Imagine Magazine - Johns Hopkins - September/October 2013 - (Page 18)

Innovations in Medicine by Amy Entwisle Today, rapidly advancing technologies and innovative thinking are producing an array of tools and techniques that are not only saving lives, but altering the practice of medicine. Here, we take a look at some of the most promising developments. Bionic Prostheses BiOM 18 imagine By 2050, it is estimated that there will be nearly four million amputees in the U.S., largely due to military casualties and complications from the growing problem of diabetes. Traditionally, prosthetic limbs were rigid devices that required wearers to use 10 to 30 percent more energy than nonamputees just to get around. Enter the bionic leg. Researchers across the country are producing increasingly sophisticated, lightweight prosthetic legs, some of which rival the eﬃciency of the real thing. In one recent example, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs designed a four-pound engineering wonder that employs sensors to detect user actions, microprocessors to analyze the information, a battery-powered motor to provide muscle-like power, and a carbon-filter spring to emulate the body’s natural motion. Those wearing the prosthesis were able to walk at the same speed, using the same energy, as those with biological limbs. Recipients, who can adjust the settings with a smartphone to ensure a comfortable gait, can climb stairs, walk backwards, and compete in sports. Sept/Oct 2013

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Imagine Magazine - Johns Hopkins - September/October 2013

Imagine Magazine - Johns Hopkins - September/October 2013
Contents
Bridging the Gap
The War on Cancer
Teen Researchers on the Forefront of Medicine
Ancient Medicine Meets Modern Technology
Innovations in Medicine
Wherever Help Is Needed
Summer in the Lab
Our Second Genome
The Defi nition of Determination

Imagine Magazine - Johns Hopkins - September/October 2013