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| Bioinformatic devices of the future |
What are bioinformatic devices?
Bioinformatics is an application of computer technology, which mainly
deals with management of biological information of patients. From
gathering, storing, analysing and integrating biological and genetic
information, this can then be applied to gene-based drug discovery and
development, which is a relatively new concept.
Why do we need them?
Today, we still use traditional medical treatments like antibiotics,
vaccines and physical surgeries to deal with illnesses and diseases.
However, with the medical field progressing at a faster-than-ever pace,
new devices and
treatment methods may help a great deal. While talking about the
idea and the need for bioinformatic-powered devices, Dr. Ragavendra
Baliga, Associate Director, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Ohio,
says, “Such devices will be both diagnostic and therapeutic giving the
patient more control over their health, and that too at their
fingertips.” No longer will patients have to line up at hospitals to
constantly check for diabetes, blood pressure or even their heart rate.
“These devices will allow patients to track important parameters such as
blood sugar, heart rate and blood pressure. In fact, companies like
Target are offering this facility to their employees,” he adds.
Doctors vs. devices
Dr. Baliga explained that there will be physicians who will be early
adopters of new technology, however, there are some who prefer
traditional methods. “Eventually, bioinformatic-powered devices are
likely to empower both the physician and the patient to do more for
better health as well as prevention and treatment of various ailments.
So, I don’t think that doctors would frown at such devices as such
technology will only help bridge some gaps in healthcare,” he explains.
Accuracy
While speaking about the accuracy of these devices, Dr. Baliga
explains, “Since these devices are still new, they will have
complications like infection, strokes and clotting of devices. However,
for every device like any medication, if the benefits outweigh the risk
then it is worth it. As for recycling, devices like the Pacemaker, which
have just been used in the USA, are recycled and reused.”
Affordability
Dr. Baliga states that such devices will be expensive. However, as they
become generic, they should be within the reach of the general public.
“While India is dealing with universal healthcare issues, once dealt
with, it would be easy for Indians to scale up to include modern
technologies,” he concludes.
BIOINFORMATIC-POWERED DEVICES
Fitbit Pocket Clip
Fitbit, a diagnostic device that tracks the number of steps taken,
distance travelled, calories burnt, activity intensity and sleep. Fitbit is clipped discreetly onto one’s clothing and worn 24/7, giving the user 100 per cent control over their health data.
Theranos
Theranos is a device that uses a finger stick to draw a micro-litre
sample of blood into a disposable cartridge, which is then loaded into
the device's ‘reader’ for analysis. It ensures accuracy by reducing or
eliminating human handling and delays associated with traditional blood
tests.
HeartMate 3
This is a mechanical circulatory support device that deals with
advanced heart failure. It is designed to lower adverse event rates,
while also enhancing the ease of surgical placement with its compact
size.
Wireless Pacemaker
The tiny, wireless pacemaker is placed in the chest or abdomen to
help control abnormal heart rhythms. This device uses low-energy
electrical pulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate.
