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The Artificial Heart: How Close are We, and Do We Want to Get There?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 2021

Paul D. Simmons
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Extract

On July 2, 2001, a medical milestone was reached when Robert Tools received a total artificial heart implant at Jewish Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky. Tools was implanted with an AbioCor artificial heart, one of several brands of new-generation artificial hearts that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for clinical trial. The AbioCor heart was developed by Abiomed of Danvers, Massachusetts.

Following the surgery, physicians were guardedly enthusiastic about the device and optimistic about the patient’s future. Tools, 59, has had a history of numerous heart attacks and by-pass surgery, as well as diabetes and kidney problems. He met the requirements of the AbioCor protocol because he was not a candidate for transplant, death was otherwise probable within thirty days, and other interventions were deemed ineffective. Researchers hope that strengthening his heart function will result in increased function of his other vital organs, thus prolonging the patient's life and increasing his energy. But because the device is experimental, nothing can be promised.

Type
Currents in Contemporary Ethics
Information
Journal of Law, Medicine & Ethics , Volume 29 , Issue 3-4 , Fall Winter 2001 , pp. 401 - 406
Copyright
Copyright © American Society of Law, Medicine and Ethics 2001

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