A robotic heart is essentially micro-machinery, often built directly into the organ itself, designed to support normal heart function without the need for blood thinners. This assistance comes from soft polymers that minimize irritation or puncture to the surrounding tissue.
In more detail:
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Support for Normal Function: Unlike complete artificial hearts, robotic hearts are often designed to assist the existing heart rather than replace it entirely. This is particularly important in cases of heart failure or other conditions where the heart is weakened but still functional.
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Minimization of Blood Thinners: Traditional artificial hearts often require patients to take blood thinners to prevent clotting on the artificial surfaces. Robotic hearts, through advanced materials and design, aim to reduce or eliminate this need.
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Soft Polymers and Biocompatibility: The use of soft polymers is critical. These materials are less likely to cause damage or rejection by the body compared to traditional hard materials used in medical implants. Their flexibility also allows them to conform to the natural movement of the heart.
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Micro-Machinery: Robotic hearts utilize miniaturized mechanical components to achieve their function. This allows for precise control and minimal invasiveness during implantation.
In summary, a robotic heart represents an advanced approach to cardiac assistance, focusing on biocompatibility, minimizing complications, and supporting the heart's natural function using sophisticated micro-machinery and materials science.
