Research directions in biomedical engineering

The role of biomedical engineering and developments that affect it are outlined. Research areas that the authors believe will be of major importance at the beginning of the next century are discussed. They are: systems science and integrated biology; biomedical engineering in the cardiovascular system; biomaterials (metals, ceramics, and polymers); artificial organs; instrumentation and sensors; medical imaging (radiography, ultrasonic imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, and other techniques); biomedical computing; biomechanics; and rehabilitation. Some new areas for biomedical engineering research (molecular biology, minimally invasive surgery, home health care, and geriatric care) are examined.