One of the most interesting and perhaps least discussed issues with some types of implantable medical devices is the concern about how these devices will continue to be safe and secure for patients as they become more technologically advanced.
While this isn’t a concern for devices that don’t have computer technology as part of their design, some of the new devices on the market that is providing treatment options for patients with very significant disabilities and diseases do have this ability to share information with the world outside the patient’s body.
The use of technology in implantable medical devices is one of the most rapidly growing fields in medical device manufacturing. In 2015 there were over 200 billion dollars spend worldwide, with this number continuing to grow each year.
Technology is Not Always Perfect
Despite the advance testing and validation required for implantable medical devices, there are still issues with recalls on the market. Often specific aspects of the design, materials or the electronics fail, which create a risk for patients that may be life-threatening.
Recalls on these devices have occurred if a defect is found after the testing procedure. With technology, it is easier to track patients and to notify their current physician or even directly contact the patient with information on the concerns.
Hacking Concerns
While not a commonly addressed issue, as implantable and wearable medical devices have the ability to send and receive information do pose a risk for a potential hacking situation.
This may not be a direct hack into the equipment, but a hack into the medical provider’s computer or system that would then have the potential to provide information about patients to the hackers based on the device files. Hospitals and device designers can focus in on security systems that can prevent these types of hacks should they be attempted in the future.
