The future of artificial hearts: Hearts breakthroughs in becoming biomimetic

Heart failure occurs when the heart does not pump sufficient amounts of blood, causing a life-threatening situation. Currently, a heart transplant is the gold standard treatment for end-stage heart failure. However, due to the shortage of donor hearts, not everyone waiting for a heart transplant can be treated in time. In recent decades, significant research has been conducted on the development of total artificial hearts.
The aim of this dissertation was to develop and test a novel soft robotic total artificial heart (Hybrid Heart). By using only soft materials, we strived to mimic the contraction of the human heart, thereby preventing damage to blood cells and minimizing complications. Additionally, we attempted to grow the patient’s own cells on the blood contacting surfaces of the artificial heart chambers and on the heart valves. The creation of a layer of the patient’s own tissue on the artificial materials eliminates the need for blood thinners. To reduce the risk of infection and improve the quality of life for patients with a total artificial heart, we have also worked on the development of a wireless energy system that can power the implanted artificial heart without the need for power cables that penetrate the skin.
The chapters individually address different aspects total artificial heart development, including improving its biocompatibility, balancing the pumping force of both heart chambers, growing tissue on blood-contacting surfaces, and utilizing a wireless energy system. This dissertation provides a broad perspective on new developments and challenges in total artificial heart technology.