The Artificial Heart (An Impact Book)

Berger, Melvin

ISBN 10: 0531104095 ISBN 13: 9780531104095

Publisher: Franklin Watts, 1987

Synopsis

Takes a close-up look at the controversies surrounding the development and use of the permanent artificial heart as a means to prolong life, analyzing the ethical, legal, psychological, economic, and historical issues involved and discussing the function and diseases of the heart

About this title

From School Library Journal:

Grade 5-8 A well-written, comprehensive overview of the development of the artificial heart, with a look at current uses and bioethical dilemmas. Much space is devoted to Barney Clark's experience, as well as to examinations of several other cases. An early chapter is devoted to the anatomy of the healthy heart, emphasized by detailed black-and-white drawings and diagrams. The history of the heart transplant procedure is presented, followed by a review of the development of various artificial apparatus. The practice of using an artificial heart as a bridge to transplant is considered, including the ethical issues that are raised by the circumstance. Quality of life, research vs. therapy, costs, and informed consent are all examined. Finally, psychological considerations and legal issues are raised, questions that must be answered even as transplants are taking place. Good black-and-white photos of the pioneering doctors, patients, and devices are scattered throughout, accompanied by a couple of political cartoons. There is a great deal of information here, and much food for thought, presented in a clear, appropriate manner. Although it is similar to other recent publications on artificial organs, because this one deals specifically with the heart, it is well worth considering. Denise L. Moll, Lone Pine Elementary School, West Bloomfield, Mich.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Franklin Watts
• Publication date: 1987
• ISBN 10: 0531104095
• ISBN 13: 9780531104095
• Binding: Library Binding
• Number of pages: 128
• Illustrator: Green Anne Canevari