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The total artificial heart--a bridge to transplantation
L Broecker1, T Zombolas, W J Keon
1University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ontario, Canada.
Insights
Total artificial heart (TAH) is used as a bridge to transplantation for patients with severe heart failure. This case study details the training, operation, and management of Canada's first TAH implantation in 1986.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Medical Device Technology
- Transplantation Medicine
Background:
- The total artificial heart (TAH) serves as a critical bridge to heart transplantation for patients with end-stage biventricular or left ventricular failure.
- Donor heart scarcity necessitates advanced mechanical circulatory support solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the initial training, surgical procedure, and postoperative management of Canada's first total artificial heart implantation.
- To provide insights into the early application of TAH technology in cardiac care.
Main Methods:
- Detailed description of the training protocols for the surgical and support teams.
- Chronological account of the TAH implantation surgery.
- Outline of the intensive postoperative care and management strategies.
Main Results:
- Successful implantation of Canada's first TAH on May 1, 1986.
- Demonstration of the feasibility of TAH utilization in a Canadian medical center.
Conclusions:
- The total artificial heart represents a viable option for patients awaiting heart transplantation.
- Early TAH implementation required specialized training and meticulous management for patient survival.
Abstract:
Many heart centers are utilizing the total artificial heart for a bridging technique to transplantation, particularly in patients with bi-ventricular failure or irreversible left ventricular failure, where a donor heart is not readily available. This discussion includes the training procedure, operation and management of Canada's first total artificial heart performed on May 1, 1986.