The heart: location of the human soul--site of surgical intervention

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Implantation of the Syncardia Total Artificial Heart
16:11

Implantation of the Syncardia Total Artificial Heart

Published on: July 17, 2014

A End1, E Wolner

  • 1Second Department of Surgery, University of Vienna, Austria.

Journal of Cardiac Surgery
|May 1, 1993
PubMed

Insights

The heart, historically viewed as the body's center and seat of the soul, is now understood by modern science as a vital organ for blood circulation and a focus of cardiac surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Medical Humanities
  • Surgical Science

Background:

  • The heart has been culturally significant for millennia, symbolizing the mind, soul, and human "center."
  • Philosophical, literary, and theological traditions have long revered the heart's symbolic importance.

Observation:

  • Contemporary natural sciences define the heart primarily as an organic blood pump.
  • The heart is recognized as a critical site for complex surgical interventions.

Findings:

  • Cardiac surgery represents a highly specialized and respected field within medicine.
  • The scientific perspective contrasts with the historical and cultural reverence for the heart.

Implications:

  • Understanding the heart requires integrating its biological function with its profound historical and cultural symbolism.
  • This interdisciplinary view enriches the perception of cardiac surgery beyond its technical aspects.

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