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Kevin
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Future Tech Explained: A Visit to the Sickbay
| Published 12/12/03
Graphic By: Randy Sharp
The diagnostic beds, or "biobeds" for short, are the primary means of diagnosing and treating a patient in the time of "Star Trek." Small sensors are embedded in the biobed, which allow the doctor to diagnose a patient. According to Ex Astris Scientia, there is also a primary biobed located in the heart of sickbay which contains additional sensors as well as a containment field to quarantine a patient, as well as instruments for surgery. The technology for the biobeds exists now„the US Armed Forces commissioned a study of the feasibility of them after watching the original "Star Trek." Indeed, today's CAT scan can be seen as the forerunner for the diagnostic beds.
The hypo spray, another staple of "Star Trek" medical technology, also exists today. How does it work? First, the doctor fills it with the substance to be injected. Then it is evaporated and forced into the body by high pressure, allowing for injection without needles. So why aren't they used in today's hospitals? Unfortunately as appealing as the hypo sprays sound (no more painful shots!), there exists a problem with moving exact amounts of a substance into a body.
When exploring strange new worlds, obviously you're going to encounter bacteria and viruses of all kinds; thus, decontamination is an issue. Luckily, the ships of the Federation come equipped. In the 22nd century, there is the "decon" chamber, where a crewmember enters and rubs "decon" gel over their body. By the 23rd and 24th centuries, the transporters are equipped with bio-filters which screen out harmful viruses and germs.
Well, that's a wrap for this week and a wrap for this column for this is the final installment of Future Tech Explained. I hope you've enjoyed this little (pardon the expression) trek through the technological marvels of "Star Trek." It's been a blast. Live long and prosper!
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