Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
and the mathematical description forms a compact, precise language that is easily com-
municated to others. In the example of the cardiac researcher, the engineer must at all
times consider the anatomical and physiological causes for the macro-model results—in
this case, why the heart is pumping the way it is. The activities of the engineer-scientist
inevitably involve instrument development because the exploitation of sophisticated
measurement techniques is often necessary to perform the biological side of the experi-
mental work. It is essential that engineer-scientists work in a biological environment,
particularly when their work may ultimately have a clinical application. It is not enough
to emphasize the niceties of mathematical analysis while losing the clinical relevance
in the process. This biomedical engineer is a true partner of the biological scientist and
has become an integral part of the research teams being formed in many institutes to
develop techniques and experiments that will unfold the mysteries of the human organ-
ism. Each of these roles envisioned for the biomedical engineer requires a different
attitude, as well as a specific degree of knowledge about the biological environment.
However, each engineer must be a skilled professional with a significant expertise in
engineering technology.
Therefore, in preparing new professionals to enter this field at these various levels, bio-
medical engineering educational programs are continually being challenged to develop
curricula that will provide an adequate exposure to and knowledge about the environment,
without sacrificing essential engineering skills. As we continue to move into a period charac-
terized by a rapidly growing aging population, rising social and economic expectations, and a
need for the development of more adequate techniques for the prevention, diagnosis, and
treatment of disease, development and employment of biomedical engineers have become
a necessity. This is true not only because they may provide an opportunity to increase our
knowledge of living systems but also because they constitute promising vehicles for expe-
diting the conversion of knowledge to effective action.
The ultimate role of the biomedical engineer, like that of the nurse and physician, is to
serve society. This is a profession, not just a skilled technical service. To use this new breed
effectively, health care practitioners and administrators should be aware of the needs for
these new professionals and the roles for which they are being trained. The great potential,
challenge, and promise in this endeavor offer not only significant technological benefits but
humanitarian benefits as well.
1.5 R ECENT ADVANCES IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEE RING
Biomedical engineering is a vast field with a multitude of concentrations and research
initiatives. While the technicians affiliated with clinical engineering and a number of other
concentrations focus mainly on preexisting technologies, researchers enjoy the exhilara-
tion of innovating the new. Biomedical engineering has grown exponentially since its
acceptance as a field less than a century ago, totheextentthattodaythereisnotabranch
of medicine untouched by the problem-solving skill set of the engineer. The objective of
this section is not to make the reader aware of every cutting-edge technology in develop-
ment today but rather to provide an introduction to a sample of these new adventures.
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