Introduction
An artificial heart is a mechanical device designed to pump blood around the body, replacing the functions of a biological heart. The invention of the artificial heart has helped to save countless lives and revolutionized medical science. But when was the artificial heart invented? This article will explore the history of the artificial heart, its evolution over time, and how it has changed lives.
Historical Timeline of Artificial Heart Inventions
The concept of an artificial heart dates back centuries, with the earliest accounts of such a device being found in ancient Greek mythology. In the story of Talos, an automated bronze giant was said to act as a guardian for the island of Crete, powered by a spring inside its chest. While this may be a work of fiction, it does show that the idea of an artificial heart has been around for many years.
It wasn’t until the 20th century that real progress was made in the development of an artificial heart. In the 1950s, Dr. Paul Winchell and Dr. Henry Heimlich collaborated on a project to create a mechanical heart. Their work led to the first successful implantation of an artificial heart in 1969, in a patient named Haskell Karp. Since then, there have been numerous advancements in the field of artificial heart technology.
The Evolution of Artificial Hearts from Invention to Present Day
Since the initial invention of the artificial heart, there have been many developments in terms of design and materials used to construct these devices. In the 1980s, researchers at the University of Utah developed the Jarvik-7, the first self-contained total artificial heart. This device was implanted in a human patient in 1982, and was a major step forward in heart technology.
Since then, there have been numerous breakthroughs in the field of artificial heart technology. In the early 2000s, scientists developed a new generation of artificial hearts made from biocompatible materials such as polyurethane and titanium. These materials allowed for stronger and more durable artificial hearts, and opened up the possibility of longer-term implants. In recent years, researchers have also developed smaller and lighter artificial hearts, making them more suitable for pediatric patients.
A Comprehensive Guide to Artificial Heart Technology
There are several different types of artificial hearts currently available. The most common type is the total artificial heart, which replaces both ventricles of the heart and pumps oxygenated and deoxygenated blood throughout the body. Other types of artificial hearts include left-ventricular assist devices (LVADs), right-ventricular assist devices (RVADs), and biventricular assist devices (BiVADs).
All of these devices work similarly: they consist of two pumps connected to a power source, either an internal battery or an external power supply. The pumps are connected to tubes, which are placed into the heart’s chambers. When activated, the pumps draw blood from one chamber and push it into the other, thus simulating the action of a natural heart.
In addition to the pumps, artificial hearts also contain various sensors and controllers to monitor the device’s performance and detect any irregularities. They also include valves to control the flow of blood, and a reservoir to store extra blood in case of emergency. Finally, artificial hearts usually also have a telemetry system, allowing doctors to remotely monitor the device’s performance.
How Artificial Hearts Have Changed Lives
The invention of the artificial heart has had a profound impact on the lives of those who receive them. For many, it is a life-saving device that allows them to live longer and healthier lives. It can also help those with heart conditions to lead more active lifestyles, as the device eliminates the need for frequent hospital visits.
For some, the artificial heart also offers a sense of freedom and independence. Many patients report feeling liberated from the restrictions imposed by their condition, and feel empowered by their newfound freedom. As one patient stated, “Having an artificial heart has given me my life back. I am no longer tied down by my condition, and I can finally live the life I want to live.”
Conclusion
The invention of the artificial heart has revolutionized medicine and changed the lives of countless individuals. From its origins in ancient Greek mythology to its modern day applications, the artificial heart has come a long way in a short period of time. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of many pioneers, the artificial heart is now a viable option for those suffering from heart conditions.
As research and development continues, the future of artificial heart technology is looking brighter than ever. With each passing year, new breakthroughs are being made in terms of materials, design, and functionality. It is clear that the artificial heart will continue to play an important role in medical science for many years to come.
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