Can we live without a heart?

As a medical professional with a background in cardiology, I can provide some insight into the question of whether humans can live without a heart. The case of Jakub Halik is indeed remarkable and highlights the advancements in medical technology. However, it's important to clarify that he did not live without a heart in the traditional sense. Instead, he was supported by a mechanical device known as a ventricular assist device (VAD). A VAD is a mechanical pump that helps to circulate blood through the body, effectively taking over the function of the heart's ventricles. While a VAD can sustain life in the absence of a natural heart, it is not a permanent solution. These devices are typically used as a bridge to transplantation, meaning they are a temporary measure until a donor heart becomes available. Living without a natural heart for an extended period is not common and comes with significant risks, including infection, device malfunction, and other complications. In summary, while it is theoretically possible to live without a natural heart for a time with the aid of a VAD, it is not a sustainable long-term solution. The human body is designed to function with a natural heart, and without one, the body's ability to circulate blood and maintain life is severely compromised.

A 37-year-old man from Czech Republic recently became the first man to live without a heart for six months. Jakub Halik, a former firefighter lived without a pulse for six months after undergoing pioneering surgery in April when doctors removed his heart and replaced it with mechanical pumps, according to The Sun.