航天技术融入医学体系，国产自主研发“儿童型人工双心”手术成功
Guan Cha Zhe Wang·2025-12-13 04:13

Core Insights - The successful treatment of a child with restrictive cardiomyopathy using a "dual artificial heart implantation + heart transplant" marks a significant breakthrough in China's pediatric end-stage heart failure treatment and domestic artificial heart application [2] - This operation is the lightest successful case globally in similar surgeries, showcasing over a decade of technological accumulation and integration in China's artificial heart industry [2] Market Overview - The global ventricular assist device market is projected to reach approximately $2.2 billion in 2024 and $2.5 billion by 2025 [2] - The Chinese market, although starting later, is experiencing rapid growth, with an expected market size of 33.2 million yuan for implantable ventricular assist devices in 2024 [2] - Multiple domestic companies have received approval for market entry, and Beijing has included artificial hearts in Class A medical insurance reimbursement as of September 2024, with nationwide implementation expected by March 2025 [2] Technological Advancements - The innovative approach taken by Tianjin TEDA International Cardiovascular Hospital and Aerospace TaiXin Technology involves a second-generation magnetic levitation artificial heart, which enhances reliability by eliminating electronic systems that could fail [5][6] - The design modifications for the artificial heart to accommodate the child's small heart chamber included reducing the thickness from 25 mm to 11 mm and the overall weight to below 75 grams, representing a significant engineering breakthrough for pediatric usability [6] Unique Treatment Approach - The surgery also filled a global gap by introducing a dedicated right heart pump, allowing for a dual heart system in pediatric patients, which previously had limited options and often relied on heart transplants [7] - This transition from external dependency to fully implanted systems significantly reduces infection risks and enhances patient mobility, redefining the quality of life for patients [7]