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A process that creates a solid, three-dimensional object by building it layer by layer from a digital design using a chosen material, such as plastic, metal, or biological substances. This technology allows for the precise construction of complex shapes, often used in biomedical engineering to produce medical implants, prosthetics, or tissue scaffolds. The computer model guides the printer to deposit material in thin layers, which solidify to form the final object.

A regulatory pathway used by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve medical devices, typically those classified as Class II (moderate risk). This process requires demonstrating that the new device is substantially equivalent to an already approved device in terms of safety and effectiveness. Manufacturers submit evidence showing similarities in design, function, and clinical use to gain clearance for marketing the device.

The region of the human body located between the chest and the pelvis, enclosed by the diaphragm at the top and the pelvic bones at the bottom. This area contains vital organs such as the stomach, intestines, liver, and kidneys, and is protected by muscles and connective tissues. It plays a key role in digestion, waste elimination, and other bodily functions.

A rapid change in the electrical charge across the membrane of a muscle cell or nerve cell, enabling the transmission of signals within the body. This process occurs when the cell’s electrical potential shifts due to the movement of ions, such as sodium and potassium, across the membrane. It is essential for muscle contraction, nerve communication, and coordinating bodily functions like movement and sensation.

The abnormal joining of tissues or organs, often resulting from injury, surgery, or inflammation. These connections form when scar tissue or fibrous bands develop between surfaces that are normally separate, potentially causing pain or restricted movement. In biomedical contexts, adhesions are studied to prevent complications in surgical recovery or to design materials that minimize unwanted tissue bonding.

In thermodynamics, a process where energy is transferred solely through mechanical work, without any heat exchange between a system and its surroundings. For example, when a gas is compressed or expanded rapidly, no heat is gained or lost, but the temperature may change due to the work done. This concept is relevant in biomedical engineering for designing systems like ventilators or thermal regulation devices.

A laboratory technique used to separate different substances in a mixture based on their chemical interactions with a solid surface. It relies on the varying strengths of hydrophobic (water-repelling) and polar (water-attracting) attractions between the substances and a stationary material, such as a gel or resin. As the mixture passes through a column, substances bind differently, allowing them to be collected separately. This method is widely used in biomedical engineering to purify proteins, drugs, or other biological molecules.

The process by which cells in the body generate energy by breaking down nutrients, such as glucose, in the presence of oxygen. This occurs in the mitochondria, producing energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), along with carbon dioxide and water as byproducts. It is highly efficient and essential for sustaining activities like muscle movement and organ function in oxygen-rich environments, such as during exercise or normal breathing.

The natural tendency of two substances, molecules, or particles to attract or bind to each other due to their chemical or physical properties. This attraction can be specific, like an enzyme binding to a particular molecule, or general, like water sticking to a surface. In biomedical contexts, affinity is critical in drug design, where medicines are developed to target specific cells or proteins with high binding strength.

A high-resolution imaging technique that uses a tiny probe to scan the surface of a material, measuring its height, texture, and forces at the atomic or molecular level. The probe moves across the surface, detecting interactions to create detailed maps of microscopic or macroscopic features. This method is valuable in biomedical engineering for studying the structure of cells, proteins, or biomaterials, aiding in the design of medical devices or tissue scaffolds.

The process where large particles, such as cells or microbes with antigens on their surfaces, clump together due to the binding action of antibodies. This clumping prevents the particles from functioning normally, often as part of the immune system’s defense against infections. In biomedical applications, agglutination is used in blood typing or diagnostic tests to detect specific antigens or pathogens.

A surgical procedure involving the transfer of tissue, such as skin, bone, or an organ, from one person’s body to another person’s body. Unlike transplants from the same individual, allografts come from a donor, often requiring compatibility testing to prevent rejection by the recipient’s immune system. This technique is commonly used in reconstructive surgeries or organ transplants to restore function or replace damaged tissue.

Small, balloon-like structures in the lungs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide occurs during breathing. Oxygen from inhaled air passes through the thin walls of the alveoli into the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide from the blood is released into the alveoli to be exhaled. These structures are critical for maintaining proper oxygen levels in the body and removing waste gases.

A fabrication process, also known as three-dimensional printing, that builds a solid object by depositing material layer by layer based on a digital model. Materials like plastics, metals, or biological compounds are used to create complex shapes for medical devices, implants, or prosthetics. This technology allows precise control over the object’s structure, making it valuable for personalized medicine and rapid prototyping in biomedical engineering.

A metallic mixture formed by combining silver and tin with mercury, resulting in a durable material often used in dental fillings. The mercury binds the metals into a stable alloy that hardens quickly and resists corrosion in the mouth. In biomedical engineering, amalgams are studied for their biocompatibility and long-term performance in dental restorations.

A material structure that lacks a regular, organized arrangement of atoms or molecules, unlike crystalline materials with repeating patterns. Amorphous materials, such as certain plastics or glasses, often have unique properties like flexibility or transparency, making them useful in biomedical applications like drug delivery systems or flexible implants.

The process by which cells produce energy from nutrients, such as glucose, without using oxygen. This less efficient method occurs in environments with low oxygen, like deep muscle tissue during intense exercise, producing energy in the form of ATP and byproducts like lactic acid. It is critical for short-term energy needs but can lead to muscle fatigue if prolonged.

The scientific study of the physical structure and organization of living organisms, including their organs, tissues, and systems. It involves examining how components like bones, muscles, and nerves are arranged and function together. Anatomy is foundational in biomedical engineering for designing devices or treatments that align with the body’s natural structure.

An abnormal bulge or widening in the wall of an artery caused by a weakened area that stretches under blood pressure. This condition can occur in arteries like those in the brain or aorta and poses a risk of rupture, leading to severe bleeding. Biomedical engineers develop imaging techniques and devices, such as stents, to detect and treat aneurysms.

A medical imaging procedure that uses X-rays to visualize blood flow within blood vessels. A contrast dye is injected to highlight arteries or veins, allowing doctors to identify blockages, narrowing, or abnormalities. This technique is crucial for diagnosing conditions like heart disease or planning surgeries to restore proper blood circulation.

A minimally invasive procedure to treat blockages in arteries, often in the heart or legs. A catheter with a small balloon is inserted, typically through the femoral artery, and guided to the blocked area. The balloon is inflated to widen the artery, and a stent (a mesh tube) is placed to keep the artery open, ensuring unrestricted blood flow and reducing the risk of heart attack or stroke.

A property of materials where mechanical characteristics, such as strength or stiffness, vary depending on the direction of applied force. For example, a material may resist compression better than tension. In biomedical engineering, anisotropic properties are studied in tissues like muscles or bones to design implants or prosthetics that mimic natural behavior.

A heat treatment process that alters a material’s properties by heating it to a high temperature and holding it there for an extended period, followed by controlled cooling. This increases the material’s ductility (ability to bend) and toughness (resistance to breaking), making it easier to shape or more durable. Annealing is used in biomedical engineering to improve the performance of metal or polymer implants.

An electrode in an electrical device where electric current enters, facilitating processes like chemical reactions or energy transfer. In biomedical applications, anodes are used in devices like pacemakers or electrotherapy systems, where controlled current flow supports treatment or monitoring functions.

A term describing the front side of the body or a body part, such as the chest or the face, as opposed to the back (posterior). In medical and engineering contexts, anterior positioning is considered when designing devices or planning surgeries to ensure compatibility with the body’s orientation.

A strong band of tissue in the knee that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia), running diagonally to prevent the tibia from sliding forward. It provides stability during movements like running or jumping. ACL injuries are common in sports, and biomedical engineers develop surgical techniques or braces to repair or support this ligament.

The measurement of the human body’s physical characteristics, such as height, weight, limb lengths, centers of mass, or moments of inertia. These data are used in biomedical engineering to design ergonomic medical devices, prosthetics, or workspaces that fit the body’s dimensions and movements, improving comfort and functionality.

A substance or agent that kills microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, or prevents their growth. Antimicrobials are used in medical devices, coatings, or drugs to reduce infections, ensuring safer surgeries or treatments, especially in environments prone to microbial contamination.

The mass of a material divided by its total volume, including any empty spaces, pores, or voids within it. This measure is important in biomedical engineering for assessing the density of materials like bone scaffolds or porous implants, which need to balance strength and lightweight properties for integration with the body.

A condition, also known as atrial fibrillation, where the heart beats irregularly or at an abnormal pace, disrupting normal blood flow. This can cause symptoms like dizziness or fatigue and increase the risk of stroke. Biomedical engineers design devices like pacemakers or defibrillators to monitor and correct arrhythmias, restoring regular heart rhythms.

A blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to various parts of the body, such as muscles, organs, and tissues. Arteries have thick, elastic walls to withstand high pressure from the heart’s pumping. They are studied in biomedical engineering to develop treatments for conditions like blockages or aneurysms.

A term describing objects or materials created by humans rather than occurring naturally. In biomedical engineering, artificial components like heart valves, joints, or organs are designed to mimic natural functions, improving quality of life for patients with damaged or missing body parts.

A laboratory test to analyze the composition, activity, or properties of a biological sample, such as cells, tissues, or materials. Assays are used to measure the presence of specific substances, like proteins or drugs, or to assess how cells respond to treatments, aiding in drug development or diagnostics.

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standards

A set of internationally recognized guidelines developed by the ASTM for testing the mechanical, chemical, or physical properties of materials. These standards ensure consistency and safety in evaluating materials used in biomedical devices, such as implants or surgical tools, by defining procedures for strength, durability, or biocompatibility tests.

A chronic disease where fatty deposits, called plaque, build up on the inner walls of arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. This can lead to heart attacks or strokes if untreated. Biomedical engineers develop imaging tools, stents, or drug-eluting devices to diagnose and manage atherosclerosis, improving blood vessel health.

The two upper chambers of the heart that receive blood from the body and lungs before pumping it into the lower chambers (ventricles). The right atrium collects deoxygenated blood from the body, while the left atrium gathers oxygenated blood from the lungs. These chambers play a vital role in ensuring blood flows properly through the heart.

A heart condition characterized by irregular and often rapid heartbeats, which can disrupt normal blood flow. This abnormality, also called an arrhythmia, may lead to serious health issues such as blood clots, stroke, or heart failure if untreated. It occurs when the heart’s electrical signals become disorganized, causing the atria to quiver instead of contracting effectively.

Related to the sense of hearing or the organs involved in detecting sound. This term describes processes, structures, or devices, such as the ear or hearing aids, that enable the perception of sound waves in the environment.

A procedure where tissue is taken from one part of a person’s body and transplanted to another part of the same person’s body. For example, skin from a patient’s thigh may be used to repair a burn on their arm. This method reduces the risk of rejection since the tissue comes from the patient’s own body.

A specialized group of cells in the heart that conducts electrical impulses from the sinoatrial (SA) node to the Purkinje fibers. Located between the atria and ventricles, it delays the electrical signal slightly to ensure the atria contract before the ventricles, coordinating the heart’s pumping action.

Pertaining to a central line or axis, often used to describe structures or forces aligned with the main axis of an object or body. In biomedical contexts, it may refer to the longitudinal axis of the body or the direction of forces in medical imaging or device design.

A term used to describe a medical condition, tumor, or biopsy result that is not harmful or life-threatening. Unlike cancerous (malignant) growths, benign conditions do not spread to other parts of the body and are generally treatable, posing minimal risk to health.

Relating to two axes, typically used to describe forces or stresses acting on an object along two perpendicular directions. In biomedical engineering, this term may apply to analyzing how tissues or implants respond to forces in two dimensions, such as in joint movement or material testing.

A property of materials or substances that interact positively with living tissues, cells, or organisms to promote healing or beneficial biological responses without causing harm. In biomaterials, bioactive substances may encourage tissue growth or integration with implants, such as bone regeneration around a dental implant. These materials can also have specific effects on living systems, like stimulating cell growth or fighting infections.

A characteristic of a material, device, or component that does not provoke an adverse reaction when introduced into the body. Biocompatible materials, such as those used in pacemakers or artificial joints, are designed to function safely alongside living tissues without causing rejection, inflammation, or toxicity.

A property of materials that can naturally break down and dissolve when exposed to specific conditions, such as moisture, heat, or biological activity in the body. These materials, like certain sutures or drug-delivery systems, safely decompose over time, eliminating the need for surgical removal and reducing long-term complications.

The process of creating medical devices or solutions by applying principles of engineering, biology, and design. It involves identifying clinical needs, developing innovative technologies, and testing them to ensure safety and effectiveness, such as designing a new prosthetic limb or diagnostic tool.

The range and variety of living organisms, species, and ecosystems in a given environment. In biomedical contexts, biodiversity is important for studying natural compounds for drug development or understanding how environmental changes impact human health.

A property of biomaterials that do not cause a negative reaction when placed in the body and remain neutral, neither promoting nor inhibiting biological activity. For example, bioinert materials like certain ceramics used in dental implants do not trigger immune responses or tissue growth, ensuring stability.

A scientific field that combines biology, computer science, mathematics, and statistics to analyze and interpret biological data, such as DNA sequences or protein structures. It is used in biomedical engineering to develop tools for diagnosing diseases, designing drugs, or understanding genetic variations.

A substance, natural or synthetic, designed to interact with biological systems for medical purposes. Biomaterials, such as metals, polymers, or ceramics, are used in implants, prosthetics, or tissue engineering to replace or support damaged tissues while being safe for the body.

The study of mechanical principles applied to living organisms, such as how bones, muscles, and tissues respond to forces. This field helps design medical devices like orthopedic implants or understand movement in rehabilitation therapies.

The practice of designing systems, materials, or devices by imitating structures and processes found in nature. For example, creating artificial heart valves inspired by natural valves or developing adhesives based on gecko feet adhesion.

Naturally occurring polymers in living organisms made up of repeating molecular units (monomers). For instance, actin, a protein in muscles, is a biopolymer formed from G-actin monomers. Biopolymers like collagen or DNA are critical in biomedical applications for tissue engineering or drug delivery.

The removal and examination of a small sample of tissue from the body to diagnose diseases, such as cancer or infections. This procedure helps doctors determine the presence and nature of abnormalities by analyzing the tissue under a microscope.

A characteristic of materials that can dissolve and be safely absorbed by the body over time. Used in medical applications like stents or bone screws, bioresorbable materials eliminate the need for removal surgery and support healing as they degrade.

Devices that detect biological molecules, such as glucose or proteins, and convert their presence into measurable electrical signals. Used in medical diagnostics, like blood sugar monitors, biosensors provide real-time data for monitoring health conditions.

A manufacturing technique where melted plastic is inflated with air inside a mold to form a hollow object, such as bottles or medical containers. The process shapes the material into precise forms for use in healthcare products.

A break or crack in a bone caused by trauma, stress, or disease. Fractures range from minor cracks to complete breaks and require medical intervention, such as immobilization or surgery, to heal properly.

A cup-shaped structure in the kidney that surrounds the glomerulus, a network of capillaries. It filters waste and excess substances from the blood to form urine, playing a key role in the body’s waste elimination process.

A property of materials that break easily under stress without bending or deforming. Brittle materials, like certain ceramics, have minimal flexibility, making them unsuitable for applications requiring toughness, such as load-bearing implants.

The total volume occupied by a collection of particles, calculated by dividing their mass by their overall density. In biomedical engineering, this concept is used to analyze powders or granules in drug formulations or tissue scaffolds.

The buildup of calcium salts in body tissues, resulting in hardened structures. While normal in bones, abnormal calcification in soft tissues, like blood vessels, can cause health issues such as restricted blood flow or organ dysfunction.

Related to the heart and blood vessels, which together form the system responsible for circulating blood, oxygen, and nutrients throughout the body. This term is used in studying heart diseases or designing devices like stents.

A flexible, rubbery tissue found in areas like joints, ears, and the nose. It cushions bones, supports structures, and allows smooth movement, lacking blood vessels and relying on surrounding tissues for nutrients.

A manufacturing process where a liquid material, such as metal or plastic, is poured into a mold and allowed to harden into a specific shape. In biomedical engineering, casting is used to create implants or prosthetic components.

A thin, flexible tube inserted into the body to deliver fluids, remove waste, or perform medical procedures. For example, catheters are used in heart surgeries or to drain urine, improving patient care and treatment outcomes.

A negatively charged electrode in an electrical device where electrons enter, enabling current flow. In biomedical applications, cathodes are used in devices like pacemakers or electrotherapy systems.

A United States federal agency focused on protecting public health by promoting disease prevention, conducting research, and preparing for health emergencies. It provides guidelines for medical practices and tracks disease outbreaks.

Pertaining to the neck region of the spine, consisting of seven vertebrae, or in females, the lower part of the uterus (cervix). This term is used in contexts like spinal injuries or cervical cancer screenings.

The process of identifying and describing the properties or composition of a material, element, or object. In biomedical engineering, characterization techniques analyze biomaterials or tissues to ensure they meet medical standards.

The measurement of the outer boundary or perimeter of a circular object or structure. In medical contexts, it may describe the circumference of a blood vessel or the force applied around a cylindrical implant.

Moderately complex, non-invasive medical devices, like infusion pumps or wheelchairs, that pose a higher risk than Class I devices. They must be proven safe and effective through testing and regulatory review to avoid harm.

High-risk medical devices, such as pacemakers or artificial heart valves, that are implanted or sustain life. These devices lack a comparable existing device (predicate) and require extensive testing for safety and efficacy.

A protein that forms strong, flexible connective tissues in the body, found in skin, bones, muscles, and tendons. It provides structural support and is widely used in biomedical applications like tissue engineering or wound dressings.

A medical product that integrates two or more regulated components, such as a drug, device, or biologic, combined physically or chemically into a single entity. Examples include drug-eluting stents or pre-filled syringes, designed for enhanced treatment.

A manufacturing process where a material is placed in a mold, heated, and pressed to form a precise shape. Used in biomedical engineering to produce components like orthopedic implants or dental restorations.

The ability of a material or structure to resist forces that attempt to compress or reduce its size. In biomedical applications, this property is critical for designing implants or prosthetics that withstand bodily pressures.

A brain injury caused by a sudden blow or jolt to the head, leading to temporary disruption of normal brain function. This can result in symptoms like confusion, headache, or memory loss, as the brain is shaken inside the skull. It is often associated with sports injuries or accidents and requires careful monitoring to ensure recovery.

A bruise caused by a direct impact that damages small blood vessels (capillaries) under the skin, leading to blood leakage into surrounding tissues. This results in discoloration, swelling, or pain. In biomedical contexts, contusions can occur in various body parts, including the brain, and are studied to assess injury severity.

The clear, protective outer layer at the front of the eye that covers the iris and pupil. It acts like a window, allowing light to enter and helping to focus it onto the retina for clear vision. The cornea is critical for eye health and is often involved in surgical procedures like transplants or laser corrections.

The gradual deterioration of metals due to chemical reactions with their environment, such as exposure to water, oxygen, or acids. In biomedical engineering, corrosion is a concern for metal implants, as it can weaken devices and release harmful particles into the body, necessitating the use of corrosion-resistant materials.

The dense, hard outer layer of bone found in long bones, such as those in the arms or legs, also known as compact bone. It provides strength and support to the skeletal structure, protecting softer inner bone tissue and resisting bending or breaking during movement.

A brain bruise (contusion) that occurs on the opposite side of the head from where an external force is applied. This happens when the brain shifts inside the skull upon impact, striking the inner skull surface. It is often seen in traumatic brain injuries and requires medical evaluation.

A type of chemical bond where two atoms share electrons to form a stable connection. This bonding is common in biological molecules and materials used in biomedical devices, contributing to their strength and stability, such as in polymers or drug molecules.

Relating to the skull, which is the bony structure that encases and protects the brain. In biomedical engineering, cranial studies focus on skull biomechanics, surgical interventions, or designing protective gear like helmets to prevent brain injuries.

The slow, progressive deformation of a material under a constant load over time. In biomedical applications, creep is critical when designing implants or prosthetics, as materials must resist deformation to maintain functionality and patient safety over long periods.

The formation of chemical bonds between polymer chains, enhancing the strength, durability, and stability of materials. In biomedical engineering, cross-linking is used to create robust biomaterials, such as hydrogels for tissue engineering or coatings for medical devices, to withstand bodily stresses.

The study and application of materials at extremely low temperatures, often below -150°C. In biomedical engineering, cryogenic techniques are used for preserving biological samples, such as cells or tissues, and in cryosurgery to freeze and destroy abnormal tissues, like tumors.

A material structure with a highly organized, repeating pattern of atoms or molecules. In biomedical engineering, crystalline materials are used in implants or diagnostic tools due to their predictable properties, such as strength or electrical conductivity, ensuring reliability in medical applications.

A medical imaging technique that uses X-rays taken from multiple angles to create detailed, three-dimensional images of bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues. It helps diagnose conditions like fractures, tumors, or internal bleeding by providing clear visuals of internal body structures.

The internal framework of a cell, made up of protein fibers, that provides structural support and shape. It also facilitates cell movement, division, and transport of materials within the cell, playing a vital role in maintaining cellular functions in healthy and diseased states.

The degree to which a material or device is toxic to living cells, causing damage or cell death. In biomedical engineering, cytotoxicity testing is essential to ensure that implants, drugs, or medical devices are safe and do not harm surrounding tissues when introduced into the body.

An electronic device that delivers a controlled electric shock to the heart to restore normal rhythm in cases of irregular or life-threatening heartbeats, such as during cardiac arrest. It is widely used in emergency medicine to save lives by resynchronizing heart activity.

The process by which a material breaks down into smaller components, often due to chemical, physical, or biological processes. In biomedical engineering, degradation is studied to design implants that safely break down in the body or to ensure long-term stability of medical devices.

A comprehensive record documenting the entire design process of a medical device, including specifications, testing, and modifications. It ensures compliance with regulatory standards and provides a traceable history for quality control and safety assessments.