What is an artificial heart, in what situations is it used? For whom is artificial heart transplantation used?

What is Artificial Heart?

The device that pumps blood for the continuation of blood circulation is called an artificial heart. This device is a machine that performs the functions of the heart. Since it is placed on the heart for therapeutic purposes, it does not harm human health.

In order to implant an artificial heart into a person, the heart must be on the verge of losing all of its function. It is possible to be stuck with diseases related to the heart muscle, especially heart failure, after heart attacks. This device, which can be worn on the right and left side of the heart, functions like a heart pump.

Artificial heart is a heart made with metal evenings. Although the texture is not similar to the heart, its function is the same as that of the heart. With the developing technology, it is used by completely controlling the pumping pressure. In addition, it is confirmed by establishing a connection with the veins at the blood entry and exit points. For this reason, artificial heart surgeries cannot be completed in a short time.

In what situations is an artificial heart placed?

An artificial heart becomes an option when the heart cannot continue to function properly. Doctors may consider the artificial heart appropriate by evaluating the patient’s condition, age, and course of disease. In addition, an artificial heart transplant requires the consent of the board established in the hospital. If the board does not agree, the procedure will not be performed if the patient refuses treatment.

An artificial heart can be implanted if a suitable organ cannot be found when a heart transplant is needed. It can also be used in inflammation of the heart due to various conditions. If the heart recovers from inflammation, the device can be removed with another surgery.

The artificial heart can be implanted permanently or temporarily. It can also be attached to people whose condition worsens until the cause of the discomfort is found and treatment begins. In the future, it is certain that it will be removed or permanently according to the test results.

For whom is artificial heart transplantation used?

Replacing the heart with an artificial heart is a transplant procedure. Cardiologists are involved in this transplant process. Artificial heart transplant can be done in people who are believed to regain their health after the procedure.

If the device inserted into the heart does not damage other parts of the body, an artificial heart can be implanted in anyone. However, it is not preferred for people with immune systems that cannot handle the surgery. Artificial heart should not be implanted in patients whose age is quite advanced and it is difficult to wake up after anesthesia.

Patients in whom an artificial heart can be implanted are usually young patients. They are people whose condition has become serious and their blood circulation is weakened. Artificial heart transplant can be performed by looking at the person’s history, past heart disease, surgeries, EKG results, and blood values.

The application of an artificial heart, which is considered a heart transplant, cannot be performed in every hospital. It is appropriate to do this only in institutions that are licensed to carry out the transfer process. Depending on the person’s preference, this procedure can be performed in private or public hospitals.

Is Artificial Heart Transplant Risky?

Heart health is a vital condition. Loss of this health can lead to the end of a person’s life. In this context, the most urgent treatment methods are needed. Since the real heart is difficult to reach, artificial systems are used.

Every surgery has its own risks. All these risks are reported to the patients and their relatives before surgery. Therefore, artificial heart transplantation is also a risky operation. However, after the operations where each procedure is done correctly and no unexpected situations arise, the risk disappears.

There are some risks during surgery and after. Various inflammations can occur due to improper care of the wound. In addition, depending on the movements of the person, there is also the case of tearing of the sutures. With adequate care, these risks are eliminated and full recovery is possible.