Maglev Artificial Heart
The Maglev (Magnetic Levitation) artificial heart represents the pinnacle of mechanical circulatory support. By using magnetic fields to suspend the pump's internal rotor, this technology eliminates mechanical friction and wear, which is the key to creating a device that can reliably support human life for many years.
Traditional artificial hearts and pumps use mechanical bearings, which can damage blood cells and are prone to mechanical failure over time. In a Maglev system, the rotor "floats" in a magnetic field, allowing blood to flow freely through the device with minimal trauma. This significantly reduces the risk of blood clots and the need for high-dose blood-thinning medications.
In 2026, these devices are increasingly used as a "destination therapy"—a permanent replacement for patients who are not candidates for a heart transplant. The systems are designed to be "pulsatile," meaning they can mimic the natural rhythm and variable flow of a biological heart, responding to the patient's activity levels and physiological needs.
A major area of development is the transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) system, which allows the device to be powered through the skin via induction, eliminating the need for a "driveline" wire to exit the body. This significantly reduces the risk of infection, which is the leading complication for artificial heart patients. By providing a durable, frictionless solution, the Maglev artificial heart offers a new lease on life for those with end-stage cardiac failure.