UPMC Clinical Artificial Heart Program
Since its founding in 1985, the UPMC Clinical Artificial Heart Program has become one of the most active mechanical circulatory assist centers in the United States, supporting nearly 250 patients on various devices. Among many other milestones, in 1990 UPMC became the first medical center in the world to discharge a patient from the hospital while still supported by a ventricular assist device.
Under the direction of Robert L. Kormos, MD, who also serves as medical director of the McGowan Institute, an experienced team of cardiac surgeons, cardiologists, clinical nurses, and bioengeineers selects and manages patients for this ever-evolving program. In all, the program team has achieved a total patient support duration of over 50 years, making it one of the most experienced such teams in the world.