| Vital
Engineering currently is studying the effects of using VADs as
long-term support (destination therapy). Additionally, using non-invasive
quantitative echocardiography, the Vital Engineering team now is
attempting to determine if a VAD patient's own heart has recovered
with the goal of eventual weaning -- thereby eliminating the need
for a transplant. A pioneer in this growing field, Vital Engineering
is continually exploring what was once considered the outer limits
and works closely with other experts in the field to further expand
the science of mechanical circulatory support.
A program
of University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
Historically, UPMC has
been one of the nation's most active centers for solid organ transplantation,
ranging from livers and kidneys to hearts. Today, UPMC is possibly
the only center in the country that combines VAD technology use
with the high level of specialized bioengineering support critical
to successful artificial organ implantation.
 
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