Creating an artificial or mechanical heart is an extraordinary challenge because it needs to replicate the complex functions of the natural human heart, which is a highly sophisticated and robust organ. A mechanical heart must be capable of responding to the body's varying needs for oxygen and nutrients, which can change from moment to moment based on activity levels, emotional states, and overall health conditions.

While we have made significant strides in artificial heart technology, there are still several hurdles to overcome. One of the significant challenges is biocompatibility. As discussed earlier, introducing any "foreign" device into the body risks infection or rejection. This issue is more pronounced with a mechanical heart because it replaces a major organ and is in constant contact with the blood, presenting opportunities for clot formation. Blood clots can block blood vessels, leading to stroke or other life-threatening conditions.

Another complication arises from the mechanical heart's continuous operation. The human heart has a natural rhythm and variability in its rate, which is thought to be beneficial for vascular health. Mechanical hearts pump continuously, which could lead to unforeseen long-term health implications.

Mechanical seals and moving parts in the heart are also subject to wear and tear, which could result in device failure over time. Mechanical hearts also require an external power source, and managing this presents its own set of complications, from infection risk at the power lead's exit site to the inconvenience and psychological impact on the patient.

Despite these challenges, it's not entirely impossible to make a mechanical heart that can function for a long period, such as 10 years or more. Research and development are ongoing, and improvements in materials science, bioengineering, and immunosuppressive therapies may eventually make this a reality. 

In the interim, mechanical hearts are primarily used as a bridge to transplantation. They can support patients with severe heart failure while they wait for a suitable donor heart to become available. The ultimate goal, of course, would be a mechanical heart that can function indefinitely, but we are still some way from achieving this.
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