In a classic 1955 episode of “The Honeymooners,” husbands Ralph Kramden (Jackie Gleason) and Ed Norton (Art Carney) go on television to promote the Handy Housewife Helper as a tool for the “Da Chef of da Future.” After they bomb completely, Norton looks at the camera and says, “If my wife Trixie says, ‘I told you so ...’ ”
Well, risking, “I told you so,” from our wives Nancy and Lisa, we’re going to let you in on some remarkable medical “inventions” that we bet you’ll hear more about in 2013 ... and da future.
Cavity-proof teeth. There’s a chemical out there that kills bacteria responsible for cavities. Designed by Chilean dentists and dubbed Keep 32 (as in 32 teeth), it’s been undergoing tests for seven years and will soon begin human trials.
Scanning without radiation. Combination scanning technologies, such as the current omni-tomography — an MRI with a CT scan — greatly reduces radiation exposure. That’s a good start. In the future, we’re looking forward to further developments in 3D ultra-sound and MRI technologies.
Stem-cell treatments for personalized medicines. Using stem cells from your skin, docs will study your diseased cells in a lab and then tailor treatments that amplify your body’s specific strengths and overcome its weaknesses.
A 3D printer that produces artificial cartilage. Using an inkjet printer and an electro-spinning machine, researchers have created a prototype of a low-cost fabrication process that produces personalized, artificial human tissue needed for your aching joints.
Bring on da New Year!
The You Docs — Mehmet Oz, host of “The Dr. Oz Show” and Mike Roizen of Cleveland Clinic — are authors of “YOU: Losing Weight.” To submit questions, go to www.RealAge.com. A King Features syndicate.
