Revolutionary Plastic Devices That Change Lives
Plastics have revolutionized many industries and changed consumers’ way of life. But have you ever thought about how plastic also SAVES LIVES? From syringes that deliver medication into the body of sick patients to child-proof safety caps for medication bottles, plastics have become an invaluable component in the medical industry. Some of the parts are extremely intricate and require the skill and careful planning of specialized engineers to ensure every detail is carefully considered during the manufacturing plastic injection molded components.
An example is the precise components made from 11 complex molds that were designed and manufactured by Microdyne Plastics, Inc., a plastics manufacturer located in Colton, California. The pieces produced by Microdyne are vital parts found in medical technologies that allow patients to undergo operations while awake. Such capabilities have revolutionized treatment for diseases like Parkinson’s, all made possible by plastic
Plastic Parts in People
Of the various precise and complex types of plastic medical devices manufactured by companies like Microdyne, the components that replace body parts that have been damaged or lost are perhaps some of the most celebrated uses of plastic. Here are some common functions that plastics successfully replace to improve and often save the lives of people who receive them
- Plastic heart valves-of the innovations in plastic implants, one of the most intricate, and life-saving devices includes artificial valves which are carefully constructed to mimic actual heart valves. With minimal invasion during surgery, patients in need of heart valves are able to enjoy a better quality of life
- Knee and hip joints– these are commonly implanted in patients when joints are no longer functioning, whether due to disease, injury or common conditions such as arthritis. Patients who receive these implants are able to enjoy mobility, an ability that is often overlooked until it is lost.
- Plastic prosthesis– Imagine losing your hands, feet, arms or legs. Life would be very different as you know it. Plastics have given these parts-including functions that mimic their biological counterparts- to people suffering without them. People who have benefited from prosthesis include those who have been injured while serving in the armed forces.
- Artificial corneas– Silicone has become a popular plastic in the medical field, but did you know that in addition to cosmetic surgery it is now helping patients regain sight?
- Hearing aids– According to the FDA, over 35 million children and adults in the United States have some degree of hearing loss. Molded plastic is a component found in the devices that help deaf and people suffering from hearing loss to once again enjoy listening to music and engaging in conversation.
The next time you think about complaining about a product because its plastic make-up seemingly lowers its value, remember how many amazing functions the material serves for those whose lives depend upon it.
