Wearable and Implantable

Wearable Medical Devices:

Wearable medical devices are electronic devices that can be worn on the body, providing continuous monitoring or support for various health parameters. These devices are often non-invasive and can be easily integrated into daily life. Examples include:

1. Fitness Trackers: Devices like Fitbit and Apple Watch monitor physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns to promote overall health and fitness.
2. Smartwatches with Health Features: Modern smartwatches, such as the Apple Watch Series and Samsung Galaxy Watch, come equipped with health-related features like ECG monitoring, fall detection, and blood oxygen level measurement.
3. Wearable ECG Monitors: Devices like AliveCor's KardiaMobile allow users to take electrocardiograms (ECGs) anytime, providing valuable data for monitoring heart health.
4. Smart Clothing: Innovations in smart textiles enable the development of clothing embedded with sensors to monitor vital signs or track posture, like the Hexoskin smart shirt.

Implantable Medical Devices:

Implantable medical devices are placed inside the body for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. These devices are typically more invasive but can offer continuous monitoring or treatment. Examples include:

1. Cardiac Pacemakers: Implantable pacemakers help regulate the heartbeat, ensuring that the heart maintains a steady rhythm. Advanced versions may include additional features like defibrillation for certain heart conditions.
2. Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (ICDs): ICDs monitor heart rhythms and deliver shocks if a life-threatening arrhythmia is detected, helping to prevent sudden cardiac arrest.
3. Neurostimulators: Devices like deep brain stimulators or spinal cord stimulators can be implanted to manage chronic pain, Parkinson's disease, or certain neurological disorders.
4. Implantable Glucose Monitors: For diabetes management, devices like the Eversense implantable continuous glucose monitor can be placed under the skin to provide continuous blood sugar readings.

Latest Examples:

1. Wearable - Apple Watch Series 7 (2021): This smartwatch includes advanced health features such as blood oxygen measurement, ECG capabilities, and fall detection.
2. Implantable - Medtronic's Micra AV (2021): The Micra AV is a leadless pacemaker that provides pacing support for the heart without the need for traditional leads.

Both wearable and implantable medical devices continue to evolve with advancements in sensor technology, miniaturization, and connectivity, contributing to more personalized and efficient healthcare solutions.