Scandinavian Real Heart

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in Sweden, and tens of millions of people globally suffer from heart failure. In the three-part documentary series, SVT science journalist and presenter Victoria Dyring shares her personal story of living with a congenital heart valve defect and the life-changing open-heart surgery that ultimately becomes unavoidable. The series provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at Swedish cardiac care, the existential realities of heart disease, and the medical advances that save lives every day.

The documentary features an interview with Dr. Azad Najar, founder and inventor of Realheart® TAH, who shares his personal journey and the motivation that drove him to dedicate over two decades to developing a better treatment for heart failure patients. Additionally, a prototype of Realheart® TAH is showcased in the documentary, illustrating the innovative four-chamber design that mimics the structure and function of the natural human heart.

Further, the series features Professor Göran Dellgren, Chief Physician at the Transplantation Center and Thorax Clinic at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, and Realheart’s clinical research collaborator, as he is followed in his daily work behind the scenes. Viewers gain insight into the challenges he faces as a heart surgeon – including heart transplantation procedures – and hear him describe the role of mechanical heart pump therapy for patients with severe heart failure.

“Realheart® TAH is the only total artificial heart device in the world that mimics the structure and physiology of the natural human heart. We are very proud that our long-standing clinical collaborator Professor Dellgren’s vital work in cardiac care and our founder Azad Najar’s inspiring innovation journey are part of this important documentary. The series provides a powerful platform to raise awareness about the challenges facing heart failure patients and the urgent need for new treatment options,” says Ina Laura Perkins, CEO, Realheart.

The documentary is available for public viewing* on SVT Play from April 9, 2026.

* The documentary can only be viewed in Sweden.