The lithotripter, a machine that uses sound waves to break up kidney stones, is developed. World Health Organisation announces the eradication of smallpox. 1980 Artificial heart is transplanted into a patient. 1983 HIV virus is isolated. 1985 First human cancer gene, retinoblastoma, is isolated 1986 First heart, lung, and liver transplant.
Surgeons develop an operation for removing tissue from the cornea by laser.
First successful five-organ transplant. Entire human knee is transplanted. A laser is used to clear a blocked coronary artery. The abortion pill, RV486, is marketed Combined measles, mumps and rubella vaccine.