The Artificial Heart: A Journey Towards Permanence

The quest for an artificial heart has been a long-standing challenge in the medical field. From Barney Clark's historic implantation of the first permanent artificial heart to the current advancements in technology, scientists have worked tirelessly to create a device that can sustain human life for more than just months.

In 1982, Barney Clark, a Seattle dentist who had undergone years of treatment with steroids, was struggling to cope with his ravaged heart. Cardiothoracic surgeon William DeVries carefully removed Clark's heart and replaced it with the world's first permanent artificial heart, the Jarvik 7. This groundbreaking procedure marked a significant milestone in the development of artificial hearts.

However, the journey towards creating a functional and sustainable artificial heart has been far from straightforward. In the early days, devices like the Jarvik 7 proved to be faulty, leading to painful and cumbersome existences for patients who received them. The first total artificial heart, implanted by Dr. Denton A. Cooley in 1969, was also plagued by issues.

Despite these setbacks, scientists have continued to push the boundaries of what is possible. Today, companies like Ībiomed and SynCardia Systems are developing innovative solutions. Ībiomed's AbioCor, for example, is a self-contained total artificial heart powered by electricity. Meanwhile, SynCardia Systems' Temporary Total Artificial Heart has become a primary device used in the United States.

The question remains whether these devices are simply trying to keep people alive, even if they are in pain, or if they offer a reasonable option for those awaiting a real transplant. The use of the word 'permanent' has become somewhat taboo, as many experts question whether it is feasible to create an artificial heart that can truly sustain someone's life.

In conclusion, the journey towards creating a functional and sustainable artificial heart has been long and arduous. While there have been setbacks along the way, scientists continue to work towards their goal of giving people with severe heart failure a new lease on life. As we navigate the complexities of this challenge, it is essential that we consider not only the technical advancements but also the ethical implications of creating artificial hearts that can sustain human life for extended periods.

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