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Risks of an Artificial Heart

For some people suffering from advanced heart disease, an artificial heart can be a life-saving device. Models on the market as of 2010 have worked fairly well, but they are expensive, with some containing a price tag of $250,000 according to Time.com. There are also a number of risks that come with receiving an artificial heart, so they are typically only used as a last resort.

  1. Blood Clots

    • Recipients of artificial hearts can experience blood clotting, which is the body's reaction to a foreign object. Blood clots can lead to blocked blood vessels, resulting in heart attack or stroke. Patients receiving artificial hearts are typically placed on blood thinning medication to reduce the risk of the formation of clots.

    Malfunction

    • Although their overall track record is good, since artificial hearts are mechanical devices, there is always the risk that they could fail. In addition to the cessation of operation, it's possible it may not pump blood properly, or one of the parts may not work properly.

    Infection

    • As with virtually any type of surgery, the recipient of an artificial heart faces the risk of infection. Some types of artificial hearts requite the insertion of tubes through the skin, which can allow potentially infection-creating bacteria to enter the body. Patients may need to continuously monitor themselves for signs of infection such as the onset of a fever. Medication is available that can reduce the risk of infection.

    Internal Bleeding

    • Internal bleeding is a risk both during and after the long, complicated artificial heart implantation surgery. The need for anti-clotting medication can increase the risk of bleeding. Doctors need to monitor the patient closely following surgery to ensure that the right dosage of medication has been prescribed.

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