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Updated: May 5, 2026
Implantation of the Syncardia Total Artificial Heart
Published on: July 18, 2014
Ninety-day survival of a calf implanted with a continuous-flow total artificial heart
William E Cohn1, Jo Anna Winkler, Steven Parnis
1From the Cardiovascular Research Laboratories, Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital, Houston, Texas.
Insights
This study shows that a continuous-flow total artificial heart (CFTAH) can support a calf for 90 days without harming end-organ function. The CFTAH, made from two axial-flow ventricular assist devices, demonstrated sustained performance and animal well-being.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular research
- Biomedical engineering
- Artificial organ development
Background:
- Total artificial hearts (TAHs) are crucial for end-stage heart failure treatment.
- Previous TAH models faced challenges with long-term durability and physiological compatibility.
- Continuous-flow TAHs (CFTAHs) offer potential for improved hemocompatibility and reduced device size.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term effects of CFTAH support on end-organ function in a calf model.
- To assess the hemocompatibility and physiological performance of a novel CFTAH design.
- To establish the feasibility of sustained CFTAH support for 90 days.
Main Methods:
- A CFTAH was constructed using two axial-flow ventricular assist devices.
- A calf model was utilized for a 90-day study period.
- Continuous monitoring of pump parameters, hemodynamics, blood gases, hematology, and neurohormone levels was performed.
Main Results:
- Transient mild hematologic abnormalities resolved within the first week post-surgery.
- No evidence of hemolysis or thrombosis was observed during the 90-day study.
- Normal mental function, end-organ function, and vasomotor function were maintained throughout the study period.
Conclusions:
- CFTAH support using axial-flow ventricular assist devices is viable for long-term (90-day) application in an animal model.
- This study demonstrates the potential of CFTAHs to maintain physiological function and end-organ health.
- The findings support further investigation into CFTAHs as a therapeutic option for advanced heart failure.
Abstract:
We evaluated the effects of steady state flow and perfusion on end-organ function in a long-term calf model. The animal received a continuous-flow total artificial heart (CFTAH) that we created from two axial-flow ventricular assist devices. Pump flow, blood pressure, and other pump parameters were monitored throughout the study, as were arterial blood gas and hematologic values, including neurohormone levels. Some hematologic values were mildly abnormal transiently after surgery but returned to acceptable levels within the first week. During the 90-day study, the calf showed no signs of hemolysis or thrombosis. Its mental function remained normal, as evidenced by the animal's interest in its surroundings and response to stimuli. End-organ and vasomotor function was not adversely affected by 90 days of steady state flow. This was the first study in which CFTAH support of an animal model was maintained for this duration.
