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Glossary Term
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Nanotechnology in Medical Devices

Definition

Nanotechnology is the science, engineering, and application of materials, devices, and systems with structures, properties, and performance characteristics at the nanoscale, typically ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers. At this scale, materials often exhibit unique physical, chemical, and biological properties that differ from their bulk counterparts. In the context of medical devices, nanotechnology is applied to create advanced diagnostic tools, drug delivery systems, implants, and therapeutic devices that leverage these unique properties to enhance performance, improve patient outcomes, and reduce side effects.

Relevance to the MedTech Industry

Nanotechnology enables the creation of innovative medical devices that are smaller, more precise, and more efficient than traditional alternatives. It enhances capabilities like targeted drug delivery, real-time diagnostics, and patient monitoring, leading to advancements in early disease detection, more effective treatments, and minimally invasive procedures.

Additional Information & Related Terms

Examples of Nano-Enabled Devices

  1. Nano-Diagnostics:

    • Quantum dots used in imaging to detect specific molecules, such as cancer antigens, with high sensitivity.

  2. Smart Drug-Delivery Systems:

    • Nanoparticles in microneedle patches for insulin delivery, providing controlled release and reducing injection pain.

  3. Nano-Coated Stents:

    • Stents with nano-coatings that release drugs to prevent restenosis (re-narrowing of blood vessels) and enhance vascular healing.

  4. Regenerative Medicine:

    • Nanostructured scaffolds used for tissue engineering to promote cell growth and tissue regeneration.

  5. Point-of-Care Testing Devices:

    • Handheld devices that use nanomaterials to rapidly detect diseases like malaria or HIV.

Related Terms

  • Nanoparticles: Particles with a size range of 1 to 100 nanometers, often used in drug delivery and diagnostics.

  • Nano-Biosensors: Sensors that utilize nanomaterials for detecting biological signals at ultra-low concentrations.

  • Biocompatibility: The ability of a material to interact safely with biological systems, an essential feature for nano-enabled devices.

  • Quantum Dots: Semiconductor nanoparticles that are used in medical imaging, diagnostics, and drug delivery systems.

  • Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio: A property of nanomaterials that enhances their reactivity and ability to interact with biological systems.

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