What are artificial organs?

Artificial organs are medical devices or implants that are designed to replace, assist, or supplement the function of a damaged, diseased, or missing organ. They are used to restore or improve a person's health and quality of life.

There are various types of artificial organs, each developed to address specific medical conditions or organ failures. Some examples of artificial organs include:

1. Artificial heart: A mechanical device that assists or replaces the function of a diseased or damaged heart. It can be implanted temporarily as a bridge to transplantation or serve as a long-term solution.

2. Artificial kidney (dialysis machine): A device used to remove waste products and excess fluids from the body when the kidneys are not functioning properly. Dialysis can be performed through hemodialysis, where blood is filtered through an external machine, or peritoneal dialysis, where the peritoneal cavity is used as a filter.

3. Artificial liver: A device that supports or substitutes the liver's functions, which include removing toxins, producing bile, and regulating blood clotting.

4. Artificial pancreas: An implantable device that automatically monitors and regulates blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes. It can deliver insulin when needed and suspend delivery when levels are low.

5. Cochlear implants: Electronic devices that provide a sense of sound to individuals with severe to profound hearing loss. They bypass the damaged parts of the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.

6. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD): A device that monitors heart rate and delivers electrical shocks to correct abnormal heart rhythms, such as ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation.

Artificial organs undergo extensive research, development, and testing before they are approved for clinical use. They are designed to be biocompatible, minimizing the risk of rejection or adverse reactions from the body. However, their use is often reserved for patients with advanced organ failure or when transplantation is not a feasible option.