Current status of the AbioCor implantable replacement heart

Background. The AbioCor implantable replacement heart (IRH) has been develo ped as an alternative to transplant tie, destination therapy). We report ou r experience with the AbioCor IRH in a bovine model at the University of Lo uisville. Methods. Male Holstein cows were used (85 to 115 kg). The internal controll er, battery, and secondary transcutaneous energy transfer coil were implant ed in the right flank. After cardiopulmonary bypass, the thoracic unit was implanted orthotopically. After removal of air and weaning from cardiopulmo nary bypass, the AbioCor was connected to internal components and energy tr ansfer through transcutaneous energy transfer coils was achieved. Results. Nineteen animals underwent implantation of the AbioCor IRH for a p roposed 30-day duration. There were 6 deaths, none related to device malfun ction. All animals demonstrated normal hemodynamics with normal pressures i n the aorta, pulmonary artery, left atrium, and right atrium. There was no significant hemolysis and all animals demonstrated normal end organ functio n. The internal battery allowed for brief periods of untethered mobility. Conclusions. The AbioCor IRH has resulted in normal hemodynamics and normal end organ function without evidence of hemolysis in a bovine model. (C) 20 01 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.