B4.4 Helping the heart

Question 1

How do leaky valves happen?

Answer 1

Valves have to withstand a lot of pressure - over time they may start to leak or become stiff and not open fully - causing people to become breathless and eventually die

Question 2

What can be done to treat leaky valves?

Answer 2

Mechanical valves can replace faulty valves and they are made up of titanium and polymers - last a very long time

Biological valves based on animals or human donors can replace faulty valves - work extremely well and the patient doesn’t need any medication

Question 3

What are the problems with mechanical valves?

Answer 3

Need to take drugs for the rest of your life to prevent blood clotting around it

Question 4

What are the problems with biological valves?

Answer 4

Only last about 12-15 years

Question 5

Where is your natural pacemaker found?

Answer 5

In the right atrium which is controlled by a group of cells

Question 6

What are the problems if the natural pacemaker doesn’t function as intended?

Answer 6

If the heart beats too slowly - the person will not get enough oxygen
If the heart beats too fast - it cannot pump blood properly

Question 7

How can you solve problems with the rhythm of your heart?

Answer 7

Using an artificial pacemaker

Question 8

What does the artificial pacemaker do?

Answer 8

Sends strong regular electrical signals to your heart that stimulate it to beat properly

Question 9

What can an artificial heart do?

Answer 9

Can help replace a heart that has failed completely