Early this year human trials of an artificial artery will begin. The hope is that this new creation could reduce amputations and heart attacks, potentially saving many lifes of patients with vascular diseases.
British scientists at London’s Royal Free Hospital have used nanotechnology to create the artificial artery made out of a polymer material. This material means the artery can imitate the natural pulsing of blood vessels.
Currently patients have to have the damaged vessel replaced by a vein from their own leg (often not suitable) or use a plastic graft. This new solution would be a big improvement on the current system.
We don’t know an exact date the trials will begin, they are being funded by a £500,000 grant, let’s hope they are a success.
Sources used: BBC UK. Image: Flickr
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January 4th, 2010 at 2:52 pm
It’s very fascinating to follow nanotechnology news as it’s leading towards many new inventions. Nice fact!