How useful is an artificial heart?

How useful is an artificial heart?

Heart failure affects about 26 million persons in the world and the prevalence is increasing as the population is aging. When medical therapy fails, heart transplant is the best option for those with heart failure.

Of course, everyone knows the difficulty in getting a heart transplant donor. This is where the role of artificial heart comes in. It can certainly increase the window period of waiting for a donor and possibly as a destination therapy soon!

An artificial heart is basically a battery driven pump which draws in blood from the heart and pumps it to the rest of the body to support circulation.

The battery will have to be charged periodically and it is worn externally. Battery can be attached to a vest, belt or a bag. Mobile power units are also available for use when AC power is not wanted or available. Fully charged batteries can power the system for 17 hours.

Potential problems of clot formation and destruction of blood cells within the mechanical pump have to be watched for and taken care of. Pump clotting events can occur in about 5% over 6 months. Infection is another potential risk.

Over 27,000 patients have been implanted with artificial heart worldwide. 76.7% 2 year survival with significant increase in 6 minute walk distance were noted.

77% of patients improved significantly at 6 months and improvement was sustained for 24 months. Average 6 minute walk distance improved from 129 meters at baseline to 361 meters at 2 years.

*Data from manufacturer’s website about HeartMate II™