An artificial heart is a medical device designed to replace the function of a failing human heart by pumping blood throughout the body. It is typically used in patients with end-stage heart failure who have no other treatment options, such as a donor transplant.
One of the most advanced examples is the AbioCor artificial heart, developed by Abiomed.
What is an artificial heart?
An artificial heart is a mechanical device that:
- Replaces the heart’s pumping function
- Maintains blood circulation
- Delivers oxygen to the body
Unlike a natural heart, it uses mechanical and electronic systems instead of muscle contractions.
How does an artificial heart work?
The artificial heart works using a hydraulic pumping system.
Here’s how it functions:
- A hydraulic pump creates pressure using fluid
- The fluid moves back and forth inside the device
- This motion pumps blood through artificial ventricles
- Blood is sent alternately to:
- The lungs
- The rest of the body
This system mimics the natural heart’s role, although it pumps one side at a time instead of both simultaneously.
What are the main components of the AbioCor artificial heart?
The AbioCor includes several advanced parts:
- Hydraulic pump – drives blood circulation
- Porting valve – controls fluid movement
- Internal battery – provides short-term power
- External battery – worn outside the body
- Controller – regulates heart function
- Wireless energy system (TET) – transfers power through the skin
Together, these components allow the heart to function continuously.
How powerful is an artificial heart?
The AbioCor can pump:
- More than 10 liters of blood per minute
- Enough to support normal daily activities
This is similar to the performance of a healthy human heart.
Who can receive an artificial heart?
Artificial hearts are used in very specific cases.
Candidates typically:
- Have end-stage heart failure
- Have a life expectancy of less than 30 days
- Are not eligible for a heart transplant
It is often considered a last-resort treatment.
How is an artificial heart implanted?
The surgery is complex and can take about seven hours.
Key steps include:
- Removing the damaged ventricles
- Connecting the artificial heart to major blood vessels
- Implanting power and control systems
- Using a heart-lung machine during surgery
A large medical team is required due to the procedure’s complexity.
What are the benefits of artificial hearts?
Artificial hearts can:
- Extend life expectancy
- Improve blood circulation
- Provide hope for patients with no alternatives
In some cases, they can double the expected survival time.
What are the limitations of artificial hearts?
Despite their benefits, artificial hearts have challenges:
- Limited lifespan (months to a few years)
- Risk of infection
- Dependence on external power sources
- Complex and expensive surgery
How does an artificial heart differ from a natural heart?
A natural heart:
- Beats using muscle contractions
- Pumps both sides simultaneously
An artificial heart:
- Uses mechanical pumping
- Pumps blood in alternating cycles
Conclusion: How artificial hearts work
Artificial hearts like the AbioCor use advanced mechanical and electronic systems to replace the heart’s pumping function. While they are not a permanent solution for most patients, they provide a life-saving option for those with severe heart failure.
As technology improves, artificial hearts may become more efficient, durable, and widely available in the future.
