[Modern techniques of assistance and mechanical replacement of cardiac function]

There has been intensive technological and clinical research for many years into the assistance and mechanical replacement of cardiac function. The simplest systems (extracorporeal circulation using centrifuge pumps, hemopump) and more complex systems (orthotopic or heterotopic pneumatic ventricles, electric ventricles) have been shown to be effective in a variety of situations which up to now could not be controlled by pharmacological methods. These situations are made amenable to improvement by the application of these techniques. They make it possible to await the recovery of autonomous function or, in its absence, transplantation. Experience over the past 30 years provides guidance for current research into the artificial heart.