A dynamic organ is an organ that changes shape as part of its normal function.
These organs present unique challenges in medical applications, particularly when considering interventions like applying patches or implants. This is due to several factors:
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Multiscale Architectures: Dynamic organs often have complex structures at different levels, from microscopic cellular arrangements to macroscopic tissue organization.
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Constant Volume Change: These organs continuously change in volume as they perform their functions (e.g., the lungs expanding and contracting, the stomach filling and emptying).
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Anisotropic Behavior: Their properties can differ depending on the direction in which force is applied. For example, the heart muscle contracts in a specific direction to pump blood efficiently.
Examples of Dynamic Organs:
- Heart: Changes shape and volume as it contracts and relaxes to pump blood.
- Lungs: Expand and contract during breathing.
- Stomach: Expands to accommodate food and contracts to aid digestion.
- Intestines: Contract rhythmically to move food along the digestive tract (peristalsis).
These constant changes in shape and volume must be considered when designing medical devices or procedures that interact with these organs to ensure proper functionality and avoid complications.
