An artificial lung is a prosthetic device that is implanted into the body to replace biological lungs. It is different from a heart-lung machine in that it is internal and designed to take over the functions of the lungs for long periods of time rather than on a temporary basis. Recent developments include a device that uses small hollow fibers and the heart's own pumping power to oxygenate blood. It may be necessary for a person to receive artificial lungs if theirs become diseased or damaged beyond repair.
Famous quotes containing the words artificial and/or lung:
“Indifference creates an artificial peace.”
—Mason Cooley (b. 1927)
“Time is here and you’ll go his way.
Your lung is waiting in the death market.
Your face beside me will grow indifferent.
Darling, you will yield up your belly and be
cored like an apple.”
—Anne Sexton (1928–1974)