Even though the total artificial heart is able to improve the quality of life of its patients, there is a vast room for improvements.  Abiomed has recently announced it is currently developing the next generation replacement heart called the Abiocor II.  The device is currently in pre-clinical trials.  What is different about the second generation device is it will be available to women, whereas the Abiocor I was only able to be fitted for men.  Abiomed is also trying to increase the life of the replacement heart, where it can have a life expectancy of five years.

                Recently, a new company called Carmat along with Dr. Alain Carpentier have announced they have developed a new total artificial heart which will be able to undergo clinical trials in 2011 and will be ready for transplant in 2013.  What is very unique with this system is it incorporates the use of chemically treated animal tissue to serve as its biomaterial.  This will serve to reduce rejection by the immune system and blood clotting. What is also a breakthrough with the new device is it will be programmed with software and sensors where to will be able to adjust itself depending on the activity of the patient. The software will also be able to be remotely monitored and controlled.