B2- More On Cardiovascular Disease

Question 1

What is the primary function of an artificial heart?

Answer 1

To pump blood for a person whose own heart has failed

Artificial hearts are typically used as a temporary solution while waiting for a donor heart or for recovery.

Question 2

When are artificial hearts used as a permanent fix?

Answer 2

When a donor heart is not available or to reduce the need for one

In some cases, artificial hearts can serve long-term needs.

Question 3

What is the main advantage of artificial hearts over donor hearts?

Answer 3

Less likely to be rejected by the body’s immune system

This is due to their construction from metals or plastics.

Question 4

What are the potential risks associated with surgery to fit an artificial heart?

Answer 4

Bleeding and infection

As with any major surgery, these complications may arise.

Question 5

What complications can arise from artificial hearts during blood circulation?

Answer 5

Blood clots and strokes

Blood does not flow as smoothly through artificial hearts.

Question 6

What can cause damage to the heart valves?

Answer 6

Heart attacks, infection, or old age

These factors can weaken or damage valve tissue.

Question 7

What are the two types of replacement valves?

Answer 7

Biological and mechanical valves

Biological valves can come from humans or other mammals, while mechanical valves are man-made.

Question 8

What is the procedure for replacing a faulty heart valve compared to a heart transplant?

Answer 8

Less drastic procedure

Valve replacement is significant but not as extensive as a full heart transplant.

Question 9

What is artificial blood used for?

Answer 9

To replace lost blood volume in emergencies

It can keep a person alive even if they lose a significant amount of red blood cells.

Question 10

What is a common example of artificial blood?

Answer 10

Saline solution

Saline can be used as a blood substitute to maintain blood volume.

Question 11

What do scientists aim to achieve with artificial blood products?

Answer 11

To replace the function of lost red blood cells

This would eliminate the need for blood transfusions.

Question 12

True or False: Artificial hearts can completely replicate the function of a healthy heart.

Answer 12

False

Artificial hearts may not function as well as natural hearts.

Question 13

Fill in the blank: Artificial blood can keep you alive even if you lose _____ of your red blood cells.

Answer 13

⅖

This amount of blood loss is critical but can be managed with artificial blood.