Artificial Hearts
Temporary-Total Artificial Heart (TAH-t):
The modern version of the Jarvik-7 heart was first implanted in 1982. The first temporary Total Artificial Heart manufactured by CardioWest (SynCardia Systems Inc.) was recently transplanted at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital. Research studies suggest that patients receiving the TAH-t have almost twice the survival rate of patients receiving the ventricular assist devices.
 To implant the TAH-t the patient’s heart is removed and replaced with the artificial heart. The TAH-t is the only total artificial heart currently approved by the U.S. Federal Drug Administration (FDA), Health Canada and Communite Europeenne, as a bridge device to transplant.
Total Implantable Artificial Heart:
The AbioCor device, a total implantable artificial heart manufactured by ABIOMED was first implanted in 2001; and was approved by the FDA in 2006 as a humanitarian device. A disadvantage is its size, which presently is only compatible with males with larger frames. The current device has a life expectancy of about 18 months.
An AbioCor II device is scheduled for human trials in 2008. The new model will be smaller in size, making it more universal for both men and women. There also has been modification to decrease the risk of stroke which is a concern for the FDA. Life expectancy of the AbioCor II is projected to be about five years.
Compiled by www.cpraedcourse.com.
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