[Thermodynamic principles and physiologic criteria for the use of heat engines to drive the ventricles of an artificial heart]. / Termodinamicheskie osnovy i fiziologicheskie kriterii primenimosti teplovykh dvigatelei dlia privoda zheludochkov iskusstvennogo serdtsa.

The authors review the thermodynamic bases and physiological limitations of the applicability of thermal engines for driving artificial heart ventricles. Show that the thermodynamic characteristics of Stirling and Brighton cycles do not make it possible to effectively use cycle-based engines in the artificial heart. A steam engine operating in accordance with the Rankine cycle may be regarded as an optimum type engine for that purpose. Demonstrate that according to the rules of physiology, use should be made of a separate driving of artificial heart ventricles by two independently operating steam engines. Provide the characteristics of the Soviet artificial heart "MIKRON" acceptable for implantation into the orthotopic position.