We need to understand that, with this new technology, we may have failures. Lederman said a second goal is to evaluate how the unattached, mobile mechanical heart affects the quality of life of those patients, most of whom are so ill that they cannot walk or perform the daily routine of life, such as getting dressed. Less advanced mechanical hearts are now used strictly as a bridge until transplant organs can be found, but these devices are hooked to external power sources and pumps. The AbioCor is totally self-contained within the chest, Lederman said. There are internal valves that mimic the action of the natural heart's pump system.
Power comes from a battery pack worn outside the body.
A coil sends power through the skin to an implanted coil that then carries the power to an implanted control package and backup, short-term battery. There are no wire or tube connections outside the skin. The external battery pack must be recharged every four hours, but the patient can wear a spare package. The internal battery is kept charged and can operate the heart for about 30 minutes without the external battery. Patients will be able to shower, change clothes and walk around.