An<unk>  is a human made<unk>  device or tissue that is implanted or integrated into a human — interfacing with living tissue — to replace a natural<unk> , to duplicate or augment a specific function or functions so the patient may return to a normal life as soon as possible. The replaced function does not have to be related to life support, but it often is. For example, replacement bones and joints, such as those found in hip replacements, could also be considered<unk> s. Implied by definition, is that the device must not be continuously tethered to a stationary power supply or other stationary resources such as filters or chemical processing units. (Periodic rapid recharging of batteries, refilling of chemicals, and/or cleaning/replacing of filters would exclude a device from being called an<unk> .) Thus, a dialysis machine, while a very successful and critically important life support device that almost completely replaces the duties of a kidney, is not an<unk> .
Artificial organ
Blood substitute
Transplantable organs and tissues
Bioartificial heart
Transfusion medicine
Liver support system
Artificial heart
Artificial skin