O. H. Frazier

O H Frazier MD (cropped)

O. H. Frazier is a prominent American cardiovascular surgeon and medical researcher known for his pioneering work in the development of artificial hearts and heart transplantation techniques. He has made significant contributions to the field of cardiothoracic surgery and has been instrumental in advancing the treatment of heart failure.

Early Life and Education

O. H. Frazier was born in Corpus Christi, Texas. He completed his undergraduate studies at The University of Texas at Austin and went on to earn his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.

Career

Frazier began his medical career at the Texas Heart Institute, where he worked under the mentorship of Denton Cooley, a renowned cardiovascular surgeon. Over the years, Frazier has held various positions at the Texas Heart Institute, including Director of Cardiovascular Surgery Research and Chief of the Transplant Service.

Contributions to Medicine

Frazier is best known for his work in the development of ventricular assist devices (VADs) and total artificial hearts (TAHs). He has been involved in numerous clinical trials and has performed thousands of heart surgeries, including heart transplants and the implantation of mechanical circulatory support devices.

Ventricular Assist Devices

Frazier played a key role in the development and clinical implementation of VADs, which are used to support patients with severe heart failure. These devices help to pump blood from the ventricles to the rest of the body, providing a bridge to heart transplantation or serving as a long-term solution for patients who are not candidates for a transplant.

Total Artificial Hearts

Frazier has also been a pioneer in the use of TAHs, which replace the entire heart in patients with end-stage heart failure. His work has helped to improve the design and functionality of these devices, making them a viable option for patients awaiting a heart transplant.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Frazier has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to cardiovascular medicine. These include the American Heart Association's Distinguished Scientist Award and the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation's Lifetime Achievement Award.

Personal Life

Frazier is married and has children. He continues to be active in research and clinical practice, dedicating his life to improving the outcomes for patients with heart disease.

Related Pages

• Cardiothoracic surgery
• Heart failure
• Ventricular assist device
• Total artificial heart
• Heart transplantation
• Texas Heart Institute
• Denton Cooley

References

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