Abiomed - AbioCor® Implantable Replacement Heart

The AbioCor® Implantable Replacement Heart is the world’s first completely self-contained, internal artificial heart but also the first internal artificial organ. Developed by Abiomed, Inc. The AbioCor sustains the body’s circulatory system and mimics the function of the human heart. It is designed not only to extend the lives of patients who would otherwise die of heart failure, but also to offer a satisfactory quality of life. The AbioCor is intended to replace the severely damaged natural heart for patients who have no other treatment alternative.

                       

         AbioCor Man with components                        AbioCor in hand

The AbioCor is intended for use with patients who suffer from biventricular heart failure and for whom a heart transplant is not an option. Patients with other illnesses such as organ failure or cancer are in most circumstances kept off the heart transplant donor list.

The AbioCor is designed so that a patient can remain mobile and continue a productive lifestyle. The AbioCor is able to pump blood through the body, simulating the rhythm of a heartbeat. The complete AbioCor system consists of an internal thoracic unit, an internal rechargeable battery, an internal miniaturised electronics package and an external battery pack, handheld alarm monitor and sophisticated computer console.

The AbioCor eliminates the need for the patient to be permanently immobilised through tubes or wires connected to an external power source. As clinical experience is gained, patients are eventually expected to be able to leave the hospital and resume a more productive lifestyle.