Human hearts are masterpieces of biological engineering, capable of pumping blood around our bodies to sustain life. Unfortunately, severe heart disease or failure puts a person’s wellbeing in jeopardy if their natural heart becomes damaged beyond repair; for such individuals an artificial heart, an innovative breakthrough in medical technology, offers lifesaving support by replicating its functions in real time.
What Is an Artificial Heart (TAH)
An artificial heart is a mechanical device designed to replace damaged or failing hearts with pumping functions similar to their original heart’s pumping mechanism, including taking over pumping functions such as heart rhythm control and blood pumping functions. TAHs come in two varieties; total Artificial Hearts and partial Artificial Hearts are options available depending on individual requirements.
Ventricular Assist Device (VAD)
- Provides additional assistance for natural heart function by aiding one or both ventricles to pump blood efficiently. These devices may serve both temporary and long-term needs for individuals awaiting heart transplant surgery or who do not qualify.
Artificial hearts use advanced technology to replicate the functions of an actual natural heart like:
PUMPING BLOOD
These artificial devices use chambers and valves similar to what would be found inside of the natural one to circulate blood throughout your body and lungs, effectively replacing its role of pumping it around as the heart does naturally.
Power Source
Many artificial hearts rely on external batteries connected through wires or tubes for power while some use internal rechargeable systems for support.
Sensors and Software:
Modern artificial hearts come equipped with sophisticated sensors and software which dynamically adapt blood flow according to patient activity level.
Artificial Heart Evolution
The journey of artificial hearts began during the mid 20th century with significant milestones: 1957 Dr Willem Kolff developed the first artificial heart prototype.
- 1982 marked an historic first when Jarvik-7 became the first artificial heart implanted into human beings; nowadays devices are smaller, stronger, more reliable, adaptable and offer better patient results than their predecessors.
Artificial hearts offer numerous benefits that extend lives: for instance, extended lifespan. Artificial hearts enable patients suffering from severe heart failure to live longer and healthier lives with artificial hearts than before.
- For patients awaiting donor hearts, an artificial heart serves as a temporary but lifesaving measure until an organ donation becomes possible.
In cases where transplant is no longer an option, this device could offer long-term solutions as an effective long-term option.
Challenges and Risks
Artificial hearts may bring many advantages; however, they also present unique risks:
Infection Risks: External components increase the chance of infection.
Mechanical Failures: Just like with any device, mechanical devices may malfunction at times.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Patients need to adapt their lifestyle in order to live with these mechanical devices – including managing power supplies and restricting certain activities.
Future of Artificial Heart Technology
Artificial heart technology continues to progress with advances in biotechnology and engineering Biocompatible Materials are being created that reduce complications while increasing durability of artificial hearts.
Miniaturization: More compact devices are being created in order to enhance mobility.
Wireless Power: Work continues on developing implantable wireless power sources to provide greater convenience for patients.
Scientists are exploring bioartificial hearts which combine mechanical parts with living tissues for possible hybrid solutions.
Artificial hearts are testaments of human innovation, revolutionising cardiac care and saving countless lives. While challenges still remain, ongoing innovations promise to make these devices even more efficient and accessible – giving hope and comfort to millions suffering from cardiovascular conditions globally.