Berlin Heart

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Skulptur Wiesenweg 10 (Lankw) Berlin Heart Bär

Berlin Heart is a type of ventricular assist device (VAD) used to support heart function and blood flow in individuals with weakened hearts. This device is particularly notable for its application in both pediatric and adult patients who are awaiting heart transplantation or are not eligible for transplantation. The Berlin Heart comes in various sizes to accommodate different patient sizes, making it a critical option for infants and children with severe heart failure, a group for whom the device options are limited.

Overview

The Berlin Heart works by taking over the function of the ventricles (the heart's main pumping chambers), either partially or completely, depending on the patient's needs. It is an external device, with one part placed inside the body while the pump and control unit remain outside. This setup allows for adjustments to be made easily by healthcare providers to optimize support for the patient's heart.

Components

The Berlin Heart consists of several key components:

• Blood Pump(s): These are attached directly to the heart's ventricles and are responsible for pumping blood.
• Drive Unit: This external unit powers the blood pumps and can be adjusted to change the pumping rate and pressure.
• Cannulae: Tubes that connect the blood pumps to the heart and the major blood vessels, allowing blood to flow through the device and back into the body.

Indications

The Berlin Heart is used in cases of severe heart failure where conventional medical therapy has failed, and the patient is awaiting a heart transplant or is not a candidate for transplantation. It is a life-saving option for patients with end-stage heart disease, providing them with an opportunity to survive until a suitable donor heart becomes available or their heart recovers enough function to no longer need assistance.

Advantages and Challenges

One of the main advantages of the Berlin Heart is its availability in sizes suitable for very small children, including infants, which is a significant benefit given the scarcity of pediatric-sized VADs. However, like all VADs, the Berlin Heart comes with risks, including blood clots, infection, and bleeding complications. The external nature of the device also requires patients and caregivers to manage the device carefully to avoid infections and mechanical problems.

Clinical Outcomes

Patients supported by the Berlin Heart have shown improved survival rates while awaiting heart transplantation compared to those managed with medical therapy alone. The device has also been used successfully as a bridge to recovery, allowing some patients' hearts to rest and heal sufficiently to function without mechanical support.

Regulatory Status

The Berlin Heart has received regulatory approval in many countries, including a specific approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States for pediatric use, highlighting its importance in treating heart failure in children.

Conclusion

The Berlin Heart represents a significant advancement in the treatment of severe heart failure, offering hope and a chance for survival to patients, particularly children, who have limited treatment options. Its development and use underscore the importance of continued innovation in medical devices to address the needs of patients with complex health conditions.