Current status of the AbioCor implantable replacement heart

The AbioCor implantable replacement heart (IRH) has been developed as an alternative to transplant (ie, destination therapy). We report our experience with the AbioCor IRH in a bovine model at the University of Louisville.

Male Holstein cows were used (85 to 115 kg). The internal controller, battery, and secondary transcutaneous energy transfer coil were implanted in the right flank. After cardiopulmonary bypass, the thoracic unit was implanted orthotopically. After removal of air and weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass, the AbioCor was connected to internal components and energy transfer through transcutaneous energy transfer coils was achieved.

Nineteen animals underwent implantation of the AbioCor IRH for a proposed 30-day duration. There were 6 deaths, none related to device malfunction. All animals demonstrated normal hemodynamics with normal pressures in the aorta, pulmonary artery, left atrium, and right atrium. There was no significant hemolysis and all animals demonstrated normal end organ function. The internal battery allowed for brief periods of untethered mobility.

The AbioCor IRH has resulted in normal hemodynamics and normal end organ function without evidence of hemolysis in a bovine model.