Progress on the total artificial heart

The total artificial heart (TAH) is a device that fully replaces the failing heart and provides control of the circulatory system. This device has been used to provide permanent support, however, its most important role is to serve as a bridge to cardiac transplantation. There are two of these devices available: the CardioWest C-70TM (Symbion, Jarvik J-7™) and the Penn State Heart. The TAH replaces the ventricles and is anastomosed to the respective atria and great vessels. It is constructed of segmental polyurethane and utilizes mechanical heart valves for inflow and outflow. It connects to a console via drive lines that pierce the skin, The TAH is pneumatically driven, and a personal computer monitors its function. Its advantages include control of the circulatory system, reversal of early organ failure, and early mobility of the patient. Its disadvantages include cost, and the complications of infection and thromboembolism. Further investigation of this device is required to develop an optimal total artificial heart.