Medical breakthroughs have the potential to completely change the way we treat illnesses and improve patient outcomes. Breakthroughs in medical science are the result of years of research, innovation and investment that culminate in life-changing treatments, devices, products and therapies.

The discovery of insulin revolutionized the treatment of diabetes, extending patient lives and saving health systems billions. In fact, this single advance may be one of the most significant in all of medical history.

When Alexander Fleming found a strain of mold that limited bacterial growth in his petri dish, he had no idea how pivotal this finding would be. The development of antibiotics, the most important advance in modern medicine, began with his accidental discovery. Antibiotics now serve as the standard of care for many bacterial infections and have saved countless lives.

Several other advances earned our top spot, including:

Mass General researchers use pulse dye lasers to remove the congenital birthmark port-wine stains without scarring. HMS geneticist James Gusella discovers a gene marker for Huntington’s disease, a fatal inherited condition, and develops a technique that allows scientists to find similar markers for other diseases.

Other major advancements include the first heart valve replacement, the first face and eye transplants, and a brain implant that allowed a man to speak for the first time in years. With continued innovation, the future looks even brighter. Just remember to read carefully when you see a “breakthrough” reported in the news. Consider the context of the research, how it was analyzed and whether the claims are backed by rigorous clinical trials.