Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 4, 2026
16:11
Implantation of the Syncardia Total Artificial Heart
Published on: July 18, 2014
[Mechanical cardiac support--the first use in Czech Republic]
Casopis Lekaru Ceskych
|March 26, 2005
Summary
The Thoratec biventricular assist device (BiVAD) shows promise for patients with advanced heart failure awaiting transplantation. This study indicates BiVAD is a suitable bridging strategy, improving organ function and long-term prognosis for transplant candidates.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Mechanical Circulatory Support
- Cardiac Surgery
Context:
- Refractory heart failure necessitates advanced treatment options.
- Mechanical assist devices are increasingly used for end-stage heart disease.
- Bridge-to-transplant (BTT) strategies aim to improve outcomes for transplant candidates.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the initial one-year clinical experience with the Thoratec VAD as a BTT procedure.
- To assess the efficacy and safety of biventricular assist device (BiVAD) implantation in high-risk heart failure patients.
Summary:
- Six patients with end-stage heart failure received Thoratec BiVAD implantation as a BTT procedure.
- All patients experienced improved organ function post-implantation.
- Five patients successfully underwent heart transplantation, with three surviving long-term.
Impact:
- Thoratec BiVAD implantation demonstrates potential as an effective BTT strategy.
- This approach may improve the long-term prognosis for select heart failure patients awaiting transplantation.
- Early organ function recovery and successful transplantation highlight the device's clinical utility.
