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Updated: May 4, 2026
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Implantation of Total Artificial Heart in Congenital Heart Disease
Published on: July 18, 2014
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[An artificial heart: bridge to transplantation or permanent?]
Bas A J M de Mol1, Jaap Lahpor
1AMC, Hartcentrum, Amsterdam.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|December 19, 2013
Summary
Artificial hearts are continuous-flow pumps improving survival but remain a temporary solution. Technological advancements may make them a long-term alternative to heart transplantation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Artificial hearts are continuous-flow pump devices supporting the left ventricle.
- Recent advancements have significantly improved survival rates for artificial heart recipients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the current role and future potential of artificial hearts in treating end-stage heart failure.
- To compare artificial heart therapy with heart transplantation.
Main Methods:
- Review of survival rates and complication data for artificial heart recipients over the past five years.
- Comparison of annual mortality rates between artificial heart therapy and heart transplantation.
- Analysis of the 'bridge to transplantation' and 'destination therapy' applications.
Main Results:
- Survival rates with artificial hearts have dramatically increased.
- Annual mortality for artificial hearts is 10%, compared to 6% for heart transplantation.
- Artificial hearts are primarily used as a bridge to transplantation or destination therapy for ineligible patients.
Conclusions:
- Artificial hearts currently serve as a crucial, albeit temporary, solution for heart failure.
- Technological progress is expected to reduce complications and enhance the long-term viability of artificial hearts.
- Future developments may position artificial hearts as a long-term treatment option comparable to heart transplantation, offering improved quality of life.
