Every year, many patients die as a result of heart failure. Various solutions have been attempted, but the best solution is installing an artificial heart. Additionally, those whose hearts are structurally weak can also save their lives with this artificial heart.
Scientists have been working on creating artificial hearts for a long time. Recently, a Paris-based company named Carmat has come very close to success in this endeavor. They hope that by the end of this year, people may be able to use this new type of artificial heart. It has taken nearly 15 years to develop, and it has been successfully tested experimentally in several countries. While many scientists around the world, in addition to Carmat, are trying to develop artificial hearts, some unique features have made this one successful. One of the biggest challenges for scientists was determining what to make the inner lining of the new artificial heart, which comes into contact with blood. Tests showed that using various plastic-like linings caused blood clotting. But Carmat’s scientists used organic cells, which prevented this clotting issue. In the United States alone, there are between 100,000 and 150,000 patients waiting for such an artificial heart. It is hoped that this new artificial heart can prevent premature deaths, and just as pacemakers have become commonplace, in the same way, patients will be able to lead healthy lives with this device.
Sources:
- http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/14/business/the-artificial-heart-is-getting-a-bovine-boost.html?partner=rss&emc=rss
Video:
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7N6-xuTArI
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Rs1z9XigUA
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52N1spX_yvg
- http://www.zimbio.com/watch/n4jKXHWDflC/Carmat+builds+artificial+heart/Reuters+Business+Video
- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbPhKDMmPaA
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