An Australian man has set a new world record by living over 100 days with an artificial titanium heart before receiving a donor transplant.
The patient, in his 40s from New South Wales, had the BiVACOR Total Artificial Heart (TAH) implanted at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney on November 22, 2024. He became the first person globally to leave a hospital with this type of artificial heart.
Developed by Australian engineer Dr. Daniel Timms, the BiVACOR heart uses magnets to keep its single moving part—a rotor—in place, reducing wear and tear.
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Made from titanium, it pumps blood throughout the body and lungs and has been hailed as a major breakthrough.
Dr. Timms explained: “This technology eliminates the need for valves or mechanical bearings, which are prone to wear and tear.”
More than 23 million people suffer from heart failure worldwide each year, but only around 6,000 receive donor hearts annually.
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The man lived independently with the artificial heart for over three months, setting a new survival record. Previous tests in the United States saw patients supported but for much shorter periods.
Surgeon Dr. Paul Jansz said: “The patient’s successful journey with this artificial heart proves its potential to become a long-term solution for heart failure.”
The BiVACOR artificial heart is still undergoing clinical trials and awaits approval but promises hope for millions affected by heart failure.
