Results of study with Total Artificial Heart published in Transplantation Procs-SynCardia

The first single-center report, "Combined Heart-Kidney Transplantation After Total Artificial Heart Insertion," in Transplantation Proceedings discusses doctors' experience with implanting the SynCardia's temporary Total Artificial Heart into two consecutive patients as bridges to dual heart and kidney transplants. "The (Total Artificial Heart), by virtue of its capability of providing pulsatile flow at 6-10 (liters per minute), may be the mechanical circulatory support device most likely to recover patients with marginal renal function and advanced heart failure," conclude the 10 authors of the report published in the journal Transplantation Proceedings.

In a separate study, doctors worldwide found that the SynCardia Total Artificial Heart support often leads to the recovery of kidney failure. Of the 30 post-implant renal failure patients who were supported by the SynCardia Total Artificial Heart for a year or more, 73% recovered kidney function.

Comment: Originally designed as a permanent replacement heart, the TAH is currently approved as a bridge to human heart transplant for patients dying because both sides of their hearts are failing (irreversible end stage biventricular failure). With recent FDA approval of the 13.5-pound Freedom portable driver, clinically stable SynCardia Total Artificial Heart patients who require kidney dialysis can be discharged from the hospital and receive their dialysis as outpatients.