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This report summarizes the results of the in vitro evaluation of Soviet and American artificial hearts. The devices were tested at the All-Union Institute of Transplantation and Artificial Organs, Moscow, U.S.S.R., and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, U.S.A. These studies were designed to standardize procedures to allow comparison of artificial ventricles of different designs. Also, these studies might provide a means for evaluation of other characteristics such as hemolysis, durability, and reliability. Static and dynamic tests were performed, varying preload, afterload, rate, and systolic and diastolic time intervals. All designs demonstrated comparable function curves with capability of taking over the pressure and volume work of the natural heart.

The U.S.S.R. and United States have cooperated on artificial heart research and development since 1974. The exchange of information and developmental models of the artificial heart continued in the years 1981-1984. Soviet and American scientists also continued to meet regularly on specific projects relating to a variety of activities, including the testing of different heart models and biomaterials and experiments with implantation. Three symposia have been held to share research results and identify additional research problems. Joint collaboration has been both expedient and effective and has accelerated research in this area.

The development of outfits for ancillary circulation is oriented towards improvement and construction of new pneumatic, hydraulic and electromechanical actuating systems--units intended for an optimal disposition of pressure waves moving from the pump to the aorta, etc. An inference is drawn about advantages and perspectives offered by functionally monitored actuating units, as well as about the need for the pulsating stream to pass through the low-power side intended to pre-set the shape of the pressure curve.