top of page
Bhomith Salunkhe
Aug 9, 20241 min read

Titanium Maglev Heart Successfully Implanted in Patient, Offering Hope for Those Awaiting Transplants

This device makes blood rush around the body using the same technology that makes maglev trains rush down their tracks.

In a groundbreaking medical advancement, the Texas Heart Institute has successfully implanted an artificial titanium heart into a human patient. This innovative device utilizes magnetic levitation (maglev) technology, similar to that used in high-speed trains, to pump blood mechanically throughout the body. The procedure marks a significant milestone in cardiac care, offering a potential alternative for patients awaiting heart transplants.


The patient, a 57-year-old male experiencing end-stage heart failure, received the BiVACOR total artificial heart as part of an early feasibility study approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The device was implanted as a bridge to a heart transplant, remaining in place for eight days until a suitable donor heart became available. Following the transplant, the patient has recovered well and is in good health.


This development holds promise for individuals on heart transplant waiting lists, potentially reducing wait times and improving quality of life. The use of maglev technology in the artificial heart allows for a more durable and efficient pump, potentially extending the device's functionality and lifespan. While still in the early stages of clinical application, this innovation represents a significant step forward in the field of cardiac surgery.

 

Edited by: Yash Pincha


107 views

Comments

bottom of page