Note
Studied by 6 people
12) Cardiovascular diseases continued:
1. Artificial Hearts
Purpose: Artificial hearts are mechanical devices used to pump blood when a patient’s heart has failed.
When Used:
Temporary Fix: Used to keep patients alive until a donor heart becomes available.
Permanent Fix: In rare cases, they may be used permanently if a transplant isn't an option.
Advantages: | Disadvantages: |
Less likely to be rejected by the immune system because they’re made from metal or plastic, so the body doesn’t recognize them as foreign tissue. | Risk of bleeding and infection during surgery. |
Blood doesn’t flow as smoothly, which can lead to clots and strokes. | |
Patients need blood-thinning drugs, increasing bleeding risks in accidents. |
2. Heart Valve Replacement
Heart Valves: Can be damaged by heart attacks, infections, or aging.
Damaged Valves may stiffen (not open fully) or leak, allowing blood to flow backward. This reduces effective blood circulation.
Replacement Options:
Biological Valves: Taken from human or animal tissue (e.g., cow or pig valves).
Mechanical Valves: Man-made and long-lasting but may require blood-thinning medication.
Procedure: Less intense than a full heart transplant but still has risks, such as blood clots.
3. Artificial Blood
Purpose: Used to maintain blood volume in emergencies, allowing the heart to pump remaining red blood cells and supply oxygen to organs.
Types: Often a salt solution (like saline), which is a safe blood substitute if no air bubbles are introduced.
Benefits:
Keeps a person alive after major blood loss, giving time for the body to produce new blood cells or for a blood transfusion if needed.