Innovative technology revolutionizes heart transplants
In a groundbreaking development in artificial heart transplants, scientists at the Texas Heart Institute (THI) have successfully implanted a heart made of titanium.
This landmark operation was part of an early feasibility study overseen by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). According to THI, the heart is a “titanium-constructed biventricular rotary blood pump with a single moving part that utilizes a magnetically levitated rotor to pump blood, replacing both ventricles of a failing heart.”
Advanced engineering for lifesaving solutions
The titanium heart, developed by BiVACOR, leverages the same technology used in high-speed rail lines. BiVACOR has been refining this device since 2013. The use of a magnetically levitated rotor eliminates friction, significantly reducing wear and tear and extending the heart’s operational life. The heart operates with a small rechargeable external controller, capable of pushing blood at a rate of 12 liters per minute, sufficient to sustain an adult.
The titanium heart promises greater durability.
Unlike other artificial hearts that rely on flexible polymer diaphragms, which tend to wear out quickly, the titanium heart promises greater durability.
“This achievement would not have been possible without the courage of our first patient and their family, the dedication of our team, and our expert collaborators at The Texas Heart Institute,” said Daniel Timms, founder and CTO of BiVACOR.
“Utilising advanced maglev technology, our TAH brings us one step closer to providing a desperately needed option for people with end-stage heart failure who require support while waiting for a heart transplant. I look forward to continuing the next phase of our clinical trial.”
3,400 patients across the United States are on the waiting list for a heart transplant each day
Despite its advantages, the titanium heart is intended primarily for patients awaiting a permanent heart transplant. According to the American Heart Association, approximately 3,400 patients across the United States are on the waiting list for a heart transplant each day. This innovative development could offer a critical lifeline to those patients, providing essential support while they await a donor heart.