sciencecenter:

Tumor monitoring chip could give advance warning of growth

Scientists in Germany have developed a tiny chip that can be implanted near tumors. The implant works by measuring the blood oxygen levels near the tumor. Blood oxygen levels are monitored because a sudden drop indicates that the tumor is shifting to a more aggressive mode. The chip contains a sensor for blood oxygen content and pH, as well as a transmitter to alert patients and doctors of a change in tumor growth. The implant would be helpful in monitoring slow growing or inoperable tumors, such as liver or brain tumors.The chip has only been tested in cell cultures so far, and if some kinks can be worked out, animal tests are next.

(via fyeahmedicine)

mediclopedia:

Ectopia Cordis Herniating Heart.

When Nazeem was born his heart was on his chest, on the outside, pumping normally. The aorta went from his heart straight into his chest. Doctors wrapped his heart in Gore-Tex, plus a layer of his own skin, and gradually moved it inside his body.

Naseem was born with Ectopia Cordis - the heart develops outside the body and the baby does not have a sternum. The sternum protects us from impacts, hence he should never play impact sports. When he is a bit older, about six months, pieces of his ribs will be grafted across his chest to create a makeshift sternum. About 1 in every 180,000 to 126,000 babies are born with Ectopia Cordis.

Doctors knew about his condition about a month before he was born after an ultrasound scan. In September his mother had noticed he seemed to be having hiccups all the time (probably the beating heart).

Hernia’s are a pretty common thing. We usually see ventral hernias or inguinal hernias. But something like this, I would be terrified as a parent, but amazed as a physician.. 

(via fyeahmedicine)