[Total artificial heart]. / Das komplett künstliche Herz.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: To date the CardioWest™ total artificial heart is the only clinically available implantable biventricular mechanical replacement for irreversible cardiac failure. OBJECTIVES: This article presents the indications, contraindications, implantation procedere and postoperative treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In addition to a overview of the applications of the total artificial heart this article gives a brief presentation of the two patients treated in our department with the CardioWest™. RESULTS: The clinical course, postoperative rehabilitation, device-related complications and control mechanisms are presented. CONCLUSION: The total artificial heart is a reliable implant for treating critically ill patients with irreversible cardiogenic shock. A bridge to transplantation is feasible with excellent results.