Public Lecture on Cardiovascular Engineering, and Its Future by Professor Dr. Tansley, Griffith University

Content of Lecture:
Heart failure (HF) is one of the main cause of death in the world. Lifestyle adjustment and pharmacological drug are normally the mode of treatment once the patient is diagnosed. However, for some cohort of patients, an alternative treatment for heart failure is by using mechanical devices, usually known as heart assist device. Depending on its usage, heart assist device may be called ventricular assist device (VAD) for ventricle (left or right, or both). There are also other types of mechanical heart assist device such as the Total Artificial Heart (TAH). There are several types of VADs or TAH depending on usage; whether for support while waiting for transplantation, supporting self healing of the heart, or as a permanent implantation.

All those mechanical devices are the specialization of Cardiovascular Engineering, which is a multidisciplinary research of mechanical engineering, electrical & electronic engineering, material engineering, biotechnology, and medical practice. In this lecture, the current trend of cardiovascular engineering especially on ventricular assist device (VAD) will be discussed. Prof. Tansley will also talk about his experience while being the Chief Mechanical Engineer at Ventracor and his current research interest. The future of cardiovascular engineering will also be discussed after elaborating on available technology at present time.