Abstract
Developments in medical device design result in advances in wearable technologies, minimally invasive surgical techniques, and patient-specific approaches to medicine. In this review, we analyze the trajectory of biomedical and engineering approaches to soft robotics for healthcare applications. We review current literature across spatial scales and biocompatibility, focusing on engineering done at the biotic-abiotic interface. From traditional techniques for robot design to advances in tunable material chemistry, we look broadly at the field for opportunities to advance healthcare solutions in the future. We present an extracellular matrix-based robotic actuator and propose how biomaterials and proteins may influence the future of medical device design.
Highlights
Micromachines in the Future of Personalized medicine, tailored treatments for patient-specific physiology, genetic makeup, and health history (Figure 1a), have induced a shift towards preventative care methods [1]
We present a review of fabrication techniques and applications of soft robotic devices to address these biomedical challenges
This review begins by examining the evolution of the field of soft robotic systems and methods of manufacturing, highlights applications of soft robotics as both implantable devices, tools for minimally invasive surgery, and wearable technologies
Summary
Micromachines in the Future of Personalized medicine, tailored treatments for patient-specific physiology, genetic makeup, and health history (Figure 1a), have induced a shift towards preventative care methods [1]. While “3D printed medical devices” is a comparatively new area of research, when the fields are compared against the benchmark (*), both fields experienced exponential growth in the first five years post benchmark This analysis suggests that beyond personalized therapeutic treatments, new manufacturing methods are critical for the generation of personalized medicine. The progression of medical diagnostics and treatment methods toward personalized medicine and point-of-care diagnostics shows promise in increasing affordability, safety, and clinical efficacy of medical care [2,3]. With these developments, arises the need for new tools and devices to provide specialized care.
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