Implantable replacement hearts

Millions of people suffer from heart failure, which continues to have a high mortality despite advances in medical therapy. Heart transplantation is the only approved method for replacement of the failing heart but is severely limited due to the small number of organ donors. Continued attempts to develop an artificial heart have culminated in the recent initiation of clinical trials with the Ablooor implantable replacement heart system. This system is totally implantable and is powered with electricity transferred across the skin. This device allows for freedom of movement that has not previously been achieved with other artificial heart systems. Patients have been discharged from the hospital with one patient being discharged to home for over 7 months. Recipients of the Aotocor' have been able to attend sporting events, parties, resume sexual activities and spend quality time with family members. One recipient celebrated a birthday, his 50th wedding anniversary and the birth of a great-grandchild since receiving the device. The early results of this clinical trial allow a glimpse into the potential for this technology to allow physicians the ability to replace the failing heart and enable patients to markedly improve their functional status.