4.4 Helping The Heart Flashcards
What causes leaky valves in the heart?
Heart valves become stiff or do not open fully making the heart less efficient.
What are the two types of heart valve replacements?
Mechanical valves and biological valves (from animals like pigs or cattle).
How long do biological heart valves typically last?
About 12–15 years.
What is an artificial pacemaker used for?
It corrects irregularities in heart rhythm by sending electrical impulses to stimulate the heart to beat properly.
Where is the natural pacemaker of the heart located?
In the right atrium.
What is the average resting heart rate controlled by the natural pacemaker?
Around 70 beats per minute.
What can happen if the heart beats too slowly?
The person will not get enough oxygen leading to potential collapse.
How much do artificial pacemakers weigh?
Between 20 and 50 grams.
How do modern pacemakers adjust the heart rate during exercise?
They can sense body needs and stimulate the heart to beat faster.
What does an artificial heart do?
It keeps the heart beating to maintain blood circulation while a person waits for a heart transplant or for their own heart to rest.
Why might a patient need an artificial heart?
Their heart may fail or they may be waiting for a heart transplant.
What is a risk associated with artificial hearts?
Blood clotting which can lead to strokes.
What was special about the first UK patient to receive an artificial heart?
Matthew Green went home with an artificial heart in a backpack before receiving a transplant.
What is one challenge with using artificial hearts?
They are expensive and resources are needed to develop them.
What are two ways in which artificial hearts are used?
To replace a failing heart or to give a diseased heart time to rest.
