players in the industry and current applications of these technologies in medical and sensory restoration fields.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
10 views26 pages

Reflection RTP105

The document discusses advancements in artificial organs and prosthetics, highlighting innovations such as artificial kidneys, hearts, lungs, retinas, and limbs that have transformed healthcare and improved the lives of individuals with organ failures or limb loss. It addresses the ethical considerations and challenges associated with these technologies while emphasizing the potential for future developments to enhance human capabilities and quality of life. The article also mentions key players in the industry and current applications of these technologies in medical and sensory restoration fields.
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
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Available Formats
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53

RTP105

Advancements in Artificial Organs and


Prosthetics: Bridging the Gap Between
Biology and Technology
Meer Zeshanul Wazid¹, Jubaida Niyasa Chowdhury², Rejwana Habib
Ome³

¹Biotechnology (BIO), Dept. of MNS, Brac University,


[Link]@[Link]

²Biotechnology (BIO), Dept. of MNS, Brac University,


[Link]@[Link]

³Biotechnology (BIO), Dept. of MNS, Brac University,


[Link]@[Link]

Abstract

The article explores the intriguing connection between biology and


technology in the field of artificial organs and prostheses. It highlights
amazing advances such as prosthetic kidneys, hearts, lungs, retinas, and
limbs. These advances have altered healthcare and empowered those
who have lost limbs or organs. In addition, the essay highlights
significant actors in this industry, as well as ethical considerations,
privacy concerns, and prospects. While artificial organs hold enormous
promise, they create complicated ethical and access issues.
Nonetheless, continuous scientific and technical breakthroughs offer
enormous promise for improving human capacities, affordability, and
lifespan in the realm of artificial organs and prostheses in the future.

Keywords: Artificial Organs, Prosthetics, Bioartificial Organs,


Artificial Kidney, Artificial Heart, Jarvik-7, SynCardia, Artificial
Lungs, Artificial Retina, Retinal Disease, Argus II, Artificial Limbs,
Prosthesis, Organ Transplantation Alternatives, Tissue Replacement,
Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs), Bionic Limbs, Artificial Pancreas
Systems, Biocompatibility.
54

Introduction
Have you ever wondered what would happen if the blind could see? If
the damaged organs in a person’s body can be replaced with artificial,
yet working ones? While these things may sound impossible it is a
reality of the present times. The interface of biology and technology,
where inventiveness and compassion merge to change lives, is one of
the most enthralling domains in the rapidly growing field of medical
research and technology. In recent years, the advancements in these
sectors have given escalation to outstanding innovations in the sectors
of artificial organs and prosthetics. It was stated by Wang (2019) that
organ failures were one of the prime reasons for transience all over the
world in the past. Despite the improved pharmacological and clinical
treatments, the death rates due to these organ failures were still high.
Throughout the years, trials have been made to prolong life by
transplanting failed organs, and at present, orthotopic organ
transplantation is the only way to achieve this. However, this process is
still majorly limited due to problems like high cost, immune refusal,
donor deficiency, and moral dilemmas. Later on, with the increasing
advancement in science and technology along with the development of
substantial processing technology, the area of engineering artificial
organs and prosthetics, also known as bioartificial organs, is becoming
more and more fascinating. Now, some might think, what are these
artificial organs? An artificial organ is an artificially made instrument
that can be placed into a human body by connecting them to live tissues
in order to exchange a natural organ that has become incompetent. This
allows a person with organ failure or such condition to return to their
regular life as soon as feasible.

Discoveries
According to Frost & Sullivan (2017), In the year 1982, Jarvik-7, the
first completely functioning artificial heart was designed and was to be
successfully implemented in a human. After that, some successful
inventions have been made and more varieties of organs have been
artificially made and transplanted. Among them, some noteworthy
discoveries are:
55

❖ Artificial Kidney
Kidney failure is common. Patients with this condition can
either choose to transplant or opt for dialysis. While both of
these options can retain some of the disrupted kidney
functions, there are also innumerable drawbacks. As stated by
Nagasubramanian (2021), In the year 1943, Willem Johan
Kloff introduced the first successful artificial Kidney, “The
rotating drum dialyzer”. At present, more advanced options
are available.

Figure 1: Source: Mir, H. V. (2018). Artificial kidney


development leaps forward. The Oldish®.
[Link]
s-leap-forward/

➢ The Portable Artificial Kidney: (Harris, 2022)


These are lightweight and battery-driven devices that
allow a person to filter blood at any time and place.
This ensures frequent wastage removal and dialysis
ability anywhere. This can enhance people’s lifestyle
and make it much easier. AKTIV and The Neokidney
are some devices in development.
➢ The Bioartificial Integrable Kidney: (Harris,
2022) The focus of this device is to be implanted via
surgery. It would have the ability to stay within the
body for several years. This device will comprise a
blood purifying unit along with human kidney cells.
This device performs all tasks performed by a real
kidney such as blood filtration, hormone secretion,
blood pressure control, etc.
56

❖ Artificial Heart

Heart disease can be fatal as it is a significant organ of the body and is


common for many. Although there are many medicines to cure heart
diseases, they seem to be not very effective. Moreover, in the case of
transplantation, the wait for a donor is long and lacks surety of
succession. According to Khan & Jehangir (2014), In the year 1969, the
first artificial heart was implanted in a human by Dr. Denton Cooley.
This device was created using a roller pump that can transfuse blood
continuously. It consists of a net-like texture that is like vascular grafts.
In the coming years, more developments were made in the area of
artificial heart and Dr. Robert Jarvik is known for his successful
permanent artificial heart known as Jarvik-7. Later in 1982, the first
permanent artificial heart was implemented in a 61-year-old patient. In
2010, the Jarvik-7 was renamed as "SynCardia temporary" which
works on a motor with hydraulic and contains two artificial ventricles
and corresponding valves. At present, SynCardia has progressed
temporarily and it makes the patient’s life much easier as it allows them
the ability to perform daily activities. Today, SynCardia is the most
successful artificial heart.

Figure 2: Source: Corscience GmbH & Co. KG. (2021, December 1).
“ReinHeart” Artificial Heart System: Corscience implements physiological
control - Corscience. Corscience
[Link]
m-corscience-implements-physiological-control/
57

❖ Artificial lungs

Lung failures are common among people and many lose their lives due
to it. Though lung transplant is a useful treatment, its number of
limitations such as durability and lack of donors, an interest in the field
of artificial lung support has grown. As per Naito et al. (2018), a new
interest in artificial lung technologies has been fascinating. Patients
suffering from advanced lung failures are at first given support through
mechanical ventilation (MV). After that, in case of an even critical
situation, full lung support is provided known as extracorporeal
membrane oxygenation (ECMO). This device functions like lungs. In
this process,the blood flow from the patient is diverted through an
artificial lung for gas exchange, and then it is returned to the patient.
More advanced artificial lungs are in the making intending to make
people’s lives a little easier and more comfortable.

Figure 3: Source : Rieland, R. (2017, April 7). An Artificial Lung That


Fits In a Backpack. Smithsonian Magazine.
[Link]
ck-180962826/
58

❖ Artificial Retina

As stated by Farvardin et al. (2018), Retinal disease is a common yet


serious widespread disease that results in vision loss as well as
permanent blindness. The number of people suffering from retinal
disease is constantly rising and is expected to triple by the year 2050. In
these circumstances, one can only rely on technology for cures.
Artificial retina, which when integrated in the eyes, allows the blind to
see. In 2013, the first implanted device to treat adults with retinitis
pigmentosa known as Argus II was approved by FDA. This device is
surgically implanted in a patient. After implanting, patients are required
to return after a certain time to program and customize the software
according to their needs. This device consists of a receiver, electronic,
and an electrode array, implanted in and around the eye. Argus II helps
improve alignment and movement. It helps to determine people and
understand their position. A patient with Argus II implanted can
differentiate between colors and shapes. This is a fascinating invention
so far and at present is actively being available to more and more
patients.(American Society of Retina Specialists, n.d.)

Figure 4: Source: Greenemeier, L. (2013). FDA approves first retinal


implant. Nature. [Link]
59

❖ Artificial limbs (Prosthetics)

In case of a missing body part in any individual, an artificial device is


used and in medicine, this is known as a “Prosthesis”. Prosthetics can
be removable which allows a person to change it from time to time or
have different ones for different tasks. E.g., Artificial Hand. There is
also another type of prosthetics that are permanently integrated, such as
artificial teeth. The use of prosthetic limbs has been going on for a long
time. Only in 1948, the electric version of such prosthetics was
introduced and in 1960 the first clinical myoelectrical prosthesis was
revealed. According to the article Prosthetics | Artificial Limbs | Limb
Replacement for Amputees (2021), Prosthetics can be of three types:

➢ Cosmetic Prosthetics: Cosmetic prosthetics are


external prosthetics where the main aim is to provide
a life-like depiction of an absent body part, which
often doesn’t have any functional roles.
➢ Body-Powered Prosthetics: Body-power prosthetics
are a great tool that can restore movement such as
picking up and holding objects. These prosthetics
allow the muscles around it to control the device’s
cables and enable movement. Though it can control
one movement at a time, it provides a greater amount
of freedom to its users.
➢ Myoelectric Prosthetics: The myoelectric prosthetic
is the most functional device for an individual. It
gives a patient the same experience as regulating the
nerves of the same body part. When the device
receives the action abilities, it applies a rechargeable
battery to increase the electrical signal while using
the electric signals to drive the motors that move each
separate part of the limb. This gives more freedom
and spares the person from having to make recurring
and exhausting muscle contractions.
60

Figure 5: Source: Staff, H. (2021, March 25). The science behind


fabricating prosthetic hands and arms. Horton’s Orthotics &
Prosthetics.
[Link]
ic-hands-and-arms/

Prosthetic limbs are essential to people who have lost a body part due
to any disease or accidents or during birth as these can help them
reestablish the abilities that were lost. While these prosthetics cannot
fully copy the limb's functions, it’s still advancing for the better and
will be functioning more like real limbs due to recent significant
developments.

Current Applications & Interests

The combination of biology and technology has yielded remarkable


progress in the advancement of artificial organs and prosthetics. These
advancements have transformed the lives of millions of people
worldwide, providing solutions to organ failure and limb loss. Artificial
organs and prosthetics have current applications in various fields. These
applications advance healthcare, technology, and human capabilities.
Some of the current applications are:
61

❖ Medical Applications
➢ Organ Transplantation Alternatives: Artificial hearts,
kidneys, lungs, and other organs serve as life-saving
alternatives while patients await organ transplants.
➢ Tissue Replacement: Bioengineered tissues and
organs offer potential solutions for patients in need of
replacements for damaged or diseased tissues.
➢ Limb Replacement: Prosthetic limbs, including
advanced bionic and myoelectric devices, restore
mobility and functionality to individuals with limb
loss.
➢ Treatment of Organ Failure: Artificial organs can
provide temporary or long-term solutions for organ
failure due to conditions like heart failure, kidney
disease, or respiratory disorders.
❖ Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs)
➢ These are devices that allow directly connecting the
brain with a computer or other extrinsic equipment.
(Saha et al., 2021)
➢ BCIs enable individuals with paralysis to control
robotic limbs, computer interfaces, and
communication devices using their thoughts. These
systems enhance the independence and
communication abilities of users.
➢ They provide increased flexibility by either usurping
or boosting human outer functioning potential. (Saha
et al., 2021)
❖ Prosthetic Limbs
➢ Bionic Limbs: Advanced prosthetic limbs, including
bionic arms and legs, provide users with natural
movement and sensory feedback, enhancing their
mobility and quality of life. (Fleming et al., 2021)
➢ Myoelectric Prosthetics: Myoelectric prostheses are
controlled by muscle signals, allowing users to
perform precise and coordinated movements.
❖ Sensory Restoration
According to Kleinlogel et al. (2020),

➢ Cochlear Implants: Cochlear implants rehabilitate


hearing in persons who are facing extreme deafness
by precisely reviving the auditory nerve.
62

➢ Retinal Implants: Retinal implants rehabilitate vision


for people with specific kinds of blindness, i.e.
retinitis pigmentosa.
❖ Orthopedic Prosthetics

As per Bashir et al.(2022),

➢ Prosthetic devices for lower limbs, such as


below-knee and above-knee prostheses, enable
amputees to walk and perform daily activities with
greater ease.
➢ Ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) provide support and
improve mobility for individuals with foot drop or
other gait abnormalities.

These present applications demonstrate the various and ever-changing


uses of artificial organs and prostheses to improve healthcare, human
capacities, and overall quality of life for persons with medical
conditions and disabilities.

Figure 6: Source: Cartoon_Based_Lifeforms. (n.d.). Flat icons -


artificial organs. EPS 10. Isolated objects. iStock.
[Link]
m593300008-101804599

Moreover, many companies and research institutions across the world


are engaged in the development and advancement of artificial organs
63

and prosthetics. These organizations are at the frontline of revolution in


bridging the gap between biology and technology.

❖ Medtronic

Medtronic is a global medical technology company, specializing in the


creation of artificial organs and devices. They've made life-saving
gadgets like pacemakers, artificial heart valves, and insulin pumps in
the past (Medtronic, n.d.).

❖ SynCardia Systems

The Total Artificial Heart (TAH), manufactured by SynCardia, is a


device intended to temporarily take the place of the human heart. For
patients awaiting a heart transplant, it serves as a transitional procedure
(Copeland, 2013).

❖ Ossur

An Iceland company, Ossur is a leader in the field of prosthetics and


orthopedic devices. They are known for their advanced prosthetic
limbs, including the Proprio Foot, which uses sensor technology for a
more natural gait (About Össur, n.d.).

❖ Deka Research and Development

The DEKA Arm, a highly sophisticated prosthetic arm with several


degrees of freedom and natural movement, was created by the Deka
business. The Department of Veterans Affairs and DARPA both
provided funding for its development (Resnik et al., 2014).

❖ ReWalk Robotics

ReWalk Robotics creates wearable exoskeletons for those who have


suffered spinal cord injuries. These technologies let people stand, walk,
and explore their surroundings independently. (ReWalk Robotics, 2023)
64

❖ University of Pittsburgh - Rehabilitation Institute

This research institute has made major contributions to the fields of


brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and neural-controlled prosthetics,
working on technologies that allow people who are paralyzed to
operate robotic limbs with their thoughts (Young et al., 2021)

❖ Stanford University - Stanford Biomechatronics Lab

This Stanford lab is dedicated to the development of cutting-edge


prosthetic limbs and exoskeletons, with a focus on improving user
comfort and control. (Biomechatronics Laboratory, n.d.)

To conclude, these organizations are pushing the boundaries of what is


feasible in the realm of artificial organs and prosthetics. Their
transdisciplinary collaboration and technological developments are
bridging the biology-technology divide.

Methodology
Various surveys and interviews with patients and medical professionals
as well as researchers are conducted to understand the challenges
related to organ failures along with limb loss and various healthcare
requirements. Different existing medical data, patient results, and
medical experiences are also evaluated to mark the specific area that
needs to be improved.

Figure 7: Source : The one-year survival rate of liver transplantation


graph exhibits a significant rise from 1987 to 1994, then followed by
relative stability.
65

Figure 8: Source: From 1988 to 2014, the one-year intent-to-treat survival rate
of the liver transplantaion graph is [Link], A., & Godfrey, E. L.
(2019). Outcomes in Solid-Organ Transplantation: Success and stagnation.
Texas Heart Institute Journal, 46(1), 75–76.
[Link]

Moreover, numerous existing research articles, scientific literature, and


patient cases related to artificial organs are thoroughly reviewed and
gaps in knowledge, emerging trends, and areas with potential for
development are identified. Furthermore, some clinical data are
collected and analyzed to determine the effect of technology on
artificial organs and prosthetics as well as consider strategies to make
this technology accessible to a wide population including those with
low resources.

Convergence of Biology and Technology

The convergence of biology and technology has aided in the


advancement of artificial organs and prostheses. According to Bronzino
& Peterson (2016), The following are key components of this
convergence:

❖ Biomaterials: Biomaterial advancements have been critical in


the creation of artificial organs and implants. Biocompatible
polymers, metals, and ceramics have enabled the development
of long-lasting and safe implants. Researchers are also
66

investigating the usage of biodegradable polymers that can be


absorbed by the body without causing long-term problems.
❖ Bioinformatics: Bioinformatics has enabled accurate
contriving and intimating biological processes, assisting in
configuring and optimizing artificial organs. Researchers can
use computational tools and algorithms to examine
complicated biological data and imitate the activity of organs
or prosthetic devices within the body.
❖ Tissue Engineering: Tissue engineering blends biological and
engineering concepts to generate functioning, live tissues. This
approach is especially relevant to artificial organs thus it tries
to create organs or components that closely resemble their
natural counterparts. Tissue engineering has been transformed
by 3D printing and bioprinting technologies, which enable the
fabrication of complex structures with cell-based components.
❖ Sensing and Control Systems: Natural movement and
feedback are enabled through the integration of sensor and
control systems in prosthetics. Microelectronics and neural
interface advancements have enabled prosthetic devices to be
connected directly to the nervous system, allowing users to
operate their mechanical limbs with astonishing accuracy.

Figure 9: Source : The creation of an artificial organ: Shanmugam, D. K.,


Anitha, S., Souresh, V., Madhavan, Y., Sampath, S., Venugopal, D. C., &
Saravanan, M. (2023). Current advancements in the development of bionic
organs using regenerative medicine and 3D tissue engineering. Materials
Technology, 38(1). [Link]
67

Advantages

Advances in prostheses and artificial limbs have enabled people with


various illnesses, accidents, or disabilities to experience a major
improvement in their quality of life. These developments are bridging
the biology-technology divide in several ways, providing many
benefits:

● Improved accessibility and sustainability

As per Wang, 2019 and Sohn et al., 2020, Advances made in


Technology and Biotechnology have led to the development of
advanced limbs, enabling them to function like natural organs along
with compatible materials that have reduced the risk of tissue rejection.
As a result, the prosthesis blends more naturally with the body reducing
various discomforts and helping the users perform a greater task.

● Individualized ideas

Advances in 3D printing and scanning technology are now creating


prosthetics and artificial limbs to fit each patient's specific anatomy.
These customizations improve the fit and functionality of these
gadgets. (Zhu et al., 2021)

● Improved lifetime along with Decreased health risk,


disability, and pain

Prostheses are stronger and last longer, requiring fewer replacements or


repairs. Side by side improved materials and technology are reducing
the risk of prostheses and prosthesis-related complications, infections,
and other health problems as well as pain and weakness through a
variety of treatments (Surgeons., 2002). A prosthetic limb, for
example, helps an amputee walk pain-free and lead a more active life.
(Klak et al., 2020)

● Economic benefits

Such scientific developments have many positive effects on the


economy. First and foremost, manufacturing and marketing prostheses
have led to a thriving industry, furthering study, innovation, and job
prospects. This expansion has helped industry research firms, medical
68

device producers, and biotechnology firms. The improved quality of


life for those who can now afford state-of-the-art prostheses also has a
significant financial impact. (Horrocks, 2022)

● Research possibilities

Research and innovation in areas such as tissue engineering,


regenerative medicine, and neuroprosthetics have been stimulated by
the development of artificial limbs and prosthetic limbs. Beyond
prosthetics, a wide range of medical fields could benefit from these
developments in several ways. (Future Visions: The Future Possibilities
of Artificial Organs, 2023)

● Scientific advancement

A significant step in the development of prosthetics as well as artificial


organs is bridging the biology-technology divide. Through these
developments, we leverage our knowledge of biology, including tissue
engineering, biomaterials, and medical imaging, to create cutting-edge
prostheses and prosthetic devices. For example, regenerative medicine
has made it possible to create bioengineered organs such as artificial
hearts and kidneys, while 3D printing and nanotechnology have made it
possible to create personalized and highly functional artificial organs.
(Altınörs, 2021)

Complications

Learn more about some of the limitations and pitfalls involved in the
development of artificial limbs and prosthetics:

● Cost issues

Access to these advanced life-changing technologies is limited because


of the high costs connected with the design, manufacture, and
maintenance of sophisticated prostheses and prosthetics. Finding
solutions to reduce production costs keeping in mind patient
affordability is now an important task. (Malchesky, 2001)

● Compatibility And Biocompatibility issues


69

Despite great progress, total biocompatibility is still difficult to achieve.


Moreover, when some manufacturers make individual parts for
prosthetic limbs or prosthetic systems, various interoperability issues
can arise. Various adjustments are crucial depending on the comfort of
the users and the functionality of the device. (Masci, 2022)

● Limitations of sensory

Replicating the complex sensory functions of real limbs and organs in


artificial devices has not yet been very successful. These devices need
further advancements to give people more realistic and better results.
(Wan et al., 2019)

● Complicated surgical operations

A variety of complex and invasive surgeries are often required when


implanting a prosthesis or device. Advances in robotic surgery and
minimally invasive surgical procedures can reduce risks and speed
recovery. (Sabbih & Kulabhusan, 2021)

● Fixed life expectancy

Various prostheses and prostheses have a limited lifespan and may


require replacement or maintenance from time to time. Practicing
predictive maintenance and extending the life of these devices can
reduce the hassle and cost of additional. (De Jongh et al., 2022)

● Limited self-reliance

A few prostheses require external regulator structures or current health


professional supervision, which limits the user's degree of autonomy.
The development of autonomous and self-regulating technologies can
enable users to become more successful and independent. (De Jongh et
al., 2022)
70

● Research deficits

Although prosthetics and prosthetics research has advanced


significantly, these limitations in means of spending on ongoing
research and development must be addressed. To foster innovation, it
involves multidisciplinary collaboration between biologists, engineers,
material scientists, and doctors. (Aman et al., 2019)

Researchers, engineers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and


patient advocates must work together to overcome such barriers. It is
expected that continued developments in technology, materials science,
and medical research will remove many of these restrictions, making
prostheses and prostheses more widely available, efficient, and
adaptable to individuals' lifestyles.

Analysis & Controversies

According to Bunnik et al. (2022), While advancements in artificial


organs and prosthetics hold immense potential, they are not without
their share of analysis, controversies, and ethical considerations. Here,
we delve into some of the key points of contention and discussions
surrounding this field:

❖ Ethical Concerns:
➢ Resource Allocation: The cost of developing and
implanting artificial organs and prosthetics can be
substantial. Ethical conundrums arise regarding
resource allocation, because these technologies may
not be accessible to all individuals, potentially
increasing various healthcare disparities.
➢ Improvement vs. Medication: Enhancement of
prosthetics and bionics become more advanced,
questions emerge with a doubt about whether these
technologies should primarily serve as medical
treatments or if they can be utilized for human
enhancement, raising ethical debates about the
definition of "normal" Homo sapiens capabilities.
❖ Safety and Long-Term Risks: (Bazaka & Jacob, 2012)
➢ Lifetime: Some prostheses have a limited lifespan
which requires a replacement of the patient's life.
71

This increases concerns about the frequency of


invasive tumors and their associated dangers.
➢ Nerve Connections: Integration of artificial limbs and
prosthetics with neural interfaces may raise privacy
concerns. Access to individuals' neural data can be
exploited which leads to potential breaches of privacy
and misuse of personal details.
❖ Autonomy and Consent:
➢ Approval Information: Informed consent is often
required from patients for the placement of advanced
technologies such as prostheses. Confirming that
patients completely understand the threats,
advantages, and associations of these technologies
can be challenging, especially when trading with
unsafe citizens.
❖ Cultural and Societal Impact:
➢ Self Image and Identification: The use of artificial
limbs and prosthetics can affect a person's body
image and sense of identification. Social viewpoints
towards people with noticeable prosthetic
augmentation may change, potentially leading to
issues of taking and inequity.
➢ Community-based Principles: As these technologies
become more ordinary, community-based norms
regarding disorder, individual machine integration,
and human ability may develop, leading to debates
about "normal" means.
❖ Technological Limitations:
➢ Control Biological Difficulty: Artificial organs and
artificial materials must replicate the difficulty of
essential biological systems. Achieving this level of
experience is challenging, and technology limitations
can lead to substandard results or complications.
❖ Regulatory Frameworks:
➢ Confirm Security: Regulatory agencies face the
challenge of evolving and tooling strong mistakes
and security standards for prosthetic limbs and
prosthetics to ensure their security and benefit.
❖ Psychological and Societal Impact:
➢ Depending on Technology: There is a threat that
persons who rely on prosthesis or artificial devices
72

may become dependent on technology, potentially


leading to emotional challenges related to
identification and self-sufficiency.
➢ Unexpected Outcomes: The combination of advanced
technology into the human body can lead to
unintended consequences, such as changes in human
actions, social direction, and the environment. These
findings may raise concerns and debates.

To summarize, improvements in prostheses and prostheses provide


great benefits but sometimes lead to heavy debates and disagreements
such as safety issues, privacy issues, and access and equity. As
technology develops, it is essential to consciously address these issues
to confirm that new technologies are developed and applied in ways
that benefit all of humanity.

Future Prospects

Artificial organs and prosthetics are a matter of great interest to many.


Currently, a great number of advancements can be seen in this sector.
Moreover, additional developments are being introduced and are on the
way. According to the article Future Visions: The Future Possibilities of
Artificial Organs (2023), Artificial stomachs, livers, pancreas, sensory
organs, etc., can all be artificially made and are mostly still in testing
phases. A certain number of limitations needs to be surpassed and that
is the main aim for these artificial organs. Certain objectives for the
future are:

● Improving human abilities so that the users can perform tasks


that are more than what natural organs and limbs can do.
● Ensuring the availability as well as affordability of these
prosthetics and artificial organs.
● Increased lifespan and functionality of these devices.
● Overcoming the limitations of organ transplantations like a
rejection of organs, the possibility of infections, and other
serious complications.

While these features are being integrated into artificial devices, more
technological advancements are also in progress. It can be observed
that the future of artificial organs and prosthetics is promising and is
committed to making the lives of individuals around the world easier.
73

Conclusion

To conclude, advances in artificial limbs and prosthetics review an


interesting intersection of biology and technology, where creativity and
sympathy collide to improve life. These discoveries have overcome
considerable medical difficulties, providing treatment for organ failure
and organ damage that were previously thought to be complex. Despite
improvements in pharmacological and therapeutic therapies, organ
failure has really been a primary cause of death worldwide. Although
orthotopic organ transplantation has saved lives, it has been inhibited
by difficulties such as cost, immunological refusal, donor shortages,
and ethical issues. However, with significant improvements in science,
technology, and operating capabilities, creating bioprostheses has
emerged as an fascinating and encouraging avenue. Prosthetics, which
are man-made devices incorporated into the human body and attached
to living tissues, have the ability to replace defective natural organs,
allowing patients to restart normal [Link] guarantee that these
discoveries benefit all of mankind in this quickly growing sector, it is
crucial to address the ethical, social, and technological concerns
deliberately, with the participation of stakeholders from varied
backgrounds. The future of artificial organs and prostheses promises an
enticing path toward better healthcare and human potential.
74

References:

1. About Össur. (n.d.). Össur.


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Authors’ Biography:
Meer Zeshanul Wazid, an ambitious
undergraduate biotechnology student,
currently studying at BRAC University. His
ultimate goal is to contribute to revolutionary
biotech research and discoveries by
combining his academic knowledge,
laboratory skills, and love of creativity.
Moreover, he has the potential and experience
to coordinate events, Trustworthy,
Enthusiastic, Punctual, Self-motivated,
Critical Thinking, Organizational Behavior,
Adaptable, Compassionate to teamwork, time
management, enthusiasm for biotechnology, and proactive and growing
leadership qualities as well

Jubaida Niyasa Chowdhury, an ardent and


creative undergraduate biotechnology student
at Brac University. With an innate interest in
innovation and an insatiable curiosity in the
field of biotechnology, she wants to explore
intersections between biotechnology and
creativity along with technology. She is
dedicated to learning more and discovering
the uncharted territories of biotechnology.
She envisions a time in the future when
innovation and science coexist harmoniously,
pushing the limits of biotechnology.

Rejwana Habib Ome, an enthusiastic


undergraduate, is working towards a degree
in biotechnology. She has actively
participated in a variety of research
initiatives throughout her academic career
since she has a great interest in scientific
discovery. Her interest in biotechnology first
arose in high school and has only been
greater since then.

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