WILLIAM E. COHN, M.D.

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This study looked at a new robotic device designed to help doctors place central venous catheters, which are important for patients needing serious medical treatment. In a test with 17 patients, the device successfully placed catheters in all attempts, with most placements being completed on the first try. This matters because it shows that using this robotic system can make the process safer and more efficient for those who need quick access to their veins. Who this helps: This benefits patients who require hemodialysis and other critical treatments.

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This study looked at a new device called the Minimally Invasive Targeted Resection (MiTR) that can remove lung tissue while sealing blood vessels and airways to prevent bleeding and air leaks. In tests on pigs, the device successfully excised 19 samples of lung tissue, with 89% of the animals showing no bleeding and air leaks immediately after the procedure and 100% success in chronic cases over a week. This matters because the MiTR could provide more tissue for testing than current methods, making it easier to diagnose and treat lung cancer with less invasive procedures. Who this helps: This helps patients with lung abnormalities and lung cancer.

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Researchers replaced the hearts of eight calves with mechanical pumps that provide continuous, smooth blood flow (rather than the natural heartbeat's pulsing action) and kept the animals alive for an average of nearly 60 days. Blood tests, organ function markers, and tissue examinations showed that the calves' organs remained healthy throughout this period, and several calves could even exercise on a treadmill. This proves that a completely artificial heart using this continuous-flow technology can work long-term without damaging the body's organs, opening the door to developing this technology for humans who need heart transplants.

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Researchers tested a new way to safely access the heart's surrounding area (the pericardial space) using a right atrium puncture and carbon dioxide gas in pigs. In their study with 8 pigs, this method was successful without causing injuries to the heart or blood vessels. This is important because it could lead to safer procedures for heart treatments, reducing risks during surgery. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing heart procedures and their doctors.

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This study looked at how to improve the design of rotary blood pumps, which are used to help circulate blood, by creating better washout features. Researchers found that using a new model to predict flow in the pumps led to improved washing out of blood, preventing damage to blood cells; specifically, they discovered that making the conical part of the pump narrower significantly increased the washout flow. This matters because it can help reduce the risk of serious complications, like blood clots and damage to red blood cells, in patients who rely on these devices. Who this helps: This helps patients who need rotary blood pumps, particularly those with heart conditions.

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Researchers documented a 25-year-old man who wore an artificial heart pump for over 5 years—longer than any previously reported case—and then successfully had it removed when his own heart recovered enough to work on its own. Artificial heart pumps save lives in people with severe heart failure, but they carry serious risks like stroke and infection, so doctors ideally want to remove them once the heart heals. This case shows that even after many years of pump support, a patient's heart can still recover enough to function without it, and doctors should keep trying to wean patients off these devices rather than assuming they'll need them forever.

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This study looked at a new way to safely close the heart after removing a specific type of heart pump called a left ventricular assist device. The researchers developed a simple method using materials like Teflon and Dacron to create a plug that seals the opening in the heart after the pump is taken out. This is important because it offers a safer and less invasive option for patients who no longer need the device. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from heart surgery.

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This study focused on how well different types of total artificial hearts can balance blood flow between the lungs and the rest of the body without needing active adjustment. Researchers tested four types of rotary blood pumps (RBPs) and found that none of them completely met the desired flow balancing standards, but the VentrAssist and HeartAssist 5 pumps performed the best. Improving the balance could lead to fewer manual adjustments needed, which makes these artificial hearts safer and easier to use. Who this helps: This benefits heart failure patients who may need a total artificial heart.

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This study looked at the CorInnova heart assist device, which is designed to help patients with acute heart failure. In tests with six sheep, the device improved heart function by increasing blood flow by 1.0 liters per minute, even while reducing the workload on the heart. This is important because it shows that the CorInnova device could provide safer and more effective temporary support for patients with heart problems. Who this helps: Patients suffering from acute heart failure.

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Researchers studied a new way to design small heart pumps, known as miniature left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), which help people with heart failure. They created a statistical model that predicts how well these pumps will perform based on different design variables, instead of relying on time-consuming experiments. Their findings showed that this model accurately predicted the performance of two test pumps, which can speed up the design process. Who this helps: This helps heart failure patients who could benefit from better, faster-designed heart pumps.

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This study looked at how well elderly patients, specifically those over 60, did after receiving the HeartMate II left ventricular assist device (LVAD) to help their hearts. Out of 107 older patients, about 69% survived six months after the device was implanted, but they also faced several complications, such as gastrointestinal bleeding in 34% and infections in nearly 22%. The findings show that older patients can gain significant benefits from this heart support device, suggesting that age should not limit their access to this treatment. Who this helps: Older patients with heart problems who may need mechanical support.

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The study looked at infections related to a specific heart pump, the Jarvik 2000, when the device’s power line exited the body from the lower rib area, known as a subcostal site. Out of 81 patients over nearly 14 years, there were only five minor infections linked to the pump, resulting in a very low infection rate of 0.002 infections per patient-year. This is important because it shows that using a subcostal exit site can effectively minimize infection risks, similar to previous findings with another exit site. Who this helps: This information benefits patients receiving heart pumps and the doctors who treat them.

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This study looked at 16 patients with severe heart failure who received a type of heart support device called a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD) along with a procedure to close a specific heart opening. The results showed that these patients had survival rates similar to 510 other patients who received the CF-LVAD without the closure, with 30-day survival rates of 81.3% for the LVOT-closure group compared to 90.4% for the CF-LVAD-only group. Importantly, there were no deaths related to the closure procedure, suggesting that it is a safe option for certain patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe aortic valve issues and heart failure who may need this type of support.

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This study focused on creating a new design for a small heart pump that helps blood flow from the left atrium to the arteries without requiring major surgery. Researchers found that by changing the pump's internal shape, they could improve its performance, making it work more efficiently, even at high speeds. Specifically, they discovered that using a smaller hub and a longer chord length could help the pump operate better, getting closer to the desired performance levels. Who this helps: This benefits patients with heart issues who may need assistance with blood circulation.

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This study looked at how changing the speed of a right ventricular assist device (RVAD) can create a more natural blood flow pattern, reducing risks like stiff blood vessels and strokes. By adjusting the pump's speed, researchers created an artificial pulse pressure in the lungs that fell within the healthy range of 9-15 mmHg while significantly lowering the heart's workload by over 44%. These findings show that making RVADs mimic natural heartbeats can improve patient outcomes and reduce complications. Who this helps: This helps heart failure patients using RVADs.

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Researchers studied a new intra-atrial pump (IAP) designed to help the left side of the heart work better in patients with early-stage heart failure. They tested two different designs for the pump blades and found that one design (with a steep pressure/flow curve) worked better than the other when the pump was inserted into the left atrium. This approach created a healthier blood flow environment, although it was not as effective as traditional methods that connect to the left ventricle. Who this helps: This benefits patients with early-stage heart failure.

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This study looked at a new device called an intra-atrial pump (IAP) designed to help people with early-stage heart failure by assisting their weak left ventricle. The researchers used a cow model to test the pump and found that it could safely create blood flow support of 1 to 3 liters per minute without harming surrounding heart tissue. This is important because it shows the pump can effectively improve blood circulation in living organisms, which may lead to better treatment options for heart failure patients. Who this helps: Patients with early-stage heart failure.

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This study looked at how well patients with a small left ventricle (a heart chamber) do after receiving a specific type of heart pump (called a left ventricular assist device, or LVAD). Researchers tracked 511 patients who received either the HeartMate II or HVAD devices. They found that after two years, 56.1% of patients with a small left ventricle who received the HeartMate II were alive, compared to 66.8% of those with a normal size left ventricle. For the HVAD, both groups had similar survival rates around 71%. This difference suggests that the kind of device chosen might impact survival for patients with a smaller heart. Who this helps: Patients with heart failure and a small left ventricle.

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This study examined how using short-term mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices before implanting long-term heart pumps (known as LVADs) affects patient outcomes. The researchers analyzed data from 526 heart failure patients, noting that survival rates at various time points (30 days to 2 years) were slightly lower for those who used short-term MCS compared to those who did not, but the differences were not statistically significant. Overall, the use of short-term MCS did not lead to worse survival outcomes, except for patients using a specific type of device called VA-ECMO, which had the lowest survival rates. Who this helps: This benefits heart failure patients needing long-term support and their doctors.

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Doctors implanted two artificial heart pumps—one on each side of the heart—in a 63-year-old woman whose heart was failing, keeping her alive for 262 days until she could receive a donor heart transplant. Both pumps worked reliably together without major complications, and the patient recovered well after the transplant and went home. This case shows that older, smaller patients who would have been considered too fragile for this treatment can actually survive with two artificial pumps while waiting for a transplant.

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This study focused on improving total artificial hearts (TAH) by using two rotary blood pumps (RBPs) with a new control system. The researchers found that their new adaptive starling-like controller (A-SLC) performed better than traditional controllers by effectively matching blood flow to the body's needs during different activities, reducing risks like fluid buildup in the lungs. This matters because it could lead to safer and more effective artificial hearts for patients who need them. Who this helps: Patients who rely on total artificial hearts.

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This study looked at a miniaturized heart pump for infants, called the Infant Jarvik 2015, by testing it on ten sheep. Overall, eight of the sheep had successful tests lasting up to 60 days with no significant issues, while two sheep died from unrelated causes. The pump showed good performance, increasing blood flow significantly without damaging red blood cells, which is important for ensuring safe and effective treatment for young patients with heart problems. Who this helps: This benefits infants with heart conditions and the doctors treating them.

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Researchers studied a new type of blood pump called the IntraVAD, which is designed to assist patients with heart issues by working alongside the heart to improve blood flow. They created an innovative system that allows the pump to change direction based on the heart's beating cycle, which helps increase blood delivery without causing wear and tear on its parts. The new design uses special magnetic technology to stabilize the pump's movement, making it more efficient and reliable. Who this helps: This benefits patients with heart failure who need additional support to maintain proper blood circulation.

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The study focused on a new heart device called the aVAD, designed to help patients with severe heart failure by assisting the heart's pumping function. When tested on a 61-year-old woman, the surgery went smoothly, and she was able to leave the hospital without any complications. This advancement is important because it offers a new treatment option for people suffering from severe heart issues. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe heart failure.

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This study looked at how to design a new heart pump that can be inserted through blood vessels with minimal invasiveness. Researchers created mathematical models of blood vessel pathways to figure out the maximum size of the pump that can safely fit through them. They found that if the pump is 10 mm wide, it can be up to 45 mm long when using the pathway from the femoral vein, but only 42 mm long from the internal jugular vein and just 21 mm from the subclavian vein. Who this helps: This benefits both patients needing heart support and doctors who perform the procedures.

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This study focused on improving the testing of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) by creating a more personalized model that mimics how individual patients' hearts function. Researchers developed a system that can simulate different levels of heart failure by adjusting specific curves related to heart pressure and volume, which successfully replicated how individual hearts behave under various conditions. This matters because it allows for better evaluation of LVADs before they are implanted, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients who need these devices. Who this helps: Patients with heart failure who may require a left ventricular assist device.

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This study looked at a patient with severe heart failure caused by a rare condition called eosinophilic myocarditis, which can lead to serious disruptions in heart function. The patient was successfully treated with a total artificial heart while waiting for a heart transplant. This is important because it shows that a total artificial heart can be a lifesaving option for patients with this specific type of heart failure. Who this helps: This helps patients with eosinophilic myocarditis and severe heart failure.

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Doctors implanted two different types of mechanical heart pumps in a single patient—one model on the left side of the heart and a different model on the right side—to keep both sides pumping properly. The patient survived and left the hospital, proving that mismatched pumps can work together long-term despite the added complexity. This challenges the old medical thinking that both pumps had to be identical, opening up new treatment options for patients with severe heart failure affecting both sides of the heart.

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Researchers discovered that six patients with mechanical heart pump devices (which continuously push blood without creating a pulse) developed a dangerous heart rhythm called ventricular fibrillation but remained conscious, alert, and stable without treatment. This happened because the continuous-flow pump was doing the heart's job so effectively that the heart's irregular beating didn't cause a medical crisis. This finding matters because it suggests doctors may need to rethink when and how to treat this heart rhythm in patients with these devices, since the standard emergency treatment (electric shock) might not be necessary.

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This study looked at how changing the speed of a rotary blood pump in an artificial heart could create a more natural pulse-like blood flow. Six different speed settings were tested, revealing that while changing the speed could improve certain aspects of blood flow, there was a trade-off between energy and how much the flow varied. These findings are important because a more natural blood flow could reduce serious complications, like bleeding or blood clots, in patients with artificial hearts. Who this helps: This benefits patients with total artificial hearts.

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This study looked at a new heart pump called the EVAD-P, which can help support a person's heart for a longer time. Researchers tested the pump on 14 healthy sheep and found that it was safe and effective for up to 93 days, with two of the sheep showing no problems while using the device. This matters because a reliable and affordable heart pump could significantly improve care for patients with heart failure or related conditions. Who this helps: Patients with heart failure who need long-term heart support.

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Researchers tested whether surgeons wearing a camera (Google Glass) during organ transplant recovery could stream live video to distant team members, allowing them to help assess whether organs were healthy enough to use. The experiment worked perfectly—the remote team watched four lung recoveries in real-time, confirmed the organs were good quality, and all four were successfully transplanted without any problems. This matters because it means hospitals can now have their best experts evaluate donated organs remotely, catching potential problems immediately and making transplants safer and more efficient.

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Doctors studied 27 patients who had mechanical heart pumps (devices that help failing hearts pump blood) successfully removed after their hearts recovered enough to work on their own. The researchers compared four different surgical techniques for removing these pumps, ranging from taking out the entire device to just disconnecting it while leaving parts behind. All four surgical approaches produced similar results—patients survived equally well regardless of which removal method was used, and complication rates like strokes and the need for follow-up surgery were the same across all groups. This matters because it shows doctors have flexibility in how they remove these devices without affecting patient outcomes, so they can choose the approach that makes sense for each individual patient's situation.

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This study focused on a new method for creating arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) for patients needing hemodialysis, using a less invasive technique instead of traditional surgery. Out of 33 patients, 32 had successful fistula creation, and 24 of the 27 followed for six months were able to use their pAVFs for dialysis, resulting in a 96.2% success rate for maintaining the fistulas within that time. This matters because it offers a more effective way for patients to receive dialysis compared to older surgical methods. Who this helps: Patients with kidney failure needing hemodialysis.

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This study looked at a new surgical sealant called PreveLeak used in heart surgeries to prevent bleeding from suture lines. It was tested on 44 patients undergoing 63 procedures and successfully sealed 98.4% of the treated sites, with significant complications occurring in only a small number of cases (nine out of 71 total adverse events). These results are important because they show that PreveLeak can effectively reduce bleeding risks in heart surgery, which is critical for patient recovery. Who this helps: This study benefits patients undergoing heart surgery.

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This paper reviews the history and progress of total artificial hearts, devices designed to replace the function of a failing human heart. Over the years, early models struggled with size and durability, affecting patients' quality of life, while later advancements in left ventricular assist devices have shown moderate success in improving heart function. The study emphasizes the need for further research to refine these technologies to better support patients with heart disease, as the overall demand for heart transplants far exceeds supply. Who this helps: This helps patients with severe heart disease who need alternatives to heart transplants.

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Researchers studied the effects of two types of artificial heart pumps on calf muscle tissue after heart replacement surgery. They found that whether the pumps produced a pulsing blood flow or not, there were no significant changes in muscle water content or structure over two weeks. This is important because it suggests that both types of heart pumps are safe for the blood vessels and muscle tissue in the short term. Who this helps: Patients needing heart replacement therapy.

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This study looked at a problem called retained blood syndrome, which happens when blood isn't properly drained after heart surgery. Researchers found that between 13.8% and 22.7% of patients experience issues related to this syndrome, leading to complications like irregular heartbeats and infections, which can result in longer hospital stays. Improving how blood is drained during recovery can help prevent these problems, improving outcomes for patients. Who this helps: Patients recovering from heart surgery.

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This study looks at two treatments for severe heart failure: heart transplantation and mechanical circulatory support (MCS). It found that while heart transplants have been successful for over 30 years, there's a shortage of donors, and many patients who receive transplants do not survive long-term. MCS offers a promising alternative that could provide longer-lasting support for patients with end-stage heart failure. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severe heart failure who may not be able to get a heart transplant.

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This study looked at the use of special heart devices called continuous-flow ventricular assist devices (CF-VADs) in patients with severe heart failure. Researchers found that out of 469 patients with these devices, 14% needed to have their devices replaced due to problems like blood issues or infections. The good news is that the survival rates for patients who had their devices exchanged were similar to those who did not need an exchange, showing that replacing these devices when needed is safe and can help prolong patient support. Who this helps: Patients with end-stage heart failure who rely on these devices.

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Researchers studied 30 heart failure patients who were using artificial heart pump devices (LVADs) to see if their own hearts could recover enough to remove the devices and avoid transplants. They found that 27 patients' hearts did recover after gradual weaning off the devices, with most surviving years afterward without needing a transplant or device, though a few had complications. This matters because it shows that young heart failure patients shouldn't automatically be written off for transplants—their own hearts can sometimes heal and function on their own again after long-term mechanical support, potentially saving them from lifelong transplant medications and complications.

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This study looked at the use of sealed grafts in a type of heart pump called the HeartMate II to reduce bleeding during and after surgery. Researchers found that patients using sealed grafts needed fewer blood transfusions—averaging 4.9 units compared to 8.0 for those with non-sealed grafts. Additionally, none of the patients with sealed grafts experienced infections or strokes, while the other group did see some complications. This means that using sealed grafts could lead to safer surgeries with better recovery for heart patients. Who this helps: Heart surgery patients who need left ventricular assist devices.

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This paper looks at how mechanical support devices can help people with severe heart disease. The study finds that these devices can significantly improve the health of patients who otherwise have little hope, with advancements showing promise for even better outcomes in the future. For instance, new smaller devices and fully implantable systems could make treatment easier and more effective. Who this helps: This benefits patients with advanced heart disease who need additional support for their failing hearts.

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This study developed a new testing system called a hybrid mock circulation loop (HMCL) to evaluate total artificial hearts that use rotary pumps. The HMCL allows researchers to simulate and control various aspects of blood flow and pressure in real time, making it easier to test and improve these artificial hearts. Experimental results showed that this system can support stable and flexible performance across a wide range of conditions, which is crucial for ensuring these devices work effectively for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients needing heart transplants by improving the design and testing of artificial hearts.

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This study explores how the BiVACOR Total Artificial Heart (TAH) can create a normal heartbeat by delivering blood in a pulsating manner, which mimics how a healthy heart operates. Researchers tested different ways to control the pump's speed and found that the TAH effectively mimicked a natural pulse, though specific numbers aren't provided in the summary. This is important because a heart that beats more like a natural one could improve blood flow and overall health for patients who rely on artificial hearts. Who this helps: Patients with heart failure who need a heart replacement.

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Researchers built a model that simulates how blood flows in the body to help design and test total artificial hearts. This model includes special features to mimic real-life conditions like exercise and changes in body position. They used two types of artificial hearts and collected pressure and flow information to better understand how these devices perform. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing heart transplants and doctors working on artificial heart technology.

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Researchers studied the outcomes of patients with severe liver problems who received a HeartMate II left ventricular assist device (LVAD) to support their hearts. Out of 338 patients, 23 had advanced liver dysfunction, and while three died shortly after surgery, the 20 survivors showed impressive improvements: liver enzyme levels dropped significantly, and liver function improved overall. This is important because it shows that the LVAD can help these patients improve their health enough to be considered for heart transplants. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart disease and severe liver dysfunction.