France applies aircraft technology to the development of artificial heart
Release date: 2008-11-07
In a groundbreaking move toward creating the world's first artificial heart that truly adapts to human needs, French scientists have integrated advanced aerospace technologies into their design. This innovative approach marks a significant step forward in the field of cardiac prosthetics.
The project, led by Carmat—a company affiliated with the European Aeronautics Defence and Space Agency (EADS), which is also part of Airbus—has successfully completed animal trials. If human testing proves successful, this device could potentially save millions of lives globally. Earlier this month, the artificial heart was showcased at an exhibition in Paris, drawing attention from medical professionals and researchers worldwide.
While companies like Abiomed in the U.S. have been developing artificial hearts for years, and research is ongoing in Japan and South Korea, the French version stands out for its ability to adjust its pumping rhythm based on the patient’s physiological needs. This feature represents a major leap in functionality compared to previous models.
The heart incorporates sensors originally designed for aircraft—such as those used to measure air pressure and altitude—to monitor the body’s demands and detect internal pressures. These innovations allow the device to function more intuitively, responding to the user's changing conditions. The estimated price range for the French artificial heart is between 150,000 and 192,140 euros, slightly lower than the American model, which costs between 193,000 and 250,000 euros.
Abiomed has acknowledged the progress made by French researchers but remains confident in its own position as a leader in the field. Meanwhile, details about artificial heart projects in Japan and South Korea remain limited due to a lack of published research.
The French artificial heart uses materials such as polymeric compounds and pig tissue—both of which have long been used in artificial heart valves. This choice significantly reduces the risk of immune rejection and blood clotting, two common complications with earlier devices.
Initially, the device will be implanted in patients with severe heart failure or large myocardial infarctions. Over time, it may be adapted for use in patients with less severe conditions. French doctors plan to begin human trials within the next two years.
According to the American Heart Association, approximately 2,200 heart transplants were performed in the U.S. in 2006. However, the demand far exceeds the supply, leaving thousands waiting for a transplant.
Previously, artificial hearts were primarily used as temporary solutions to keep patients alive until a donor heart became available. The French innovation aims to go beyond this limitation, offering a more permanent alternative.
Despite the promise, not everyone is convinced. Dr. Tim Gardner, director of the American Heart Association, expressed concerns about the unpredictable nature of implantable devices. He pointed to the example of drug-coated stents, which initially showed great promise but later raised serious safety issues.
Some experts worry about the risks associated with micro-devices inside the body. However, French scientists argue that since the artificial heart functions purely as a mechanical pump without releasing drugs, it may avoid some of the complications seen with other implants.
Others, however, remain cautious. Karl Swedberg, a cardiologist from Gothenburg University, described the development of artificial hearts as a high-risk area with many unresolved challenges. He questioned whether the French model could significantly reduce the number of patients on the transplant waiting list, citing the high cost and the complexity of the surgical procedure.
“The concept is promising,†he said, “but we should continue to focus on established treatment options.†—Shanghai Medical Device Industry Association
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