DEVICE FOR THE SUPPORT OF THE BLUTKREISLAUFES

INTRAAORTALER BALLOON AGAINST PULSE WITH SIMULTANEOUS HYPOTHERMIA

IMPLANTIERBARES SYSTEM FOR HEART SUPPORT

DEVICE FOR THE ANALYSIS OF THE DEGREE OF THE FABRIC DAMAGE IN A HEART THE INSUFFICIENT ARTERIAL ONE BLUTSTRÖMUNG SUSPENDED.

INTRA AORTALER BALLOON CATHETER WITH ULTRAFEINER BALLOON DIAPHRAGM MANUFACTURED BY STRETCH-BLOW FORMING AND ITS MANUFACTURING PROCESSES

WITH CLOSED THORAX ATTACHMENT, ON A INTRAAORTALEN BALLOON BASING HEART SUPPORT DEVICE

Cardiac treatment system and method

Devices and methods for providing localized pressure to a region of a patient's heart to improve heart functioning, including: (a) a jacket made of a flexible biocompatible material, the jacket having an open top end that is received around the heart and a bottom portion that is received around the apex of the heart; and (b) at least one inflatable bladder disposed on an interior surface of the jacket, the inflatable bladder having an inelastic outer surface positioned adjacent to the jacket and an elastic inner surface such that inflation of the bladder causes the bladder to deform substantially inwardly to exert localized pressure against a region of the heart.

INTRA-AORTIC BALLOON PUMP AND DRIVER

MUSCLE CONTROL AND MONITORING SYSTEM

... 2120617 9308874 PCTABS00021 Apparatus and method for monitoring the performance of skeletal muscle used in a skeletal muscle powered cardiac assist system. The longest term monitoring is performed by an oxygen sensor which determines the adequacy of circulatory support to the skeletal muscle. An adequately supported skeletal muscle can offer the desired cardiac assistance chronically. Insufficient support indicates that the skeletal muscle will easily fatigue if adequate vascularization is not achieved. If the circulatory support is chronically insufficient, the risk of ischemia becomes high and additional surgical intervention may be required. A somewhat shorter term concern is the adequacy of the conditioning needed to render a fast twitch skeletal muscle useful in assisting the slow twitch myocardium. A pressure transducer is used to measure conditioning sufficiency. A third type of monitoring provides an indication of changes in cardiac requirements utilizing an activity sensor. This ...

CARDIAC ASSIST APPARATUS

... 2127981 9314734 PCTABS00024 Regulators (12) for improved cardiac assist systems of the type including skeletal muscle powered fluid pressure means (14, 18), a cardiac cup (11) and/or an aortic balloon pump (16). The regulators (12) convert the positive pressures generated by contracting muscle (20, 22) into both positive and negative pressures useful in the systems.

OCCLUDER DEVICE AND METHOD OF MAKING

The present invention pertains to a circulatory system (10), such as a circulatory assist system for a patient (12). The system comprises a blood pump having tubing fluidically communicating with a person's blood vessel. The blood pump (14) can be, for instance, a centrifugal blood pump but is not limited thereto. The system also comprises an occluder device (16) for controlling flow of the blood pump. The occluder device is in contact with the tubing of the blood pump. The occluder device can be incorporated into anti-kink sheath over the outlet graft tubing of the blood pump. Preferably, the system comprises control means for actuating the occluder device when the blood pump malfunctions.

For ventricular assist device to the skin interface

BALLOON CATHETER FOR PUMPING INTO THE AORTA.

Balloon catheter for pumping into the aorta.

APPARATUS FACILITATING AND IMPROVING BLOOD CIRCULATION

Catheter for recycling arterial blood to treat infarction - of material with elastic memory e.g. PVC and cranked to facilitate insertion

BIOMECHANICAL HEART HAS DIASTOLIC COUNTERPULSATION EXTRA-AORTIQUE

대동맥 내 풍선 펌프 및 구동체

... 대동맥 내 풍선 펌프를 주입하는, 위치시키는, 제거하는, 교체하는 그리고 작동시키는 장치 및 방법이 개시된다.

IMPLANTABLE DEVICE FOR UTILISATION OF THE HYDRAULIC ENERGY OF THE HEART

L'invention concerne un dispositif pouvant être implanté dans un organisme vivant, destiné à utiliser au moins une partie de l'énergie hydraulique générée par le coeur (10) l'unité primaire durant les phases naturelles de travail, lorsque les cavités du coeur (11, 12 and 16, 17) se remplissent de sang. Le dispositif comprend au moins une unité secondaire (24), qui peut être connectée au système cardiovasculaire de l'organisme et qui est conçue pour utiliser ladite énergie hydraulique. L'unité secondaire est représentée par au moins un moteur hydraulique (24a) conçu pour transférer l'énergie hydraulique à un organe de transfert (28). Ledit organe (28) est élaboré pour influencer au moins une unité tertiaire, par exemple un dispositif d'exécution (29), qui est construit en vue de convertir l'énergie transférée en une forme différente d'énergie, dans le but d'influencer certaines fonctions définies à l'intérieur de l'organisme. Un dispositif de régulation (30) est élaboré pour commander des ...

OCCLUDER DEVICE AND METHOD OF MAKING

The present invention pertains to a circulatory system (10), such as a circulatory assist system for a patient (12). The system comprises a blood pump having tubing fluidically communicating with a person's blood vessel. The blood pump (14) can be, for instance, a centrifugal blood pump but is not limited thereto. The system also comprises an occluder device (16) for controlling flow of the blood pump. The occluder device is in contact with the tubing of the blood pump. The occluder device can be incorporated into anti-kink sheath over the outlet graft tubing of the blood pump. Preferably, the system comprises control means for actuating the occluder device when the blood pump malfunctions.

AUXILIARY VENTRICLE

Implantable heart assist system and method of applying same

A method for further reducing the load on a heart suffering (ventricular size maintenance) from congestive heart failure comprising the application of a subcardiac pump having inflow and outflow conduits configured to fluidly connect to non-primary vessels in such a manner as to reduce the load on and/or the size of the heart prior to applying a device intended to reduce the stress on a wall of the ailing heart.

IMPLANTABLE HEART ASSIST SYSTEM

An extracardiac pumping for supplementing the circulation of blood, including the cardiac output, in a patient without any component thereof being connected to the patient's heart, and methods of using same are disclosed. One embodiment of the intravascular extracardiac system (10) comprises a pump (32) with inflow (50) and outflow (52) conduits that are sized and configured to be implantable intravascularly through a non-primary vessel, whereby it may positioned where desired within the patient's vasculature. The system comprises a subcardiac pump that may be driven directly or electromagnetically from within or without the patient. The pump is configured to be operated continuously or in a pulsatile fashion, synchronous with the patient's heart, thereby potentially reducing the afterload of the heart. In another embodiment, the system is positioned extracorporeally, with the inflow conduit and outflow conduit applied percutaneously to a non-primary vessel for circulating blood to and ...

СПОСОБ ИСКУССТВЕННОЙ ПЕРЕКАЧКИ ФИЗИОЛОГИЧЕСКОЙ ЖИДКОСТИ

Изобретение относится к кардиологии и может быть использовано для перекачивания крови. Способ осуществляется с помощью насоса, в котором используют волнообразное движение текучей среды в замкнутом объеме, создаваемое сжатием и растяжением пьезоэлементов путем подачи переменного трехфазного возбуждающего напряжения. Насос состоит из трех последовательно соединенных пьезоэлектрических нагнетательных модулей, содержащих внутренние и внешние каналы для текучей среды и перекачиваемой крови. Внешние каналы пьезоэлектрических нагнетательных модулей соединяют между собой, а внутренние каналы соединяют последовательно. Насос чрескожно вводят в артериальный сосуд и продвигают в грудную аорту. Кровообращение поддерживают путем подачи питания на пьезоэлементы. Технический результат заключается в повышении производительности насоса, снижении габаритных размеров и веса. 3 з.п. ф-лы, 9 ил.

IMPLANTIERBARES HEART SUPPORT SYSTEM

INTRAAORTI BALLOON GEGENPULSATION WITH SIMULTANEOUS HYPOTHERMIA

ANDOCKSTATION FOR A TRANSPORTABLE DEVICE

IMPLANTIERBARE HEART SUPPORT PUMP WITH COUNTER-PRESSURE BALLOON

Cardiac assist device

A device for providing assistance to ventricular systole, the device comprising a pressuriser and a driver, wherein the pressuriser is adapted to be able to apply localised pressure to only the external wall of one ventricle, or a portion thereof, and the driver is operatively linked to the pressuriser so as to be able to drive a cycle of increased and decreased pressure applied by the pressuriser. The invention also relates to a method of implanting the device and a method of treating cardiac pump failure in which the device is used.

MINIATURE, PULSATILE IMPLANTABLE VENTRICULAR ASSIST DEVICES AND METHODS OF CONTROLLING VENTRICULAR ASSIST DEVICES

... ²²²A pumping system for assisting either or both ventricles of the heart. In one ²embodiment, separate devices are provided for each ventricle. In another ²embodiment, one device provides both right and left pumping. The pumping ²system is small, efficient, atraumatic, and fully implantable. In addition, ²the pumping system can provide pulsatile flow during systole. The ventricular ²assist device includes an actuator plate between a pair of serially connected ²pumping chambers that operate in a two-stroke mode, specifically a power ²stroke and a transfer stroke. The ventricular assist device also includes an ²electromagnetic drive system that provides adjustment to the pump pressure ²according to the current through an electromagnet. For the pumping system, ²springs provide a "spring force" on the actuator plate that is towards the ²high-pressure pump chamber. The bias force allows the springs to store and ²deliver energy from the electromagnetic drive system to provide better ²utilization ...

ARTIFICIAL INTRACAVITARY VENTRICLE

The invention relates to an artificial intracavitary ventricle (AIV), comprising a mechanical circulatory support device, which is designed to be assembled inside the muscular mass remaining and preserved in a natural ventricle in terminal failure. Said design makes it possible to use a space available inside the anterior mediastinum and preserve irrigation and functioning of the contralateral ventricle.

IMPLANTABLE CARDIAC ASSIST DEVICE

The invention relates to therapeutic devices to work in conjunction with a diseased or failing heart to satisfy the hemodynamic needs of a patient. More particularly, the invention relates to a fully implantable device for assisting a heart to pump blood by intermittently applying pressure to at least a portion of the ventricular surface of the heart (if not the entire surface), preferably both the atrial and ventricular surfaces, at predetermined or possibly pre-programmed intervals to assist the heart to provide adequate hemodynamic output by sensing demand of the human body.

MUSCLE CONTRACTION CONTROL BY INTRAMUSCULAR PRESSURE MONITORING

... 2072131 9108007 PCTABS00005 A technique for monitoring the performance of a skeletal muscle (22) used in a cardiac assist system. The skeletal muscle is surgically wrapped about the heart (100), the descending aorta (102), or a chamber connected in series with or parallel to the descending aorta (102) to provide direct assistance when electrically stimulated to correspond with naturally or artificially paced heart contractions. The skeletal muscle (22) must be conditioned to perform constant contraction/relaxation within the range of normal heart rates. This conditioning occurs over a length of time which is too long to be directly managed by medical personnel in a sterile environment except experimentally. The present invention provides apparatus and techniques for managing the conditioning process automatically. In the preferred mode a pressure transducer (106) is implanted within the skeletal muscle (22), producing electrical signals enabling a pulse generator (36) to measure the timing ...

APPARATUS FOR ASSISTING BLOOD CIRCULATION

Substitute pericardial used as part of the electrical and dynamic cardiomyoplasty after drive latissimus dorsi muscle.

New cardiac ventricle artificial.

NEW PULSATILE MEDICAL DEVICE

APPARATUS FOR APPLYING A PULSATING PRESSURE PREDETERMINED ONTO A MEDICAL DEVICE

BIOMECHANICAL HEART FOR EXTRA-AORTIC DIASTOLIC BALLOON PUMPING

A biomechanical heart comprising extra-aortic diastolic balloon pumping means consisting of a pump housing (7) arranged between two ducts (5, 9) of an aortic shunt (6) actuated by a muscle (8) energised by electric pulses. A balloon (15) with a substantially ring-shaped cross-section is inserted between the inner walls of the pump housing (7) to define an axial channel (17) communicating with said ducts (5, 9) of the aortic shunt (6). Said channel is connected via a flexible tube (19) to means (20) for injecting a gas flow into said balloon (15) to inflate same and thus reduce the cross-sectional area of flow of the axial channel (17), then deflating said balloon to increase said cross-sectional area of flow of the axial channel (17).

SYNCHRONISATION CONTROL SYSTEM

A method of controlling the operation of a pulsatile heart assist device (14) in a patient (10). The method consisting of utilising sounds produced by the heart (12) to control the operation of the heart assist device (14).

Implantable heart assist system and method of applying same

An extracardiac pumping for supplementing the circulation of blood, including the cardiac output, in a patient without any component thereof being connected to the patient's heart, and methods of using same. One embodiment of the intravascular extracardiac system comprises a pump with inflow and outflow conduits that are sized and configured to be implantable intravascularly through a non-primary vessel, whereby it may positioned where desired within the patient's vasculature. The system comprises a subcardiac pump that may be driven directly or electromagnetically from within or without the patient. The pump is configured to be operated continuously or in a pulsatile fashion, synchronous with the patient's heart, thereby potentially reducing the afterload of the heart. In another embodiment, the system is positioned extracorporeally, with the inflow conduit and outflow conduit applied percutaneously to a non-primary vessel for circulating blood to and from the non-primary vessel or between ...

心臓補助装置

... 内部空間を規定している筺体6と、上記内部空間に通じる少なくとも2つのポート9、10と、該ポートの間にて該内部空間を介して血液をポンピングするための少なくとも1つのポンプ11、12とを備えており、該ポートおよび該内部空間が、弁によって遮断されていない、連続的な血流経路を形成している、心室補助装置。 ...

TRAININGSGER�T F�R A MUSCLE.

PRINTING GENERATOR FOR A HEART SUPPORT DEVICE

PULSATING PUMP OR FLOW MODULATOR FOR EXTRAKORPORALEN CYCLE

Graft for use with counterpulsation device

... l:\aar\Interw ovn\NRPortbl\DCC\AAR837534_l.docx-l3/102017 An apparatus is disclosed for attaching a counter pulsation device (CPD) to a blood vessel in a human or animal subject, the apparatus including: an interposition graft having a first end configured to be attached to the blood vessel, a second end, and an interior passage providing fluid connection between the first end and the second end; and a pump graft having first end attached to the second end of the interposition graft, a second end configured to be attached to the CPD, and an interior passage providing fluid connection between the first end and the second end. In some embodiments, the interior passage of the interposition graft includes a rough surface configured to promote biological growth on the surface, and the interior passage of the pump graft includes a smooth surface configured to inhibit biological growth on the surface.

PERCUTANEOUS INTRA-AORTIC BALLOON APPARATUS

IMPLANTABLE HEART ASSIST SYSTEM

... ²²²An extracardiac pumping for supplementing the circulation of blood, including ²the cardiac output, in a patient without any component thereof being connected ²to the patient's heart, and methods of using same are disclosed. One ²embodiment of the intravascular extracardiac system (10) comprises a pump (32) ²with inflow (50) and outflow (52) conduits that are sized and configured to be ²implantable intravascularly through a non-primary vessel, whereby it may ²positioned where desired within the patient's vasculature. The system ²comprises a subcardiac pump that may be driven directly or electromagnetically ²from within or without the patient. The pump is configured to be operated ²continuously or in a pulsatile fashion, synchronous with the patient's heart, ²thereby potentially reducing the afterload of the heart. In another ²embodiment, the system is positioned extracorporeally, with the inflow conduit ²and outflow conduit applied percutaneously to a non-primary vessel for ²circulating ...

APPARATUS FOR the BLOOD RETROPERFUSION, INTENDS IN PARTICULAR FOR the TREATMENT Of INFARCTION PER INJECTION OF ARTERIAL BLOOD IN the CORONARY SINE

TEMPORARY PLUGGING DEVICE Of a BODY CHANNEL, IN PARTICULAR USEFUL FOR the CARDIAC ASSISTANCE BY BACKPRESSURE

APPARATUS FOR ASSISTING BLOOD CIRCULATION

Artificial heart

Capsule type enhanced external counter pulsation machine with high concentrated oxygen supply chamber

METHOD AND DEVICES PROPOSED FOR THE IMPACT ON THE CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM

The group of inventions provide an effective improvement of the blood flow in the vessels of the extremities due to generation of an antegrade pressure wave of the blood synchronized with phases of the cardiac cycle with the help of compression impulses. The devices provide an improved accuracy of generation of the time and amplitude characteristics of the compression impulses and functioning in modes of generation both the antegrade wave and external counterpulsation.

TRAINING APPLIANCE FOR A MUSCLE

INTRAAORTI BALLOON CATHETER WITH COLLAPSE-CASH INTERIOR PIPE WITH VARIABLE DIAMETER

DEVICE FOR THE INTERMITTENT OKKLUSION OF THE CORONARY SINE

CONTROL SYSTEM F�R A INTRA AORTALE BALLOON PUMP

HEART SUPPORT SYSTEM

INTRA AORTALER BALLOON CATHETER

EXTERNAL BLOOD PRESSURE MEASURING DEVICE

Heart support device

Heart support device for circulatory assistance, with an internal member (6) to be disposed inside a heart lumen (13) and having a dynamic volume body. The internal member (6) has a substantially stiff wall strengthening portion (8) arranged to engage an inner wall surface (12a) of the heart (10) in operation and a dynamic member (9) that is inflatable to assist pumping action of the heart (10).

Portable and modular transportation unit with improved transport capabilities

A medical device, such as an intra-aortic balloon pump or carrier with an extendable wheel track and handle configured to be removably carried and integrated with a cart. The wheel track is configured to extend upon extension of the handle and to return to its original position upon retraction of the handle.

BLOOD CIRCULATORY ASSIST SYSTEM

A BLOOD CIRCULATION ASSISTANCE DEVICE

A blood circulation assistance device (1), for location around a blood conduit (20). The device comprises: an inflatable bladder (10) moveable between a contracted form and an expanded form, for compressing the blood conduit (20) to provide counterpulsation. Pump means (30) in fluid communication with the bladder (10) move the bladder (10) from the contracted form to the expanded form. The pump means (30) comprises a centrifugal impeller (62) rotatable about an axis (61) to effect pumping. The impeller (62) is moveable axially between first and second positions to effect a reversal of the direction of pumping. Control means (50), in communication with the pump means, is capable of monitoring the cardiac cycle of an individual and triggering the pump means (30) to move the bladder (10) to the expanded form at diastole. An outer cuff, surrounds at least a portion of the bladder (10), providing an outer limiting extent to the movement of the bladder (10).

HEART ASSIST DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A heart assist device (10) adapted for implantation into a patient (99). The device (10) includes an aortic compression means (60) adapted, when actuated, to compress an aorta (15) of a patient (99), a fluid reservoir (74) and a pump means (71) adapted to pump a fluid from the fluid reservoir (74) to the aortic compression means (60) so as to actuate the aortic compression means (60) at least partly in counterpulsation with the patient's heart. The fluid reservoir (74) is adapted to be wholly positioned within the chest cavity of the patient (99).

INTRAAORTIC BALLOON CATHETER WITH BLOOD FEED PASSAGE FORMED THEREIN FOR ASSISTING CIRCULATION

When both the IABP and the PCPS are used, they exhibit an excellent circulation assisting effect. In this case, however, sequela such as hypoxic encephalopathy may well occur after the heart failure is remedied. The invention provides an intraaortic balloon catheter capable of preventing such sequela. The balloon catheter of the invention comprises a catheter main body part of which is to be inserted into an aorta, and a balloon section formed on an outer peripheral portion of the catheter main body, to be inserted into the aorta together with the main body, and to be expandible and contractible in the aorta under the control of the IABP. An end portion of the catheter main body functions as an introductory portion of the catheter, and has a blood feed hole formed therein for introducing, into an artery such as the aortic arch, arterial blood of high oxygen concentration fed from a circulation assisting unit such as the PCPS. The catheter main body has a blood feed passage communicating ...

Balloon catheter for pumping in the aorta

L'invention concerne un cathéter à ballon. Elle se rapporte à un cathéter qui comprend une partie de ballon (22) qui est destinée à être introduite dans une aorte, un tube cathéter (24) raccordé afin qu'il permette l'introduction d'un fluide sous pression dans la partie de ballon et l'extraction de ce fluide, et un tube interne (30) qui communique avec un orifice d'introduction du sang placé à un bout externe de la partie de ballon et qui passe dans la partie de ballon et le tube cathéter dans la direction axiale, le tube interne (30) étant fixé à la paroi interne du tube cathéter. Application à l'assistance cardiaque des malades.

Biomechanical heart with dynamic development

La présente invention concerne un coeur bio-mécanique implantable dont le moteur est constitué par un muscle squelettique (3) excité par une source (12) d'impulsions électriques au moins réglables dans le temps. Ce coeur est caractérisé par le fait qu'il comporte un corps de pompe dont au moins une partie, dite de pompage (1), peut être recouverte par au moins une partie dudit muscle squelettique (3), ledit corps de pompe étant constitué, au moins dans la partie de pompage (1), en matériau souple non expansible, et susceptible de contenir un liquide qui peut, à la mise en place, ne pas être du sang; la source (12) d'impulsions électriques est susceptible d'exciter ledit muscle (3) à une fréquence variant progressivement dans le temps, notamment pendant l'entraînement du muscle moteur, de l'ordre d'une impulsion par minute jusqu'à la pulsation de fonctionnement désirée.

DEVICE GENERATEUR/REGULATEUR OF PRESSURE FOR PUMP Of CARDIAC ASSISTANCE PLANTABLE OF the TYPE HAS SMALL BALOON OF BACK-PRESSURE

NEW PULSATILE MEDICAL DEVICE

L'invention concerne un nouveau dispositif médical pulsatile comprenant : - un cathéter (1), destiné à être inséré dans un vaisseau sanguin, ayant un diamètre et présentant une tige à son extrémité d'insertion, dite partie A, et - un élément gonflable (6), logé autour d'une partie du cathéter (1), dite partie B, ledit élément gonflable (6) étant destiné à être relié à un moyen de gonflage (9), placé du côté de l'autre extrémité dudit cathéter (1), dite partie C, et permettant le gonflage/dégonflage dudit élément gonflable, de manière pulsée, le diamètre de la partie B dudit cathéter (1) étant inférieur aux diamètres des parties A et C dudit cathéter (1) et les diamètres des parties A et C dudit cathéter (1) étant sensiblement égaux.

Balloon catheter for pumping in the aorta

L'invention concerne un cathéter à ballon. Elle se rapporte à un cathéter (120) qui comprend une partie de ballon (122) qui est destinée à être introduite dans une aorte, et un tube cathéter (124) raccordé afin qu'il permette l'introduction d'un fluide sous pression dans la partie de ballon et l'extraction de ce fluide. La partie de ballon présente un côté de bout et un côté d'extrémité dont les sections sont différentes, la section de ladite partie de ballon allant en diminuant depuis le côté de bout vers le côté d'extrémité. Le tube cathéter (124) est raccordé à ce côté d'extrémité. Application à l'assistance cardiaque des malades.

NEW PULSATILE MEDICAL DEVICE

Pulsatile medical device i.e. tube, for use during extracorporeal surgery, has inner pipe whose outer wall and inner wall of outer tube define space connected to apparatus that inflates or deflates space to create pulsation of blood flow

L'invention concerne un dispositif médical pulsatile (101 ; 201 ; 301 ; 401 ; 501) permettant la circulation d'un flux sanguin. L'invention consiste en que le dispositif comprend : - un tuyau externe (2) présentant une paroi interne (5), une paroi externe (4) et deux extrémités (6, 7), une extrémité (6) destinée à être connectée à une machine de type CEC ou à un système d'assistance cardiaque ou au corps du patient et une extrémité (7) destinée à être connectée au corps du patient ; - un tuyau interne (103), inséré dans ledit tuyau externe (2), présentant une paroi interne (109), une paroi externe (108) et deux extrémités (110, 111) fixées, sur toute leur périphérie, au tuyau externe (2), sur toute sa périphérie, le flux sanguin circulant au travers dudit tuyau interne (103) ; - la paroi externe (108) du tuyau interne (103) et la paroi interne (5) du tuyau externe (2) définissant un espace (12) destiné à être rempli de fluide, ledit espace (12) pouvant être relié par un port connecteur ...

METHODS, DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR COUNTERPULSATION OF BLOOD FLOW TO AND FROM THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM

Counterpulsation methods and systems for assisting the heart of a patient involve, for example, coordinating the operation of a pulsatile pump to suction blood from an artery through a blood flow conduit while the heart is in systole and expel the blood into the blood flow conduit and the artery while the heart is in diastole. 1. A counterpulsation method of assisting the heart of a patient using a pump assist system , the method comprising:coupling a first conduit to the cardiovascular system of the patient without entering the chest cavity or abdominal cavity of the patient,connecting a first port of a pulsatile pump to the first conduit,implanting the pump in the patient without entering the chest cavity or abdominal cavity of the patient,connecting a driver unit to the pump, andcoordinating the operation of the pulsatile pump with the driver unit to suction blood from the cardiovascular system through the first port and the first conduit while the heart is in systole and expel the blood into the first port and the first conduit and the cardiovascular system while the heart is in diastole wherein operation of the pump includes delivering a fluid from the driver unit to the pump.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein coupling the first conduit further comprises coupling to an artery in at least one of the neck claim 1 , shoulder or upper chest region of the patient.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein coupling the first conduit further comprises coupling to an artery in the retroperitoneal region of the patient.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:affixing the driver unit to the patient at a location outside the body of the patient,directing the fluid from a location outside the body of the patient to the implanted pump.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:coupling a driver conduit from the driver unit to an opposite side of the pump relative to the first conduit, andsupplying the fluid to the pump through the driver conduit.6. The method of claim 1 , ...

Skin interface device for cardiac assist device

Abstract A skin interface device (SID) for an implantable cardiac assist device is disclosed. The SID comprises a processor, a non-transitory computer readable medium, and computer readable program code encoded in said non-transitory computer readable medium, the computer readable program code comprising a series of computer readable program steps to effect receiving signals from one or more implanted EKG sensors.

Counterpulsation device driver apparatus, method and system

COUNTERPULSATION DEVICE DRIVER APPARATUS, METHOD A method of operating a counterpulsation device (CPD) in a human or animal subject is disclosed, the method including: receiving a heart beat signal indicative of the heart beat of the subject; providing counterpulsation therapy by controlling the pressure supplied to a CPD drive line in pneumatic communication with the CPD to cause the CPD to alternately fill with blood and eject blood with a timing that is determined at least in part based on the heart beat signal; while providing counterpulsation therapy, receiving a CPD drive line pressure signal indicative of the pressure in the CPD drive line; and adjusting the pressure supplied to the drive line based at least in part on the drive line pressure signal. WO 2013/078390 PCT/US2012/066367 \Wl lmmmmm% xNEEME, Imml \X O\z r,4 C) 0 C) r-I r-I ...

DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR COUNTERPULSATION AND BLOOD FLOW CONDUIT CONNECTION

HEART ASSIST SYSTEM

A cardiac assist pump, including: a cannula, including an outer sheath, which defines and encloses a lumen therein, the cannula having a distal end and a proximal end. The cannula is inserted through the aorta of a subject so that the distal end is inside a ventricle of the heart of said subject. The pump includes at least one intake valve, adjacent to the distal end of the cannula, through which blood enters the lumen from the ventricle; at least one outlet valve, disposed radially along the sheath of the cannula, through which blood exits the lumen into the aorta; a fluid reservoir having a variable fluid volume, connected to the proximal end of the cannula, such that blood may flow between the lumen and the reservoir; and a pump drive, coupled to the fluid reservoir and controlling the fluid volume in the reservoir. The pump drive alternately increases and decreases the fluid volume in the reservoir to produce a pulsatile pumping action of blood through the cannula.

MUSCLE STIMULATOR WITH VARIABLE DUTY CYCLE

... 2068987 9108006 PCTABS00005 Apparatus and method of controlling a muscle stimulator by varying the duty cycle. The muscle stimulator is particularly adapted to a skeletal muscle powered cardiac assist system. An activity or other sensor (104) is used to determine the requirement for cardiac output. A second electrical sensor (34) is used to determine the cardiac rate. The outputs of these two sensors are employed to select a duty cycle for muscle stimulation of the skeletal muscle (22). The duty cycle is lowered for reasons of efficiency and safety during periods of very high or very low cardiac rate or body activity. The number of stimulation pulses within a burst is similarly increased when cardiac demand is high to ensure maximum contractile force of the skeletal muscle (22) during each stimulation burst.

INTRA-AORTIC BALLOON CATHETER

An improved intra-aortic balloon catheter having an outer tube of a polymeric material and an inner tube of superelastic metal material with varying flexibility. The inner tube has a proximal end and a distal end. The inner tube is more flexible proximate the distal end than the proximal end.

Pericardial replacement used in cardiomyoplasty following dynamic and electrical actuation of the greater thoracic muscle

La présente invention concerne un substitut péricardique pour la phase d'entraînement et la phase de fonctionnement. Ce substitut péricardique est caractérisé par le fait qu'il se présente sous forme d'une membrane protégeant et éventuellement prolongeant le substitut musculaire et assurant sa non-adhérence.

High frequency intra-arterial cardiac support system

Disclosed is a high-frequency intra-arterial cardiac support system having a balloon pump (20) which may be positioned in a major artery downstream of a natural heart. The balloon pump comprises a pumping balloon (14), of small displacement, mounted upon and cyclically inflatable and deflatable by fluid flow through catheter (16) having a lumen leading to the outside of the body. The balloon pump further comprises a valve (15) mounted downstream of said pumping balloon. The system further comprises a control and drive mechanism (18) for providing cyclical fluid flow to said lumen of said catheter for inflation and deflation of said pumping balloon. The cyclical flow and the cyclical inflation and deflation occur at a frequency which is at least three times the normal beating frequency of the natural heart. The small displacement of the pumping balloon is much smaller than the normal stroke volume of the natural heart.

HEART ASSIST SYSTEM WITH MUSCLE FITNESS DETECTION BY COLORIMETRY

Apparatus and method for monitoring the performance of skeletal muscle (22) used in a skeletal muscle powered cardiac assist system. The monitoring is performed by an oxygen sensor (106) which determines the adequacy of circulatory support to the skeletal muscle (22). An adequately supported skeletal muscle can offer the desired cardiac assistance chronically. Insufficient support indicates that the skeletal muscle will easily fatigue until adequate vascularization is achieved. If the circulatory support is chronically insufficient, the risk of ischemia becomes high and additional surgical intervention may be required. A preferred mode employs a two wavelength reflectance oximeter. The sensed data may be stored in memory within an implantable pulse generator. This memory may be interrogated telemetrically.

MINIATURE, PULSATILE IMPLANTABLE VENTRICULAR ASSIST DEVICES AND METHODS OF CONTROLLING VENTRICULAR ASSIST DEVICES

A pumping system for assisting either or both ventricles of the heart. In one embodiment, separate devices are provided for each ventricle. In another embodiment, one device provides both right and left pumping. The pumping system is small, efficient, atraumatic, and fully implantable. In addition, the pumping system can provide pulsatile flow during systole. The ventricular assist device includes an actuator plate between a pair of serially connected pumping chambers that operate in a two-stroke mode, specifically a power stroke and a transfer stroke. The ventricular assist device also includes an electromagnetic drive system that provides adjustment to the pump pressure according to the current through an electromagnet. For the pumping system, springs provide a "spring force" on the actuator plate that is towards the high-pressure pump chamber. The bias force allows the springs to store and deliver energy from the electromagnetic drive system to provide better utilization of the pump ...

PORTABLE AND MODULAR TRANSPORTATION UNIT WITH IMPROVED TRANSPORT CAPABILITIES

Abstract: A carrier comprising: a body, a wheel assembly connected to the body, a handle assembly connected to the body, the handle assembly comprising a handle movable between a first position and a second position, the wheel assembly comprising a first and second wheel each movable between: (i) a retracted position defining a first wheel track in which the wheels are spaced apart a predetermined distance, and (ii) an extended position defining a second wheel track larger than the first in which the wheels are spaced apart a distance greater than the predetermined distance, wherein movement of the handle from the first position to the second position causes movement of the wheels from the retracted position to the extended position.

IMPLANTABLE HEART ASSIST SYSTEM

An extracardiac pumping for supplementing the circulation of blood, including the cardiac output, in a patient without any component thereof being connected to the patient's heart, and methods of using same are disclosed. One embodiment of the intravascular extracardiac system (10) comprises a pump (32) with inflow (50) and outflow (52) conduits that are sized and configured to be implantable intravascularly through a non-primary vessel, whereby it may positioned where desired within the patient's vasculature. The system comprises a subcardiac pump that may be driven directly or electromagnetically from within or without the patient. The pump is configured to be operated continuously or in a pulsatile fashion, synchronous with the patient's heart, thereby potentially reducing the afterload of the heart. In another embodiment, the system is positioned extracorporeally, with the inflow conduit and outflow conduit applied percutaneously to a non-primary vessel for circulating blood to and ...

INTRA-AORTIC BALLOON PUMP DEVICE

A large thin walled polyurethane balloon (20) for an intra-aortic balloon pump catheter (10) is coated with a hydrophilic lubricous coating (36) which includes a water-soluble polyvinyl pyrrolidone, preferably in a blend with a thermoplastic polyurethane, and a suitable organic solvent and then is dried and cured for a substantial period. The dried and cured balloon (20) is assembled into a catheter (10) and furled. The furled balloon (20f) demonstrates a high degree of slipperiness when hydrated in conjuction with insertion into a patient's vasculature, unfurls readily, and demonstrates flexibility, strength and toughness for use in intra-aortic pulsation operation.

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR REVASCULARIZATION AND PERFUSION

The invention is practiced by introducing a catheter (10) into the left ventricle of the heart. Deployment of an intraventricular pump assembly (12) from the end of catheter (10) is carried out by pushing holding device (24) in direction of the arrow (26). The tubes (20) of the intraventricular pump assembly (16) swing outward to protrude from hub (18). The first intraventricular pump (16) has a resilient bulb (30) attached to the hub (18). The tubes (20) are then self-anchored the myocardium such that they can act to inject blood into the myocardial wall from the ventricle.

Permanently implantable circulation assistance

L'invention concerne un dispositif d'assistance circulatoire caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend les éléments suivants, implantables de manière permanente dans le corps d'un patient: - des moyens (10), branchés sur l'aorte du patient, permettant d'augmenter le flux sanguin émis par le coeur, - un système de contrôle et de régulation (4) permettant de contrôler l'activité cardiaque du patient et de réguler le flux sanguin par commande des moyens d'augmentation du flux sanguin (10), - des moyens d'alimentation en énergie (51, 52) des éléments du dispositif pour assurer au patient une autonomie dans ses déplacements.

DEVICE FOR TEMPORARILY CLOSING A BODY CHANNEL, IN PARTICULAR FOR ASSISTING THE HEART BY APPLICATION OF COUNTER-PRESSURE

La présente invention concerne un dispositif d'obturation temporaire d'un canal corporel, notamment utile à l'assistance cardiaque par contre-pression, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend: - une première structure gonflable (1) définissant à l'état gonflé, un manchon conformé pour venir épouser la surface interne dudit canal en ménageant un conduit central (4); - une seconde structure gonflable à expansion radiale de préférence de l'extérieur vers l'intérieur, maintenue par ladite première structure (1) et conformée pour permettre à l'état gonflé d'obturer sensiblement complètement ledit conduit central (4) formé après gonflage de ladite première structure; - des moyens permettant la mise en communication fluide de chacune desdites première et seconde structures gonflables avec une source d'alimentation en fluide.

Balloon catheter - with central support rod for twisting balloon before insertion

NEW PULSATILE MEDICAL DEVICE

L'invention concerne un dispositif permettant de créer un gonflage pulsatile d'un élément gonflable (11) de cathéter (8), comprenant : - une poche (1) , adaptée à être remplie de fluide (2) , - un moyen de compression de poche (5), adapté à comprimer ladite poche (1) de manière pulsée, et - un moyen de connexion (3) reliant ladite poche (L) audit élément gonflable (11) du cathéter (8) et permettant la circulation du fluide (2) entre ledit élément gonflable (11) et ladite poche (1).

Fluid actuator for implantable cardiac assist operating in counter pulse mode.

L'invention concerne un actionneur pour exercer une pression de fluide comprenant un moteur (2), susceptible de fournir un mouvement de rotation, et des moyens (3, 5) étanches audit fluide, déformables sous l'action du mouvement de rotation fourni par le moteur et destinés à être remplis dudit fluide. Les moyens étanches comprennent un organe (3) déformable élastiquement, le moteur et ledit organe étant agencés de façon que ledit organe soit soumis à un mouvement de torsion en réponse audit mouvement de rotation, le mouvement de torsion ayant pour effet d'exercer une pression sur le fluide, l'organe déformable élastiquement retournant à son état initial en l'absence de mouvement de rotation fourni. Cet actionneur est en particulier destiné à faire partie d'un dispositif d'assistance cardiaque implantable fonctionnant en contre-pulsation.

PUMP PLANTABLE CARDIAC ASSISTANCE OF the TYPE HAS SMALL BALOON OF BACK-PRESSURE

Cette pompe comprend: un corps essentiellement rigide ouvert à ses deux extrémités et destiné à être inséré dans l'artère aorte descendante; une membrane souple et élastique (18) en forme de manchon relié de manière étanche au corps en périphérie des extrémités de celui-ci de manière à définir, d'une part, entre corps et manchon, un espace intermédiaire fermé (20) de volume variable et, d'autre part, à l'intérieur du manchon, un volume variable (22) traversé par le sang à pomper; et des moyens pour relier l'espace intermédiaire à une source de fluide hydraulique propre à faire passer la membrane d'un état libre à un état tendu où elle se trouve sollicitée radialement vers l'intérieur, de manière à réduire corrélativement le volume traversé par le sang, et réciproquement. Selon l'invention, entre les extrémités du corps la membrane est mobile librement par rapport au corps, et elle comporte au moins trois éléments raidisseurs longitudinaux (36), répartis régulièrement en périphérie et propres ...

DEVICES, METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR COUNTERPULSATION AND BLOOD FLOW CONDUIT CONNECTION

A blood flow conduit is disclosure, including:a first conduit portion defining a first portion of a lumen; and a second conduit portion defining a second portion of a lumen. At least one of the first or second conduit portions may include a tip portion and the other of the first or second conduit portions may include an enlarged area.

PUMP FOR BLOOD PERFUSION

In blood perfusion during cardiac surgery or ventricular assistance, for treating cardiac insufficiency, use is currently made of a centrifugal pump that generates a linear flow in the circulatory system, counter to the pulsating flow generated by the heart. According to the invention, a pulsating linear flow is achieved for blood perfusion by providing, in the interior wall of the chamber or casing of the pump (3), an elastic lining (8) in the form of a bell-shaped membrane that inflates and deflates, producing variations in volume and changes in pressure that give rise to a pulsating effect in the flow at the outlet (6) from the pump (3). At the inlet (5) to the pump (3) there is a non-return valve formed by an annular thickening (11).

HEART ASSISTANCE DEVICE

The invention relates to a heart assistance device for the pulsatile delivery of blood. A first and a second pump chamber 14, 16 are provided, and also a pump 18. Both pump chambers 14, 16 each have a fluid chamber 14a, 16a and a blood-carrying chamber 14b, 16b. By means of the pump 18, each fluid chamber 14a, 16a can be filled with a fluid 20 or emptied thereof in such a way that an expansion or contraction of the fluid chamber 14a, 16a takes place. During the expansion of the fluid chamber 14a of one pump chamber 14, a compression of the blood-carrying chamber 14b of the same blood chamber 14 takes place. According to the invention, the pump 18 is designed as a roller cell pump or vane pump.

MUSCLE CONTROL AND MONITORING SYSTEM

Apparatus and method for monitoring the performance of skeletal muscle used in a skeletal muscle powered cardiac assist system. The longest term monitoring is performed by an oxygen sensor which determines the adequacy of circulatory support to the skeletal muscle. An adequately supported skeletal muscle can offer the desired cardiac assistance chronically. Insufficient support indicates that the skeletal muscle will easily fatigue if adequate vascularization is not achieved. If the circulatory support is chronically insufficient, the risk of ischemia becomes high and additional surgical intervention may be required. A somewhat shorter term concern is the adequacy of the conditioning needed to render a fast twitch skeletal muscle useful in assisting the slow twitch myocardium. A pressure transducer is used to measure conditioning sufficiency. A third type of monitoring provides an indication of changes in cardiac requirements utilizing an activity sensor. This indication of cardiac requirements ...

CARDIOVASCULAR DEVICE

A cardiovascular device (), adapted to be fitted into a cardiac ventricular cavity () having a volume with blood flowing therethrough, which is bounded by walls () and has a larger longitudinal dimension (D) and a smaller transverse dimension (D), characterized in that it comprises diaphragm means () that can be disposed in said ventricular cavity () substantially transverse to said larger longitudinal dimension (D), in such an arrangement as to reduce said volume, said diaphragm means () having a peripheral edge () which can be sealingly engaged with said walls () and being adapted to be alternately driven between an active blood pushing displacement and an inactive return displacement. 1. A cardiovascular device , to be fitted in a ventricular cardiac cavity having a volume wherein blood flows , which is bounded by walls and has a greater longitudinal dimension and a lower transverse dimension , said device comprising diaphragm means that can be fitted inside said ventricular cardiac cavity substantially transverse to said greater longitudinal dimension , so as to reduce said volume , said diaphragm means having a peripheral edge which can be sealingly engaged with said walls and being alternatively driven between an active shifting of pushing blood and an inactive back shifting.2. A device according to claim 1 , wherein each of said active shifting and inactive shifting are substantially synchronized respectively with a systole and a diastole of the heart.3. A device according to claim 1 , wherein said diaphragm means are movably actuated by actuating means.4. A device according to claim 1 , wherein said diaphragm means are movably driven by pushes of said walls during said systole and diastole.5. A device according to claim 3 , wherein said diaphragm means comprise:A planar element equipped with said peripheral edge, movable alternatively between a pushing position and a backward position;A support frame of said planar element that is movable between said ...

CARDIAC ASSIST DEVICE, INSTRUMENTS, AND METHODS

A cardiac assist device is provided that can be deployed in any region of the aorta by minimally invasive techniques by the way of an inventive fastener that affixes the device to the aorta wall at the site of an aortonomy. The devices and methods described herein allow for improved patient outcome. 1. A fastener for attaching a cardiac assist device to an aorta comprising:an anvil,a staple magazine, said staple magazine removably or fixedly connected to said anvil, anda deployment mechanism, said deployment mechanism removably or fixedly connected to said anvil or said staple magazine,said anvil or said staple magazine associated with a cardiac assist device prior to deploying the cardiac assist device.2. The fastener of wherein said anvil and said staple magazine define an elliptical shape.3. The fastener of further comprising one or more embracers claim 1 , said embracers connected to said anvil or said staple magazine.4. The fastener of wherein said embracers comprise one or more securement points operable for associating said embracer with a shunt.5. The fastener of wherein said embracers extend or are positioned beyond an aortotomy.6. The fastener of wherein further comprising a staple shuttle movably connected to said staple magazine.7. The fastener of further comprising a knife connected to said staple shuttle passing within said staple magazine and said channel of said anvil.8. The fastener of wherein said channel is a space such that the anvil comprises two rectilinear extensions.9. The fastener of wherein said anvil further comprises a brace attaching the distal ends of the extensions.10. The fastener of further comprising a plurality of alignment devices removably connecting said anvil to said staple magazine.11. The fastener of further comprising a second staple shuttle claim 6 , said second staple shuttle further comprising a knife such that activation of both shuttles creates an aortotomy.12. A cardiac assist device for placement in an incision in an ...

DOUBLE BALLOON PUMP CARDIAC ASSIST DEVICE AND RELATED METHOD OF USE

A system and method for cardiac assist of a heart in a beating stage comprising a double balloon catheter having a proximal end and a distal end, the catheter having at least one lumen; an inflatable intra-ventricular balloon mounted on the catheter near the distal end of the catheter, the balloon having a lumen in fluid communication with the lumen of the catheter and being configured for inflation in a ventricle; and an intra-aortic balloon mounted on the catheter proximally to the intra-ventricular balloon; a control unit comprising a bidirectional pump; a fluid reservoir; and a processor configured to activate the pump; wherein the proximal end of the catheter is configured for attachment to the control unit to form a fluid conduction system in which fluid is configured to be pumped by the pump between the fluid reservoir and the intra-ventricular balloon and the intra-aortic balloon; and systolic augmentation comprising a new pressure wave which is generated when said balloon is inflated at the end of the slow ejection phase of the beating heart, such that any residual volume of blood left in said ventricle is displaced. 2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein said slow ejection phase corresponds to the ascending part of the ECG-T wave of the beating heart.3. The system according to claim 1 , wherein said double balloon pump catheter is configured to be introduced into the left ventricle through the femoral artery or into the aorta through a left mini non-invasive thoraectomy.4. The system according to further comprising one or more electrodes mounted on the catheter near the distal end generating a signal indicative of electrical activity of the heart and wherein the processor is configured to receive the electrical signals.5. The system according to claim 4 , wherein the proximal part of said electrodes can be connected to a pacemaker box.6. The system according to wherein the processor is configured to analyze the signal indicative of electrical ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ASSISTING CARDIAC FUNCTION

Devices and methods for assisting cardiac function. In an exemplary embodiment of a device for assisting heart function of the present disclosure, the device comprises a first plate and an opposing second plate, each plate having an inner surface, a cardiac processor coupled to at least one of the first plate and the second plate, a bladder having an inner chamber and disposed between the inner surfaces, and a first catheter having a proximal end in communication with the inner chamber of the bladder and a distal end having a first pericardial balloon coupled thereto, wherein a gas and/or a liquid within the inner chamber of the bladder can be injected into the first pericardial balloon upon compression of the first plate relative to the second plate, and wherein the gas and/or the liquid can be removed from the first pericardial balloon upon retraction of the first plate relative to the second plate. 1. A device for assisting heart function , comprising:a first plate and an opposing second plate, each plate having an inner surface;a cardiac processor coupled to at least one of the first plate and the second plate;a bladder having an inner chamber, the bladder disposed between the inner surfaces of first plate and the second plate; anda first catheter having a proximal end in communication with the inner chamber of the bladder and a distal end having a first pericardial balloon coupled thereto;wherein a gas and/or a liquid within the inner chamber of the bladder can be injected into the first pericardial balloon upon compression of the first plate relative to the second plate, and wherein the gas and/or the liquid can be removed from the first pericardial balloon upon retraction of the first plate relative to the second plate.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein when the first pericardial balloon is positioned within a pericardial space surrounding a heart claim 1 , the device is operable to inject the gas and/or the liquid into the first pericardial balloon claim 1 , ...

INTRA-AORTIC BALLOON COUNTERPULSATION WITH CONCURRENT HYPOTHERMIA

Devices, systems and methods for treating disorders characterized by low cardiac output. The devices, systems and methods use intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation in combination with hypothermia of all or a portion of a human or veterinary patient's body to improve coronary perfusion and cardiac output. To effect the hypothermia, a heat exchange catheter may be positioned in the a patient's vasculature separately from the intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation catheter. Alternatively, a combination Intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation/heat exchange catheter may be utilized. Such combination catheter comprises a) a catheter sized for insertion into the aorta, b) a counterpulsation balloon and c) a heat exchanger. A drive/control system receives temperature and electrocardiograph signals and drives the inflation/deflation of the counterpulsation balloon as well as the heating/cooling of the heat exchanger. 1. A method for treating a human or veterinary patient who suffers from congestive heart failure or another condition wherein the patients cardiac output is subnormal , said method comprising the steps of:a. providing a heat exchange/intra-aortic counterpulsation catheter comprising i) an elongate catheter having a proximal end and a distal end, said catheter being advancable, distal-end-first, into the aorta of the patient, ii) a counterpulsation balloon useable for effecting intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation; and, a heat exchanger useable to cool at least a portion of the patient's body to a temperature that is at least 1 EC below normothermia.b. advancing the heat exchange/intra-aortic counterpulsation catheter, distal end first, into the patient's aorta such that the counterpulsation balloon is positioned in the thoracic aorta;c. driving and controlling the counterpulsation balloon and heat exchanger so as to effect intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation while cooling and/or maintaining the temperature of at least a portion of the patient's body to a ...

Method and Device for Intermittent Occlusion of a Vein Draining the Organ System

In a method for the intermittent occlusion of a vein draining the organ system, in which the vein is occluded by an occlusion device, the fluid pressure in the occluded vein is continuously measured and stored, the behavior of the fluid pressure is determined as a function of time, and the occlusion of the vein is triggered and/or released as a function of at least one characteristic value derived from the pressure measurements, pressure is applied during the occlusion in a pulsating manner. The device for the intermittent occlusion of a vein, including an occlusion device, a pressure measuring device for continuously measuring the fluid pressure in the occluded vein, and a memory for storing the fluid pressure behavior as a function of time, means are provided for applying a pulsating pressure in the occluded vein. 1. (canceled)2. A method for intermittent occlusion of a coronary sinus , comprising the steps of:occluding a coronary sinus of a patient using an occlusion device coupled to a distal end portion of the multi-lumen catheter and being in communication with a first lumen of the multi-lumen catheter, the occlusion device being adjustable between a non-occluding state and an occluding state that is configured to substantially occlude the coronary sinus;measuring and storing fluid pressure values in the occluded coronary sinus during said occluding step;during said occluding step, outputting a pulsating pressure into the occluded coronary sinus from a pulsating membrane structure coupled to the distal end portion of the multi-lumen catheter and positioned in the coronary sinus, wherein the pulsating membrane structure outputs pressure waves at a frequency greater than a pulse rate of the patient,releasing the occlusion of the coronary sinus as a function of at least one characteristic value derived from said pressure values in the occluded coronary sinus.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein said outputting the pulsating pressure occurs only during the occlusion ...

Synchronization Control System

The various embodiments herein relate to systems and methods for controlling the operation of a pulsatile heart assist device in a patient. The systems and methods include utilizing sounds and electrical signals produced by the heart to control the operation of the heart assist device.

Endovascular ventricular assist device, using the mathematical objective & principle of superposition

This embodiment suggests new approach for Endovascular Ventricular Assist Device, using the mathematical objective & principle of superposition allow design and calculation of the body response to VAD pump located in the Aorta. This new approach allows minimal invasive Endovascular VAD that result in similar relief to the heart as partial VAD. Using special power transfer technique will allow wireless power transformation into the aorta. This methods and technique should dramatic reduce VAD barrier

PUMP FOR RIGHT ATRIUM

Apparatus and methods are described, including apparatus () for implanting in a heart of a human subject. The apparatus includes an interatrial anchor () shaped to define an opening () having a diameter of 4-8 mm, and a bag () in fluid communication with the opening of the anchor. The apparatus is shaped to fit within a right atrium of the heart of the subject, and has a capacity of between 4 and 20 cm3. Other applications are also described. 122-. (canceled)23. A method for treating a subject , the method comprising:during atrial diastole of the subject, receiving blood from the left atrium of the subject into a bag that is disposed within a right atrium of the subject; andduring atrial systole of the subject, utilizing musculature of the right atrium to pump blood from the bag into the left atrium, by compressing the bag.24. The method according to claim 23 , wherein utilizing musculature of the right atrium comprises utilizing musculature of a right atrial appendage of the subject.25. The method according to claim 23 , wherein compressing the bag comprises compressing the bag while the bag is at least partly inside of a right atrial appendage of the subject.26. The method according to claim 23 , wherein utilizing the musculature of the right atrium to pump the blood from the bag comprises utilizing the musculature of the right atrium to pump between two and eight cm3 of blood from the bag.27. The method according to claim 26 , wherein utilizing the musculature of the right atrium to pump the blood from the bag comprises utilizing the musculature of the right atrium to pump between three and five cm3 of blood from the bag.28. A method comprising:inserting apparatus into a right atrium of a subject, the apparatus including an interatrial anchor and a bag in fluid communication with an opening of the anchor; andanchoring the anchor to an interatrial septum of the subject, such that the anchor provides fluid communication between a left atrium of the subject and the ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING INTRA-CARDIAC PRESSURES FOR IMPROVED EXERCISE CAPACITY

Systems and methods are provided for optimizing hemodynamics within a patient's heart, e.g., to improve the patient's exercise capacity. In one embodiment, a system is configured to be implanted in a patient's body to monitor and/or treat the patient that includes at least one sensor configured to provide sensor data that corresponds to a blood pressure within or near the patient's heart; at least one component designed to cause dyssynchrony of the right ventricle, and a controller configured for adjusting the function of the at least one component based at least in part on sensor data from the at least one sensor. 1. A system configured to be implanted in a patient's body to monitor and/or adjust electrical activation of the patient's heart , the system comprising:at least one sensor acquiring signals corresponding to patient activity or movement;at least one pacing component positioned adjacent a free wall of a right ventricle of the heart, whereby stimulation of the at least one pacing component is designed to compromise function of the right ventricle; anda controller coupled to the at least one sensor and at least one pacing component for adjusting the function of the at least one pacing component based at least in part on the signals from the at least one sensor.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an additional sensor measuring sensor data corresponding to a blood pressure.3. A system for monitoring and/or treating a heart of a patient to increase the patient's capacity for physical activity claim 1 , comprising:a blood pressure sensor implantable within a region of the heart;an adjustable component configured to affect contractility of a right ventricle of the heart;an activity sensor implantable within the patient's body;at least one pacing component sized for introduction into a region of the heart; anda processor operatively coupled to the pressure sensor, the adjustable component, the activity sensor, and the at least one pacing component to: ...

SYNCHRONIZED INTRAVENTRICULAR BALLOON ASSISTANCE DEVICE

System structured to facilitate a movement of a myocardial wall by pushing such wall with a force originated due to energy harvested by the system from a motion of a ventricular chamber without the use of any external energy. The system includes two pliable storage volumes fluidly interconnected by a passage to form a closed circuit that enables a movement of the fluid from one storage volume to another in response to a user input. Optionally, one of the storage volumes is encased in a cover characterized by a spatially-non-uniform distribution of elastic properties. The method of using the system includes juxtaposition of one of the storage volumes with a ventricular chamber and another of the storage volumes with a targeted myocardial wall to enable reversible flow of fluid within the system during a cardiac cycle.

CARDIAC TREATMENT SYSTEM

An assembly for providing localized pressure to a region of a patient's heart to improve heart functioning, including: (a) a jacket made of a flexible biocompatible material, the jacket having an open top end that is received around the heart and a bottom portion that is received around the apex of the heart; and (b) at least one inflatable bladder disposed on an interior surface of the jacket, the inflatable bladder having an inelastic outer surface positioned adjacent to the jacket and an elastic inner surface such that inflation of the bladder causes the bladder to deform substantially inwardly to exert localized pressure against a region of the heart. 1. An assembly for providing localized pressure to a region of a patient's heart to improve heart functioning , comprising:(a) a jacket made of a flexible biocompatible material, the jacket having an open top end that is received around the heart and a bottom portion that is received around the apex of the heart; and(b) at least one inflatable bladder disposed on an interior surface of the jacket, the inflatable bladder having an inelastic outer surface positioned adjacent to the jacket and an elastic inner surface positioned adjacent to the heart such that inflation of the bladder causes the bladder to deform substantially inwardly to exert localized pressure against a region of the heart.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the jacket is made of a knit mesh.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the jacket is made of a polymer.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the polymer is high-density polyethylene.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the jacket is made of metal.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein jacket has a bottom end that is cinched closed.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the inflatable bladder has a supply line connected thereto claim 1 , and wherein the supply line is positioned inside the jacket and extends out of an open bottom end of the jacket adjacent to the apex of the heart.8. The system of claim 1 , ...

DELIVERY SYSTEMS HAVING A TEMPORARY VALVE AND METHODS OF USE

A delivery system for percutaneously delivering a heart valve prosthesis to a site of a native heart valve includes a delivery catheter and a heart valve prosthesis. The delivery catheter includes an outer sheath, an inner shaft, and an orifice restriction mechanism. The heart valve prosthesis has a valve member and a docking member. When the orifice restriction mechanism is positioned within the docking member within an annulus of the native heart valve, the orifice restriction mechanism temporarily replicates the operation of the native heart valve until the valve member is positioned within the docking member. 120-. (canceled).22. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein the orifice restriction mechanism is configured to temporarily replicate the operation of the native heart valve by alternating between the first state and the radially expanded second state.23. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein the heart valve prosthesis is a mitral heart valve prosthesis and the native heart valve is a native mitral valve.24. The delivery system of claim 23 , wherein the orifice restriction mechanism is configured to temporarily replicate the operation of the native valve by transitioning to the first state during diastole and transitioning to the radially expanded second state during systole of the cardiac cycle of a heart.25. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein the orifice restriction mechanism comprises a balloon attached to the inner shaft.26. The delivery system of claim 25 , wherein:the heart valve prosthesis comprises a docking member and a valve member;the docking member is balloon expandable and is mounted on the balloon in the delivery configuration; andthe balloon is configured to radially expand the docking member and then temporarily replicate the operation of the native heart valve within the docking member until the valve member is deployed within the docking member.27. The delivery system of claim 21 , wherein the orifice restriction mechanism ...

DRIVE DEVICE FOR A MEMBRANE FLUID PUMP AND OPERATING METHOD

A drive device is provided comprising a working pump, the working pump connected to a membrane fluid pump, and the working pump having a working piston able to oscillate axially between two reversal points for contracting and expanding a working chamber, and a control unit for controlling a movement of the working piston between the two reversal points. The controlled movement of the working piston comprises three temporally successive phases, in a first phase the working piston is accelerated to a speed that is greater than a speed at the end of the first phase, in a second phase the working piston is moved such that a specified speed of the working piston, a specified relative pressure in the working chamber, or a specified force of the working piston is substantially kept constant, and in a third phase the working piston is moved at a negative acceleration. 1. (canceled)2. A drive device for a membrane fluid pump , the drive device comprising:a working pump configured to drive the membrane fluid pump via a pressure line, the working pump comprising a hollow cylinder and a working piston, the working piston configured to oscillate axially in the hollow cylinder between two reversal points for contraction and expansion of a working chamber in the working pump, the working chamber being in a pressure exchanging connection with the pressure line; anda control unit configured to control a movement of the working piston between the two reversal points according to a temporal position specification, the control unit further configured to determine the temporal position specification according to an iterative learning position controller in which the control unit determines the temporal position specification based on a curve measurement of a relative pressure from preceding pump cycles, wherein the relative pressure is a pressure in the working chamber relative to ambient pressure.3. The drive device of claim 2 , wherein a force of the working piston includes a load and ...

METHOD FOR OPERATING A SUPPLY DEVICE WHICH SUPPLIES A LIQUID TO A CHANNEL, AND SUPPLY DEVICE, HOLLOW CATHETER, AND CATHETER PUMP

The present invention relates to a supply device for a channel, in particular within a hollow catheter, and to a method for operating a supply device of this type that supplies a channel with a liquid and has two pumps arranged at points of the channel distanced from one another, characterised in that the parameter values of at least one operating parameter of both pumps are coordinated with one another in a controlled manner. As a result of the method, interruption-free and precisely controllable operation is to be ensured with simple structural means, in particular in the case of use of wear-free diaphragm pumps. 1. A supply device for supplying a channel with a liquid , having at least one diaphragm pump and having a control device , wherein the control device controls the at least one diaphragm pump in respect of at least one of a generated pressure and a delivery rate.2. The supply device according to having at least two diaphragm pumps claim 1 , wherein the at least two diaphragm pumps are arranged at points of the channel distanced from one another claim 1 , and wherein the control device controls the at least two diaphragm pumps individually in respect of at least one of the generated pressure and the delivery rate.3. The supply device according to claim 1 , wherein each of the at least one diaphragm pump is assigned a liquid pressure sensor.4. The supply device according to claim 1 , wherein each of the at least one diaphragm pump is assigned an electric sensor for detecting a current consumption of each of the at least one diaphragm pump.5. The supply device according to claim 1 , wherein each of the at least one diaphragm pump is assigned a flow rate sensor.6. A method for operating a supply device that supplies a channel with a liquid and has at least one diaphragm pump claim 1 , wherein the method comprises a step of controlling the at least one diaphragm pump with respect to at least one of a generated pressure and a delivery rate.7. The method of ...

AORTIC CATHETER

The invention relates to an aortic catheter () for insertion into the aorta (A), having a flexible tube (), two occlusion balloons (), which are spaced part from one another and each of which is connected to a supply line () for supplying a pumping medium () for inflating the occlusion balloons (), having at least one opening () arranged between the occlusion balloons () in the tube () for supplying a cooling medium (), which at least one opening () is connected to a first cooling medium supply line () running in the tube (), and also relates to a resuscitation set () with such an aortic catheter (), and a distal port () for supplying a cooling medium () in the direction of cerebral vessels is disposed in the tube (), which distal port () is connected to a second cooling medium supply line () running in the tube (). 1. An aortic catheter for insertion into the aorta (A) , comprising:a flexible tube,two occlusion balloons spaced a distance apart from one another, each connected to a supply line for supplying a pumping medium for inflating the occlusion balloons andthe flexible tube having at least one opening arranged between the occlusion balloons for supplying a cooling medium, the at least one opening being connected to a first cooling medium supply line running in the tube, whereinan intra-aortic balloon pump, which is arranged between the occlusion balloons, is connected to another supply line, anda distal port for supplying a cooling medium in direction of an cerebral vessels, is arranged in the tube, said distal port being connected to a second cooling medium supply line running in the tube.2. The aortic catheter according to claim 1 , wherein a ratio of a cross-section of the first cooling medium supply line to a cross-section of the second cooling medium supply line is between 1:1.75 and 1:2.25.3. The aortic catheter according to claim 1 , wherein multiple openings are arranged in the tube between the occlusion balloons claim 1 , said openings having a ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING PULMONARY HYPERTENSION

A system for treating heart disease, such as pulmonary hypertension or right heart failure, including an implantable component and external components for monitoring the implantable component is provided. The implantable component may include a compliant member, e.g., balloon, coupled to a reservoir via a conduit. Preferably, the compliant member is adapted to be implanted in a pulmonary artery and the reservoir is adapted to be implanted subcutaneously. The external components may include a clinical controller component, monitoring software configured to run a clinician's computer, a patient monitoring device, and a mobile application configured to run on a patient's mobile device. 1. A system for treating pulmonary hypertension , the system comprising:an implantable component comprising a compliant member sized and shaped to be implanted in a pulmonary artery, the compliant member configured to expand and contract responsive to pressure changes in the pulmonary artery;a sensor associated with the implantable component, the sensor configured to sense a parameter of the implantable component and to generate a signal comprising information indicative of the sensed parameter; anda non-transitory computer readable medium programmed with instructions that, when executed by a processor of a computer operatively coupled to the sensor, cause the computer to compare the information to a predetermined threshold, and to generate an alert if comparison of the information to the predetermined threshold fails.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the sensed parameter is pressure claim 1 , humidity claim 1 , or flow rate within the implantable component.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the sensor is configured to continuously sense the parameter of the implantable component.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined threshold is derived from a lookup table stored within the computer.5. The system of claim 1 , further comprising one or more additional sensors associated ...

ENDOVASCULAR PERFUSION AUGMENTATION FOR CRITICAL CARE

Systems and methods for Endovascular Perfusion Augmentation for Critical Care (EPACC) are provided. The system may include a catheter having an expandable aortic blood flow regulation device disposed on the distal end of the catheter for placement within an aorta of a patient. The system may also include a catheter controller unit that causes the expandable aortic blood flow regulation device to expand and contract to restrict blood flow through the aorta. The system may also include one or more sensors for measuring physiological information indicative of blood flow through the aorta, and a non-transitory computer readable media having instructions stored thereon, wherein the instructions, when executed by a processor coupled to the one or more sensors, cause the processor to compare the measured physiological information with a target physiological range associated with blood flow through the aorta such that the catheter controller unit automatically adjusts expansion and contraction of the expandable aortic blood flow regulation device to adjust an amount of blood flow through the aorta if the measured physiological information falls outside the target physiological range. 1. An automated endovascular perfusion augmentation system , the system comprising:a catheter having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion, the distal end portion configured for placement within an aorta of a patient;an expandable aortic blood flow regulation device disposed on the distal end portion of the catheter for placement within the aorta, the expandable aortic blood flow regulation device configured to expand to restrict blood flow through the aorta and to contract;a catheter controller unit coupled to the proximal end portion of the catheter and configured to cause the expandable aortic blood flow regulation device to expand and contract in the aorta;one or more sensors configured to measure physiological information indicative of blood flow through the aorta; anda non- ...

VENTRICULAR ASSIST DEVICE CONTROL

A control device for a ventricular assist device (VAD) with settable speed levels. The control device includes an input configured to receive at least one measuring signal related to a physiological condition of the circulatory system of a patient receiving heart assistance by the VAD, where the control device is configured to derive an actual value of at least one characteristic parameter of the heart from one or more of the at least one measuring signal and to provide a refined actual value of the at least one characteristic parameter in which effects of physiologically caused fluctuations are eliminated or reduced. The control device further includes an output configured to output an updated setting value for the speed level, where the control device is configured to produce the updated setting value based on the refined actual value and a predeterminable set-point value. 1. A control device for a ventricular assist device (VAD) with settable speed levels , the control device comprising:an input configured to receive at least one measuring signal related to a physiological condition of the circulatory system of a patient receiving heart assistance by the VAD, wherein the control device is configured to derive an actual value of at least one characteristic parameter of the heart from one or more of the at least one measuring signal and to provide a refined actual value of the at least one characteristic parameter in which effects of physiologically caused fluctuations are eliminated or reduced; andan output configured to output an updated setting value for a speed level, wherein the control device is configured to produce the updated setting value based on the refined actual value and a predeterminable set-point value.2. The control device according to claim 1 , wherein the control device is configured to process at least one of the one or more of the at least one measuring signal or the actual value to provide the refined actual value.3. The control device ...

Flow enhancement for circulatory support device

An inlet tube of a circulatory support device includes a first end configured to receive incoming blood and a second end coupled to a first end of a blood pump. A lumen extends from the first end to the second end, and a spiral feature is disposed within the lumen and configured to support a spiral flow of the incoming blood.

Collapsible and self-expanding cannula for a percutaneous heart pump and method of manufacturing

An expandable cannula for a percutaneous heart pump includes a substantially open proximal end and a substantially open distal end. The expandable cannula includes an elongate central portion disposed between the proximal end and the distal end, the elongate central portion having an inner surface and an opposing outer surface. A first fluid impermeable film is disposed on at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface. The first fluid impermeable film comprises a polymer and has a thickness within a range of from 10 μm to 200 μm.

COLLAPSIBLE AND SELF-EXPANDING CANNULA FOR A PERCUTANEOUS HEART PUMP AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING

An expandable cannula for a percutaneous heart pump includes a substantially open proximal end, a substantially open distal end and an elongate central portion disposed between the proximal end and the distal end. The elongate central portion has an inner surface and an opposing outer surface. The expandable cannula is made of a shape memory alloy having an austenite finish temperature Athat is at or below the body temperature of a human patient. 1. An expandable cannula for a percutaneous heart pump , the expandable cannula comprising:a substantially open proximal end;a substantially open distal end; andan elongate central portion disposed between the proximal end and the distal end, the elongate central portion having an inner surface and an opposing outer surface;{'sub': 'f', 'wherein the expandable cannula comprises a shape memory alloy having an austenite finish temperature Athat is at or below the body temperature of a human patient.'}2. The expandable cannula according to claim 1 , wherein Ais 37° C.3. The expandable cannula according to claim 2 , wherein Ais from 5° C. to 30° C.4. The expandable cannula according to claim 2 , wherein Ais from 10° C. and 25° C.5. The expandable cannula according to claim 2 , wherein Ais from 10° C. to 20° C.6. The expandable cannula according to claim 1 , wherein the shape memory alloy is selected from the group consisting of nickel-titanium (nitinol) claim 1 , copper-zinc claim 1 , copper-zinc-aluminum claim 1 , copper-aluminum-nickel claim 1 , and gold-cadmium.7. The expandable cannula according to claim 1 , wherein the elongate central portion has an outer diameter of approximately 3.5 mm when the shape memory alloy is in a martensite phase.8. The expandable cannula according to claim 1 , wherein the elongate central portion has an outer diameter of approximately 7 mm when the shape memory alloy is at or above the Atemperature.9. The expandable cannula according to claim 1 , wherein the elongate central portion comprises a ...

Implanted Extracardiac Device for Circulatory Assistance

This invention is an implanted extracardiac device for supplementing blood circulation which comprises an implanted blood flow lumen, a blood flow increasing mechanism, and a control unit. Its design improves blood circulation when the blood flow increasing mechanism is operating, without hindering native blood flow when the mechanism is not operating. This device improves circulation without intruding on cardiac tissue or weakening the heart by completely supplanting cardiac function. Also, since the device allows native blood flow when the blood flow increasing mechanism is not in operation, it requires less power and can enable more patient mobility. 1. An implanted extracardiac device for supplementing blood circulation comprising:at least one implanted blood flow lumen, wherein this implanted blood flow lumen is configured to be implanted within a person's body so as to receive blood inflow from a blood vessel at an upstream location with respect to the natural direction of blood flow, wherein this implanted blood flow lumen is configured to discharge blood into a blood vessel at a downstream location with respect to the natural direction of blood flow, wherein this implanted blood flow lumen has a longitudinal axis spanning from the upstream location to the downstream location, wherein this implanted blood flow lumen has a cross-sectional area through which blood can flow which is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and wherein a minimum cross-sectional flow area is defined as the minimum unobstructed cross-sectional area through which can blood flow from the upstream location to the downstream location;a blood flow increasing mechanism, wherein this blood flow increasing mechanism is configured to be implanted within a person's body, wherein this blood flow increasing mechanism is configured to increase the flow of blood from the upstream location to the downstream location when the blood flow increasing mechanism is in operation by ...

THERAPEUTIC INTERVENTION METHODS, DEVICES, AND SYSTEMS

Described herein are devices, systems, and methods used to assess an organ or organ system and determine a course of treatment for said organ, organ system, and/or patient. 1. A method of treating a patient , the method comprising:obtaining, in a processor, a plurality of measurements that are related to the patient;determining, via the processor, an organ demand score and an organ capacity score from the plurality of measurements;calculating, via the processor, a demand-capacity ratio using at least one of a clinical points ratio calculation, a logistic ratio calculation, a logistic additive ratio calculation, clinical index product ratio calculation, a logistic product ratio calculation, or a combination thereof;causing, via the processor, information to be displayed on a display screen that is indicative that the patient has organ failure and needs intervention when the demand-capacity ratio is in a target range; andproviding for, via the processor, an administration of organ support to the patient.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the calculating is performed by dividing the organ demand score by the organ capacity score to provide the demand-capacity ratio.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein at least the obtaining claim 1 , determining claim 1 , and calculating steps can be repeated to provide a dynamic demand-capacity ratio.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the steps are repeated at intervals of time.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the dynamic demand-capacity ratio can be used to determine a change in therapy needed.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of measurements includes at least one of a heart rate claim 1 , a blood pressure claim 1 , a cardiac output claim 1 , a urine sample claim 1 , a blood sample claim 1 , a liquid input value claim 1 , a sequential organ failure assessment score for the patient claim 1 , an INR value claim 1 , a pOvalue claim 1 , a COremoval value claim 1 , a FeV1 test value claim 1 , a pH value or a combination ...

INTRA-AORTIC BALLOON COUNTERPULSATION WITH CONCURRENT HYPOTHERMIA

Devices, systems and methods for treating disorders characterized by low cardiac output. The devices, systems and methods use intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation in combination with hypothermia of all or a portion of a human or veterinary patient's body to improve coronary perfusion and cardiac output. To effect the hypothermia, a heat exchange catheter may be positioned in the a patient's vasculature separately from the intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation catheter. Alternatively, a combination Intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation/heat exchange catheter may be utilized. Such combination catheter comprises a) a catheter sized for insertion into the aorta, b) a counterpulsation balloon and c) a heat exchanger. A drive/control system receives temperature and electrocardiograph signals and drives the inflation/deflation of the counterpulsation balloon as well as the heating/cooling of the heat exchanger. 112-. (canceled)13. A system for controlling body temperature and providing intra-aortic counterpulsation in a human or animal subject , said system comprising:an endovascular heat exchanger positionable in the vasculature of the subject and useable to exchange heat with blood flowing through the subject's vasculature;an intra-aortic counterpulsation balloon positionable in the aorta of the subject and useable to provide intra-aortic counterpulsation; anddrive and control apparatus operative to control the endovascular heat exchanger and the intra-aortic counterpulsation balloon.14. A system according to wherein the drive and control apparatus comprises at least one controller or computer programmed to i) control inflation/deflation of the counterpulsation balloon in response to received electrocardiogram signals to thereby effect intra-aortic counterpulsation and ii) control the temperature of the endovascular heat exchanger in response to received temperature signals representative of patient body temperature.15. A system according to wherein the drive and ...

INTRACARDIAC PUMPING DEVICE

The invention relates to an intercardiac pump device comprising a pump () whose distal end () is connected to a cannula () which is provided with a suction head () for sucking blood. Said strainer is provided with a non-sucking extension () for stabilising the position of said pump device in the heart and mechanically prolonging the cannula () without deteriorating hydraulic conditions. Said extension is also used in the form of a spacer in order to avoid that the suction head () adheres to a cardiac wall. 19-. (canceled)10. A method for providing an intracardiac percutaneous blood pump to a patient comprising:inserting into the patient the intracardiac percutaneous blood pump comprising a catheter having an outer diameter and proximal and distal regions;positioning a cannula at least partially within a heart of a patient, wherein the cannula is coupled to the distal region of the catheter and configured to extend across a heart valve when the cannula is positioned inside the heart of the patient, wherein the cannula has an outer diameter that is about the same as an outer diameter of the pump and wherein the cannula further comprises an expansible suction head with a blood inlet; andoperating the expansible suction head from an initial state with a first outer diameter that is about the same as the outer diameter of the cannula to an expanded state with a second outer diameter, the second outer diameter being larger than the first outer diameter and the outer diameter of the cannula; andwherein the percutaneous blood pump further comprises an impeller for pumping blood into the blood inlet.11. The method of wherein the intracardiac percutaneous blood pump is inserted into the patient using a guide wire.12. The method of wherein the guide wire is inserted into the patient first and the intracardiac percutaneous blood pump is inserted by slipping the percutaneous blood pump over the guide wire.13. The method of further comprising removing the guide wire after the ...

Catheter for the directional conveyance of a fluid, particularly a body fluid

A catheter for the directional conveyance of a fluid, in particular a body fluid, is provided. The catheter includes a sleeve having an internal space and a frame. The sleeve has at least three openings and is configured at least in a region between the first opening and the second opening as a conduit for the fluid. A check valve is arranged at the second opening. The check valve includes a valve foil which is at least partially attached to the sleeve such that the second opening can be completely covered by the valve foil.

Dual-Balloon Cardiac Pump

A dual-balloon cardiac pump comprises a flexible catheter tube in pneumatic communication with inflatable ventricular and aortic balloons, which are inflated and deflated in accordance with a programmed sequence of pressurized inert gas into the catheter tube as regulated by a control unit. The programmed sequence rapidly inflates and deflates the ventricular balloon after left ventricular contraction is completed. The programmed sequence inflates the aortic balloon after the aortic valve closes and deflates it just before the next systolic cycle begins. 1. A dual-balloon cardiac pump , inserted into a left ventricle and an aorta of a patient's heart , comprising:a flexible catheter tube in pneumatic communication with an inflatable distal ventricular balloon and an inflatable proximal aortic balloon;wherein the ventricular balloon is shaped and sized to fit within the left ventricle and is inserted into the left ventricle;wherein the aortic balloon is shaped and sized to fit within the aorta and is inserted into the aorta;wherein the catheter tube extends through the aorta into the left ventricle;wherein the distal tip of the catheter tube has a sensor for detecting pressure or electrical activity, or both, in order to synchronize inflation and deflation of the ventricular and aortic balloons in a programmed sequence;wherein the dual-balloon cardiac pump further comprises a control unit that supplies pressurized inert gas into the catheter tube so as to inflate and deflate the ventricular and aortic balloons in accordance with the programmed sequence; andwherein the programmed sequence comprises three stages: (1) during diastole, immediately after the aortic valve closes, the aortic valve is inflated and the ventricular balloon remains deflated; (2) during early systole, the aortic balloon is deflated and the ventricular balloon remains deflated; and (3) after the contraction of the left ventricle is completed, just before the isovolometric relaxation period, the ...

INTEGRATED SENSORS FOR INTRAVENTRICULAR VAD

A ventricular assist device includes a pump including a housing having an inlet, an outlet and a moveable element disposed in the housing for urging blood from the inlet to the outlet. An outflow cannula having a proximal end attached to the pump housing, a distal end remote from the pump housing, an interior bore in communication with the outlet of the pump housing, and at least one outlet aperture communicating with the interior bore remote from the pump housing is included. At least one sensor mounted to the outflow cannula and configured to detect a parameter of blood flowing at least one from the group consisting of through the outflow cannula and about an exterior of the outflow cannula is included. 1. A ventricular assist device , comprising:a pump including a housing having an inlet, an outlet and a moveable element disposed in the housing for urging blood from the inlet to the outlet;an outflow cannula having a proximal end attached to the pump housing, a distal end remote from the pump housing, an interior bore in communication with the outlet of the pump housing, and at least one outlet aperture communicating with the interior bore remote from the pump housing; andat least one sensor mounted to the outflow cannula and configured to detect a parameter of blood flowing at least one from the group consisting of through the outflow cannula and about an exterior of the outflow cannula.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the interior bore of the cannula has a longitudinal axis extending longitudinally and the cannula has a transverse wall extending transverse to the longitudinal axis claim 1 , the at least one sensor being mounted to the transverse wall.3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the transverse wall is disposed adjacent the distal end claim 2 , and the at least one outlet aperture is disposed proximal to the transverse wall.4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the outflow cannula defines a tapered tip at its distal end claim 3 , and the at least one outlet ...

DIFFUSION AND INFUSION RESISTANT IMPLANTABLE DEVICES FOR REDUCING PULSATILE PRESSURE

Diffusion and infusion resistant implantable devices and methods for reducing pulsatile pressure are provided. The implantable device includes a balloon implantable within a blood vessel of a patient, e.g., the pulmonary artery. The balloon is injected with a fluid mixture comprising a constituent fluid(s) and a diffusion-resistant gas to provide optimal balloon volume and limit fluid diffusion throughout multiple cardiac cycles. The fluid mixture may be pressurized such that the balloon is transitionable between an expanded state and a collapsed state responsive to pressure fluctuations in the blood vessel. 1. A system for reducing pulsatile pressure , the system comprising:a balloon configured to be implanted in a blood vessel and to hold a fluid mixture pressurized such that the balloon transitions between an expanded state and a collapsed state responsive to pressure fluctuations in the blood vessel, the fluid mixture comprising one or more constituent fluids and a diffusion-resistant fluid configured to maintain a desired volume and pressure within the balloon throughout multiple cardiac cycles, wherein the fluid mixture is pressurized within the balloon to match blood pressure surrounding the balloon within the blood vessel to reduce permeation of fluids across the balloon throughout multiple cardiac cycles.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the balloon is configured for long-term implantation in the blood vessel.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the balloon is configured to be implanted in a pulmonary artery.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the diffusion-resistant fluid comprises a partial pressure equal to a difference between partial pressures of the one or more constituent fluids and a predetermined desired balloon pressure.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more constituent fluids comprise at least one of NO claim 1 , He claim 1 , HO claim 1 , CO claim 1 , O claim 1 , N claim 1 , Ar claim 1 , or CH.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein a ...

Combination Heart Assist Systems, Methods, and Devices

The various embodiments disclosed herein relate to combination heart assist systems, methods, and devices that include both an electrical therapy device and a mechanical heart assist device. Various operational modes can be implemented using these embodiments, including a synchronized pacing mode, an internal CPR mode, and an internal workout mode. 1. A method of controlling a heart assist device , the method comprising:detecting a characteristic of a heart with a sensor;transmitting a signal relating to the heart characteristic to an electrical therapy device via the sensor;actuating the electrical therapy device to transmit a pacing signal to a pacing component based at least in part on the heart characteristic signal;transmitting a signal to a controller, wherein the transmitting the signal to the controller is based at least in part on the heart characteristic signal; andactuating a mechanical heart assist device with an actuating signal from the controller, wherein the actuating is based at least in part on the signal to the controller.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the transmitting the signal to the controller further comprises transmitting the signal to the controller via a connecting lead coupled to the electrical therapy device and the controller.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sensor is a sensing lead.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pacing component is a pacing lead.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the controller is physically integral with the electrical therapy device.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the controller is physically integral with the mechanical heart assist device.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the mechanical heart assist device is a pulsatile device.8. The method of claim 1 , further comprising actuating both the mechanical heart assist device and the electrical therapy device to operate synchronously to assist the heart based on the information about the heart characteristic.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ...

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DIASTOLIC ASSIST

The devices and method described herein allow for therapeutic damage to increase volume in these hyperdynamic hearts to allow improved physiology and ventricular filling and to reduce diastolic filling pressure by making the ventricle less stiff. For example, improving a diastolic heart function in a heart by creating at least one incision in cardiac muscle forming an interior heart wall of the interior chamber where the at least one incision extends into one or more layers of the interior heart wall without puncturing through the interior heart wall and the incision is sufficient to reduce a stiffness of the interior chamber to increase volume of the chamber and reduce diastolic filing pressure. 1positioning a medical device within a body of the patient;advancing the medical device into an interior chamber of the heart;creating at least one incision in cardiac muscle forming an interior heart wall of the interior chamber without cutting through the interior heart wall, where the incision is sufficient to reduce a stiffness of the interior chamber to increase volume of the chamber and reduce diastolic filing pressure.. A method of improving a diastolic heart function in a heart of a patient having diastolic heart dysfunction, the method comprising: This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/176,564, filed on Feb. 10, 2014, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/277,158, filed on Oct. 19, 2011, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 61/394,759 filed on Oct. 19, 2010; 61/478,495 filed on Apr. 23, 2011; and 61/504,641 filed on Jul. 5, 2011, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.Congestive heart failure (CHF) in the United States has a prevalence of approximately 5.8 million people and an incidence of approximately 550,000 people annually. CHF is a rapidly growing medical problem. CHF can be categorized as either systolic heart failure (SHF) or diastolic ...

CARDIAC ASSIST DEVICE

A device for providing assistance to ventricular systole, the device comprising a pressuriser and a driver, wherein the pressuriser is adapted to be able to apply localised pressure to only the external wall of one ventricle, or a portion thereof, and the driver is operatively linked to the pressuriser so as to be able to drive a cycle of increased and decreased pressure applied by the pressuriser. The invention also relates to a method of implanting the device and a method of treating cardiac pump failure in which the device is used. 1. A device for providing assistance to ventricular systole , the device comprising:a pressurizer;a driver; andwherein the pressurizer is adapted to be able to apply localized pressure to only the external wall of one ventricle, or a portion thereof, and the driver is operatively linked to the pressurizer so as to be able to drive a cycle of increased and decreased pressure applied by the pressurizer.2. The device as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a cardiac event timing sensor adapted so that in use the cardiac event timing sensor can distinguish between periods of ventricular systole and ventricular diastole.3. The device as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the cardiac event timing sensor is operatively linked to the driver such that when the device is in use the driver can direct an increase in the pressure to be timed in order to be applied by the pressurizer during the appropriate period of the cardiac cycle for assisting ventricular systole.4. The device as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the cardiac event timing sensor is operatively linked to the driver such that when the device is in use the driver can direct a decrease in pressure to be timed in order to be applied by the pressurizer during periods that are appropriate for ensuring adequate ventricular filling.5. The device as claimed in claim 2 , wherein the cardiac event timing sensor comprises an ECG.6. The device as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the pressure applied by ...

TWISTING BIVENTRICULAR CARDIAC ASSIST DEVICE

A cardiac assist device is provided. The cardiac assist device may comprise a structure surrounding at least a portion of a heart. The cardiac assist device may comprise an inner cup enclosing at least a portion of the structure. The cardiac assist device may comprise an outer cup enclosing at least a portion of the inner cup. The outer cup may comprise an opening. Gas may be conducted into a space between the outer cup and the inner cup, using a pump, to cause a first motion of the structure, associated with a first rotation of a first portion of the heart in a first direction. The gas may be conducted from the space to outside of the outer cup, using the pump, to cause a second motion of the structure, associated with a second rotation of the first portion of the heart in a second direction. 1. A cardiac assist device , comprising: a first ring on a first side of the structure;', 'a second ring on a second side of the structure; and', 'a plurality of columns connecting the first ring to the second ring;, 'a structure surrounding at least a portion of a heart, wherein the structure comprisesan inner cup enclosing at least a portion of the structure; and the outer cup comprises an opening;', 'at a first instance, gas is conducted into a space between the outer cup and the inner cup, via the opening, using a pump;', 'the gas being conducted into the space causes a first motion of the structure, wherein the first motion is associated with a first rotation of the second ring in a first direction;', 'at a second instance, the gas is conducted from the space to outside of the outer cup, via the opening, using the pump; and', 'the gas being conducted from the space to the outside of the outer cup causes a second motion of the structure, wherein the second motion is associated with a second rotation of the second ring in a second direction, different than the first direction., 'an outer cup enclosing at least a portion of the inner cup, wherein2. The cardiac assist device ...

Device and a method for providing resuscitation or suspended state in cardiac arrest

Disclosed is a device for providing resuscitation or suspended state through redistribution of cardiac output to increase supply to the brain and heart for a patient. The device includes an electrically controllable redistribution component attachable to the patient to provide redistribution of the cardiac output to increase supply to the brain and heart. The redistribution component, following a predefined reaction pattern based on an electrical signal, and computer means configured to: receive a patient data which identifies physiological and/or anatomical characteristics of the patent; and provide the electrical signal for the redistribution component based on the patient data or a standard response. The device may provide mechanisms to protect the aorta and the remaining anatomy of the patient from inadvertent damage caused by the disclosed device in any usage scenario of either correct intended usage or unintended usage. Also disclosed is a method for providing resuscitation or suspended state. 1. A device for providing resuscitation or suspended state through redistribution of cardiac output to increase supply to the brain and heart for a patient , the device comprisingan electrically or manually controllable redistribution component attachable to the patient and being configured to interact with the patient to provide redistribution of the cardiac output to increase supply to the brain and heart, the redistribution component following a predefined reaction pattern based on an electrical signal, and receive a patient data which identifies physiological and/or anatomical characteristics of the patient; and', 'provide the electrical signal for controlling the redistribution component and/or for presenting the physiological and/or anatomical characteristics for a user based on the patient data or a standard response., 'computer means configured to2. The device according to claim 1 , where the computer means comprises memory means having stored therein a ...

TOTAL HEART ASSISTANCE DEVICE

The present invention relates generally to the field of cardiac, vascular system, and heart assistance devices. It provides the energy required to keep the blood flowing in the pulmonary and systemic circuits to a desired level, acting on one or more chambers. Actual problems of Total Artificial Heart pumping blood are design limitations, infection, hemorrhage, end organ failure, thromboembolism, device dysfunction, life span of diaphragms, and impossibility to restore the heart but with a transplant. The device is external and has four units replicating the natural heart and its dynamics, driving by a pneumatic transcutaneous system to provide the energy needed up to the desired working level of a healthy organ. Applications are on those types of surgical or clinical treatment of patients with Diastolic Heart Failure or used to treat Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (Systolic Heart Failure), the device can be left connected permanently or for healing. 1) An assembly as attachments to assist a cardiovascular biological system comprising: Four inflatable flexible patches located on the external surface of the heart chambers with an external control panel.2) The inflatable flexible patches of claim 1 , which are inflated with pressurized air conveyed from patient transcutaneous piping from a pneumatic unit on two ways: one for the pulmonary circuit and another for the systemic circuit claim 1 , or four units: one for each heart's chamber independent managed.3) The assembly attachments of claim 1 , wherein the piping air flows is controlled by means of valves and servomechanisms where these activate an alternating passage of compressed air from the exhaust of compressed returning it to the pneumatic unit inlet claim 1 , closing a variable-alternate cycle.4) The assembly attachments of where automation is managed by connecting the SA (sinoatrial node) claim 1 , or another point in the circuit brain-heart claim 1 , to the external control panel.5) A pneumatic ...

METHOD FOR INCREASED UPTAKE OF BENEFICIAL AGENT AND EJECTION FRACTION BY POSTCONDITIONING PROCEDURES

A method for improving tissue uptake of beneficial agent and ejection fraction. 120-. (canceled)21. A catheter system comprising:a catheter comprising an expandable member, an inflation lumen, and an independent deflation lumen; a reservoir disposed entirely within the handle for supplying fluid to inflate the expandable member;', 'an actuator disposed on the handle and capable of inflating the expandable member via the inflation lumen and deflating the expandable member via the deflation lumen; and, 'a handle capable of hand-carrying comprising'}a valve for controlling fluid flow in one direction through the catheter.22. The system of claim 21 , wherein the actuator comprises one of a switch claim 21 , button or lever.23. The system of claim 21 , wherein the valve for controlling fluid flow in one direction comprises a one-way check valve.24. The system of claim 23 , wherein the one-way check valve allows flow out of the expandable member claim 23 , but not into the expandable member.25. The system of claim 23 , further comprising a pulse valve.26. The system of claim 25 , wherein the one-way check valve allows flow from the pulse valve to the inflation lumen.27. The system of claim 25 , wherein the pulse valve and one-way check valve are configured to provide Venturi-assisted deflation of the expandable member.28. A catheter system comprising:a catheter comprising an expandable member, an inflation lumen, and an independent deflation lumen; a reservoir disposed entirely within the handle for supplying fluid to inflate the expandable member;', 'an actuator disposed on the handle and defining a first and second position, the actuator capable of inflating the expandable member via the inflation lumen in the first position and deflating the expandable member via the deflation lumen in the second position; and, 'a handle capable of hand-carrying comprising'}a valve for modulating fluid flow in one direction defining a fluid circuit through the catheter from said ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REDUCING PULSATILE PRESSURE

A device for reducing pressure within a lumen includes a reservoir structured for holding a fluid therein, an injection port in fluid communication with the reservoir, a compliant body structured to expand and contract upon changes in pressure, and a conduit extending between and fluidly coupling the reservoir and the compliant body. The fluid may be a compressible or a noncompressible fluid. 1. A system for reducing pulsatile pressure comprising:a reservoir structured to be implanted subcutaneously, said reservoir for holding a fluid therewithin;an injection port in fluid communication with the reservoir;a compliant body structured to be implanted in the lumen of a vessel, said compliant body including at least one compliant body lumen, said compliant body structured for expansion and compression upon changes in pressure in the vessel; anda transvascular conduit extending between and fluidly coupling the reservoir and said at least one compliant body lumen,wherein said compression of the compliant body results in a reduction in peak pressure in the vessel.243-. (canceled) The invention relates generally to a system and method for reducing pulsatile pressure, and more particularly to a device having a compliant body that is implantable in a vessel for reducing pulsatile load in the vessel and a method of delivering the device.In patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension, a known or unknown disease process results in vasoconstriction and proliferation of the cells making up the wall of the small pulmonary arteries. This leads to increased resistance to blood flow and increased steady state pressure in the pulmonary artery. Over time, the increased pressure in the pulmonary artery, as well as other disease processes, cause the pulmonary artery to lose its elasticity, resulting in a decrease in vascular compliance. Vascular compliance is a measure of the elastic properties of a vessel and is defined as the change in volume in a vessel in response to a change in ...

System and method for reducing pulsatile pressure

A device for reducing pressure within a lumen includes a reservoir structured for holding a fluid therein, an injection port in fluid communication with the reservoir, a compliant body structured to expand and contract upon changes in pressure, and a conduit extending between and fluidly coupling the reservoir and the compliant body. The fluid may be a compressible or a noncompressible fluid.

Implantable ventricular assist device

An implantable ventricular assist device comprises an intraventricular stent used for the creation of an artificial chamber inside the ventricle, a balloon-like structure used to drive the change of the artificial chamber between a contractile configuration and a diastolic configuration, a power system used for driving the change of the balloon-like structure between the contractile configuration and the diastolic configuration. There is also a power system and a mechanical design to operate the system working, wherein in the contractile configuration, the balloon-like structure expands and occupies the space of the artificial chamber and drives the blood inside the artificial chamber flow outside the artificial chamber, wherein in the diastolic configuration, the balloon-like structure shrinks and releases the space inside the artificial chamber, and the blood outside the artificial chamber flows back into the artificial chamber. It is easy to reach the goal of cardiac function. 1. An implantable ventricular assist device comprising:an intraventricular stent used for the creation of an artificial chamber inside the ventricle by a three-dimensional mesh-like hollow supporting structure;a balloon-like structure is disposed inside the intraventricular stent to drive the change of the artificial chamber between a contractile configuration and a diastolic configuration, wherein in the contractile configuration, the balloon-like structure expands and occupies the space of the artificial chamber and drives the blood inside the artificial chamber flow to outside the artificial chamber through the mesh-like structure of the intraventricular stent; wherein in the diastolic configuration, the balloon-like structure shrinks and releases the space inside the artificial chamber, and the blood outside the artificial chamber flows back into the artificial chamber through the mesh-like structure of the intraventricular stent;a power system for driving the change of the balloon-like ...

INTRA-AORTIC BALLOON APPARATUS, ASSIST DEVICES AND METHODS FOR IMPROVING FLOW, COUNTERPULSATION AND HAEMODYNAMICS

A circulatory assist apparatus comprising: an inflatable pumping balloon having a proximal end joined to an elongated balloon catheter, the balloon catheter having a distal end joined to the pumping balloon and a proximal end, separated from the distal end by a length sufficient to extend from within a circulatory lumen to the outside of a patient's body, for receiving positive and negative pressure pulses from a pump to inflate and deflate the pumping balloon; and a radially expandable frame, mounted on one of a segment extending distally from the pumping balloon, the balloon catheter, and a sleeve tube surrounding the balloon catheter. The expandable frame is manipulate to expand within the circulatory lumen, and functions to space apart the inflatable balloon from the circulatory lumen, having a first diameter in a collapsed configuration for intraluminal delivery and a second, larger diameter in an expanded configuration achieved by said manipulation. 1. A circulatory assist apparatus for use to improve pressure and create and augment flow in an aorta or other circulatory lumen , the apparatus comprising:an inflatable pumping balloon having a proximal end joined to an elongated balloon catheter, the balloon catheter having a distal end joined to the pumping balloon and a proximal end, separated from the distal end by a length sufficient to extend from within the circulatory lumen to the outside of a patient's body, for receiving positive and negative pressure pulses from a pump to inflate and deflate the pumping balloon;a first radially expandable frame, mounted on a segment extending distally from the pumping balloon, wherein the first expandable frame is manipulable to expand within the circulatory lumen, and functions to space apart the inflatable pumping balloon from the circulatory lumen, said expandable frame having a first diameter in a collapsed configuration for intraluminal delivery and a second, larger diameter in an expanded configuration achieved by ...

INTRODUCER ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF

The invention provides an introducer assembly for delivering a blood pump into vasculature of a subject, as well as a method for utilizing the assembly. 1. An introducer assembly for introducing a blood pump comprising:a shaft elongated along a longitudinal axis, the shaft having a distal end, a proximal end, a lumen extending along the longitudinal axis from the distal end to the proximal end, and a collet mechanism disposed at the proximal end for receiving a guidewire; anda locking component having a distal end and a proximal end, the locking component adapted such that the distal end of the locking component reversibly couples to the proximal end of the shaft,wherein the locking component has a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, andwherein when in the locked configuration, a gripping force is created between the collet mechanism and the guidewire.2. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the distal end of the shaft is fluidly coupled with a drive line of a blood pump device.3. The assembly of claim 2 , wherein a hose barb is disposed at the distal end of the shaft.4. The assembly of claim 2 , wherein the distal end of the shaft is connected to the drive line via an intermediate length of tubing.5. The assembly of claim 4 , wherein the shaft and driveline are easily connectable via manual manipulation by a practitioner without the assistance of a tool.6. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the locking component and the shaft are threadably attached.7. The assembly of claim 6 , wherein the locking component comprises female threads and the shaft comprised male threads.8. The assembly of claim 6 , wherein the locking component comprises male threads and the shaft comprises female threads.9. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the proximal end of the shaft is adapted to form a fluid tight seal with the locking component.10. The assembly of claim 9 , wherein proximal end of the shaft comprises an o-ring to provide the fluid tight seal.11. The assembly of ...

Adaptive Speed Control Algorithms and Controllers for Optimizing Flow in Ventricular Assist Devices

Method and systems control a rotational speed of a blood pump during ventricular diastole. A method includes controlling a blood pump in accordance with a first segment operational mode. A controller monitors the blood flow rate through the blood pump. The controller determines, based on the blood flow rate, whether continued controlling of the blood pump per the first segment operational mode would result in the blood flow rate through the blood pump being less than a target minimum blood flow rate. In response to a determination that continued controlling of the blood pump per the first segment operational mode would result in the blood flow rate through the blood pump being less than the target minimum blood flow rate, the controller controls the rotational speed of the blood pump so that the blood flow rate through the blood pump is approximate to the target minimum blood flow rate. 117.-. (canceled)18. A mechanical circulatory assist system comprising:a continuous flow blood pump implantable in fluid communication with a ventricle and an artery of a patient to assist blood flow from the ventricle to the artery; anda controller operatively connected to the blood pump and operable to:control a rotation speed of the blood pump to pump blood from the ventricle to the artery over a first segment of a cardiac cycle of the patient, the rotation rate of the blood pump over the first segment being controlled in accordance with a first segment operational mode for the blood pump;monitor the blood flow rate through the blood pump;based on the monitored blood flow rate through the blood pump, determine whether continuing to control the rotation rate of the blood pump over a second segment of the cardiac cycle in accordance with the first segment operational mode would result in the blood flow rate through the blood pump being less than a target minimum blood flow rate; andin response to determining that continuing to control the rotation rate of the blood pump over the ...

Device for treatment of aneurysm

A device for treating a vascular aneurysm of a human or mammal patient, comprising an implantable member adapted to hold fluid, the implantable member being adapted to be placed against an outside of a blood vessel having the aneurysm, exercise a pressure on the aneurysm to prevent or reduce an expansion of the aneurysm, follow an outer contour of the aneurysm, and provide a pressure that is equal or less than the diastolic blood pressure of the human or mammal patient.

Systems and methods for treating pulmonary hypertension

A system for treating heart disease, such as pulmonary hypertension or right heart failure, including an implantable component and external components for monitoring the implantable component is provided. The implantable component may include a compliant member, e.g., balloon, coupled to a reservoir via a conduit. Preferably, the compliant member is adapted to be implanted in a pulmonary artery and the reservoir is adapted to be implanted subcutaneously. The external components may include a clinical controller component, monitoring software configured to run a clinician's computer, a patient monitoring device, and a mobile application configured to run on a patient's mobile device.

COUNTERPULSATION DEVICE DRIVER APPARATUS, METHOD AND SYSTEM

A method of operating a counterpulsation device (CPD) in a human or animal subject is disclosed, the method including: receiving a heart beat signal indicative of the heart beat of the subject; providing counterpulsation therapy by controlling the pressure supplied to a CPD drive line in pneumatic communication with the CPD to cause the CPD to alternately fill with blood and eject blood with a timing that is determined at least in part based on the heart beat signal; while providing counterpulsation therapy, receiving a CPD drive line pressure signal indicative of the pressure in the CPD drive line; and adjusting the pressure supplied to the drive line based at least in part on the drive line pressure signal. 1. A method of operating a counterpulsation device (CPD) in a human or animal subject , the method comprising:receiving a heart beat signal indicative of the heart beat of the subject;providing counterpulsation therapy by controlling the pressure supplied to a CPD drive line in pneumatic communication with the CPD to cause the CPD to alternately fill with blood and eject blood with a timing that is determined at least in part based on the heart beat signal;while providing counterpulsation therapy, receiving a CPD drive line pressure signal indicative of the pressure in the CPD drive line; andadjusting the pressure supplied to the drive line based at least in part on the drive line pressure signal.214-. (canceled)15. An apparatus for controlling the operation of a counterpulsation device (CPD) in a human or animal subject , the apparatus comprising a controller configured to:receive a heart beat signal indicative of the heart beat of the subject;provide counterpulsation therapy by controlling the pressure supplied to a CPD drive line in pneumatic communication with the CPD to cause the CPD to alternately fill with blood and eject blood with a timing that is determined at least in part based on the heart beat signal;while providing counterpulsation therapy, ...

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR DIASTOLIC ASSIST

The devices and method described herein allow for therapeutic damage to increase volume in these hyperdynamic hearts to allow improved physiology and ventricular filling and to reduce diastolic filling pressure by making the ventricle less stiff. For example, improving a diastolic heart function in a heart by creating at least one incision in cardiac muscle forming an interior heart wall of the interior chamber where the at least one incision extends into one or more layers of the interior heart wall without puncturing through the interior heart wall and the incision is sufficient to reduce a stiffness of the interior chamber to increase volume of the chamber and reduce diastolic filing pressure. 1positioning a medical device within a body of the patient;advancing the medical device into an interior chamber of the heart;creating at least one incision in cardiac muscle forming an interior heart wall of the interior chamber without cutting through the interior heart wall, where the incision is sufficient to reduce a stiffness of the interior chamber to increase volume of the chamber and reduce diastolic filing pressure.. A method of improving a diastolic heart function in a heart of a patient having diastolic heart dysfunction, the method comprising: This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/719,347, filed on Sep. 28, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/176,564, filed on Feb. 10, 2014, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/277,158, filed on Oct. 19, 2011, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 61/394,759 filed on Oct. 19, 2010; 61/478,495 filed on Apr. 23, 2011; and 61/504,641 filed on Jul. 5, 2011, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.Congestive heart failure (CHF) in the United States has a prevalence of approximately 5.8 million people and an incidence of approximately 550,000 people annually. CHF is a rapidly growing ...

INTRA-AORTIC DUAL BALLOON DRIVING PUMP CATHETER DEVICE

An intra-aortic dual balloon driving pump catheter device having a catheter; a first balloon and a second balloon respectively surrounding the catheter, being arranged successively along the longitudinal direction of the catheter, wherein the position of the first balloon is placed at the distal end of the catheter, and the second balloon is placed immediately adjacent to the proximal end of the first balloon; the first balloon and the second balloon are periodically expanded to a dimension that nearly blocks the aortic blood flow and contracted to a dimension that does not prevent the blood flow from passing through; wherein the first balloon periodically inflates in diastole and deflates in systole working as a pump, while the second balloon conversely deflates in systole and inflates in diastole functioning as a valve, altogether leading to blood pumping from contracting ventricle and keeping driving forward ahead in the aorta. 1. An intra-aortic dual balloon driving pump catheter device , which comprises: a first balloon and a second balloon, respectively surrounding the catheter, being arranged successively along the longitudinal direction of the catheter, wherein the first balloon is a counterpulsation balloon, being placed at the distal end of the catheter, and the second balloon is a valve balloon, being placed immediately adjacent to the proximal end of the first balloon and is closer to the proximal end of the catheter than the first balloon;', 'a monitoring part, for monitoring the cardiac cycle and the arterial pressure of the catheter end;', 'air pumps, respectively associated with the first balloon and the second balloon, for supplying and withdrawing air;', 'a first intake pipe and a second intake pipe, one end of which is in communication with the first balloon and the second balloon respectively, and the other end of which is in communication with the respectively associated air pump;', 'a controlling part, adapted to control the air pumps to ...

TREE-BASED DATA EXPLORATION AND DATA-DRIVEN PROTOCOL

A method for providing a treatment recommendation to a physician for treating a patient is disclosed. The method comprises determining, from a processor in communication with a patient data repository, a first treatment recommendation based on a combination of selected patient demographics from the patient data repository applicable to the patient, and operational parameters of a plurality of ventricular assist devices (VADs) suitable for treating the patient, the first treatment recommendation having a first survival rate and comprising the use of a first VAD. The method then obtains a first signal from using the first VAD on the patient. The method then determines a second treatment recommendation based on the first signal and the first treatment recommendation, the second treatment recommendation having a second survival rate. The method then provides the second treatment recommendation to the physician if the second survival rate is higher than the first survival rate. 1. A method for providing a treatment recommendation to a physician for treating a patient , the method comprising:determining, from a processor in communication with a patient data repository, a first treatment recommendation based on a combination of selected patient demographics from the patient data repository applicable to the patient and operational parameters of a plurality of ventricular assist devices (VADs) suitable for treating the patient, the first treatment recommendation having a first survival rate and comprising the use of a first VAD;using the first VAD to treat the patient;obtaining, from a controller, a first signal;determining, by the processor, a second treatment recommendation based on the first signal and the first treatment recommendation, the second treatment recommendation having a second survival rate; andproviding, by the processor, the second treatment recommendation to the physician if the second survival rate is higher than the first survival rate.2. The method of ...

INTRACARDIAC PUMPING DEVICE

The invention relates to an intercardiac pump device comprising a pump () whose distal end () is connected to a cannula () which is provided with a suction head () for sucking blood. Said strainer is provided with a non-sucking extension () for stabilising the position of said pump device in the heart and mechanically prolonging the cannula () without deteriorating hydraulic conditions. Said extension is also used in the form of a spacer in order to avoid that the suction head () adheres to a cardiac wall. 19-. (canceled)10. An intracardiac percutaneous blood pump comprising:a catheter having an outer diameter and proximal and distal regions;a cannula coupled to the distal region of the catheter and configured to extend across a heart valve, the cannula comprising an expansible suction head with a blood inlet and having an initial state with a first outer diameter and an expanded state with a second outer diameter, the second outer diameter being larger than the first outer diameter and the outer diameter of the catheter;an impeller for pumping blood into the blood inlet; anda flexible atraumatic projection coupled to the expansible suction head, the flexible atraumatic projection being positioned distal to the expansible suction head and being configured to space the blood inlet away from interior heart walls;wherein the flexible atraumatic projection has a fixed outer diameter when the expansible suction head is in the initial state and retains that fixed outer diameter when the expansible suction head is in the expanded state.11. The blood pump of claim 10 , wherein the catheter claim 10 , cannula claim 10 , and flexible atraumatic projection share a common longitudinal axis.12. The blood pump of claim 11 , wherein the fixed outer diameter of the flexible atraumatic projection is smaller than the second outer diameter of the expansible suction head.13. The blood pump of claim 12 , wherein the expansible suction head includes a plurality of flexible struts that ...

HEART SUPPORT DEVICE

Heart support device for circulatory assistance, with an internal member () to be disposed inside a heart lumen () and having a dynamic volume body. The internal member () has a substantially stiff wall strengthening portion () arranged to engage an inner wall surface () of the heart () in operation and a dynamic member () that is inflatable to assist pumping action of the heart (). 1. Heart support device for circulatory assistance , comprising an internal member to be disposed inside a heart lumen and having a dynamic volume body , the internal member having a substantially stiff wall strengthening portion arranged to engage an inner wall surface of the heart in operation and a dynamic member that is inflatable to assist pumping action of the heart.2. Heart support device according to claim 1 , wherein the wall strengthening portion is expandable.3. Heart support device according to claim 2 , wherein the wall strengthening portion comprises an inflatable cup shaped body.4. Heart support device according to claim 1 , wherein the internal member further comprises one or more positioning members.5. Heart support device according to claim 1 , wherein the internal member is attached to a catheter.6. Heart support device according to claim 1 , wherein the wall strengthening portion comprises an inflatable base chamber configured for expanding the base portion into a static inflated state in the heart lumen.7. Heart support device according to claim 6 , wherein the base chamber of the wall strengthening portion is inflatable with a liquid medium claim 6 , a gel claim 6 , or a powder.8. Heart support device according to claim 1 , wherein the dynamic member comprises a stretchable membrane forming a balloon chamber.9. Heart support device according to claim 8 , wherein the stretchable membrane is hermetically attached to the wall strengthening portion along a circumferential portion thereof claim 8 , the stretchable membrane and the wall strengthening portion forming the ...

Intra-aortic spiral balloon pump

An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is provided that has a series of spiral pleats that function to control the wash of blood associated with an inflation cycle. Additionally, the torsional expansion increases the net efficiency of the IABP relative to a conventional cylindrically shaped balloon. The inflating membrane is textured to promote natural growth of a biologic lining on the surface of the indwelling pump to reduce the need for anticoagulation and the risk of thromboembolic events; promote washing of the surface to minimize stasis and thrombus formation; minimize strain on the IABP; minimize elongation radially and longitudinally to avoid fatigue of the IABP; minimize stretching and stress distribution along a balloon; promote a sweeping effect through the channels in the non-expanded state to wash the surface; or a combination thereof.

ELECTROACTIVE ACTUATORS

The invention relates to actuators based on electroactive polymeric materials for use in pumping fluids or in other applications where a contractile actuation is required, in particular although not necessarily exclusively for use in vascular pulsation devices such as a variable aortic tension device. Embodiments disclosed include an actuator () comprising: an inner tubular structure (); an outer tubular structure () surrounding the inner tubular structure () and comprising a plurality of layers of a dielectric elastomeric material () and a tubular elastic support structure (), the elastic support structure () configured to maintain a pre-stress in the layers of the dielectric elastomeric material (), wherein the outer tubular structure () is configured to contract in a radial direction around the inner tubular structure () upon application of an actuation voltage signal across the dielectric elastomeric material layers (). 1. An actuator comprising:an inner tubular structure;an outer tubular structure surrounding the inner tubular structure and comprising a plurality of layers of a dielectric elastomeric material and a tubular elastic support structure, the elastic support structure configured to maintain a pre-stress in the layers of the dielectric elastomeric material,wherein the outer tubular structure is configured to contract in a radial direction around the inner tubular structure upon application of an actuation voltage signal across the dielectric elastomeric material layers.2. The actuator of wherein the tubular elastic support structure comprises a plurality of layers alternating with one or more of the plurality of layers of the dielectric elastomeric material.3. The actuator of wherein the tubular elastic support structure comprises an auxetic structure configured such that a ratio between expansion in the circumferential direction and contraction in the axial direction of the tubular elastic support structure when unconstrained is zero or negative.4. ...

METHOD AND COMPUTER SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING A HEART SENSOR OUTPUT

The disclosure relates to a method and system for processing a heart sensor output, wherein a blood flow and a simulated aortic blood pressure are derived from a sensed blood pressure using an arterial flow model and values for arterial flow parameters. The simulated aortic blood pressure is matched to a part of the sensed blood pressure in the cardiac cycle by manipulating at least one of the values for the arterial flow parameters of the arterial flow model. 1. A method for processing a heart sensor output including a sensed blood pressure in a heart-related cavity over a cardiac cycle of a heart , the method comprising the steps of:deriving blood flow from the sensed blood pressure or a derivative thereof by using an arterial flow model and setting one or more values for arterial flow parameters for the arterial flow model;deriving a simulated aortic blood pressure from the derived blood flow using the arterial flow model and the set values for the arterial flow parameters; andmatching the simulated aortic blood pressure to a part of the sensed blood pressure or the derivative thereof in the cardiac cycle by manipulating at least one of the values for the arterial flow parameters of the arterial flow model.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the heart related cavity is the aorta and the sensed blood pressure is the sensed aortic blood pressure claim 1 , further comprising obtaining the derivative of the sensed aortic blood pressure by suppressing the sensed aortic blood pressure during a time interval of a diastolic stage of the cardiac cycle.3. The method according to claim 2 , wherein the sensed aortic pressure is affected by a heart assist device during the time interval claim 2 , further comprising matching the simulated aortic blood pressure to the sensed aortic blood pressure in the cardiac cycle outside the time interval.4. The method according to claim 3 , further comprising determining the time interval by monitoring the heart assist device.5. ...

INTRA-VENTRICULAR PULSATILE ASSIST SYSTEM (IV-PAS)

An intra-ventricular pulsatile assist system is provided including an intra-ventricular blood pump including a chamber having a distal portion and a proximal portion opposite the distal portion, the proximal portion and the distal portion defining an axis extending therebetween and the distal portion defining an outlet; a valve at the distal portion of the chamber, the valve including a closed position in which the outlet is sealed and an open position in which the outlet is unsealed; and a control circuit including a processor in communication with the blood pump, the processor having processing circuitry configured to determine a pressure value in the chamber and transition the valve between the closed position and the open position when the pressure value in the chamber deviates from a predetermined threshold value. 1. An intra-ventricular pulsatile assist system comprising: a chamber having a distal portion and a proximal portion opposite the distal portion, the proximal portion and the distal portion defining an axis extending therebetween and the distal portion defining an outlet;', 'a valve at the distal portion of the chamber, the valve including a closed position in which the outlet is sealed and an open position in which the outlet is unsealed; and', 'a control circuit including a processor in communication with the blood pump, the processor having processing circuitry configured to:', 'determine a pressure value in the chamber; and', 'transition the valve between the closed position and the open position when the pressure value in the chamber deviates from a predetermined threshold value., 'an intra-ventricular blood pump including2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined threshold value is a target pressure value for the chamber associated with a condition of a heart of a patient claim 1 , and the chamber is of an expandable material.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined threshold value is a predetermined time interval ...

A device and a method for providing resuscitation or suspended state in cardiac arrest

Disclosed is a device for providing resuscitation or suspended state through redistribution of cardiac output to increase supply to the brain and heart for a patient. The device includes an electrically controllable redistribution component attachable to the patient to provide redistribution of the cardiac output to increase supply to the brain and heart. The redistribution component, following a predefined reaction pattern based on an electrical signal, and computer means configured to: receive a patient data which identifies physiological and/or anatomical characteristics of the patent; and provide the electrical signal for the redistribution component based on the patient data or a standard response. The device may provide mechanisms to protect the aorta and the remaining anatomy of the patient from inadvertent damage caused by the disclosed device in any usage scenario of either correct intended usage or unintended usage. Also disclosed is a method for providing resuscitation or suspended state. 1. A device for providing resuscitation or suspended state through redistribution of cardiac output to increase supply to the brain and heart for a patient , the device comprisingan electrically or manually controllable redistribution component attachable to the patient and being configured to interact with the patient to provide redistribution of the cardiac output to increase supply to the brain and heart, the redistribution component following a predefined reaction pattern based on an electrical signal, and receive a patient data which identifies physiological and/or anatomical characteristics of the patient; and', 'provide the electrical signal for controlling the redistribution component and/or for presenting the physiological and/or anatomical characteristics for a user based on the patient data or a standard response., 'computer means configured to2. The device according to claim 1 , where the computer means comprises memory means having stored therein a ...

DELIVERY SYSTEMS HAVING A TEMPORARY VALVE AND METHODS OF USE

A delivery system for percutaneously delivering a heart valve prosthesis to a site of a native heart valve includes a delivery catheter and a heart valve prosthesis. The delivery catheter includes an outer sheath, an inner shaft, and an orifice restriction mechanism. The heart valve prosthesis has a valve member and a docking member. When the orifice restriction mechanism is positioned within the docking member within an annulus of the native heart valve, the orifice restriction mechanism temporarily replicates the operation of the native heart valve until the valve member is positioned within the docking member. 1. A delivery system for percutaneously delivering a heart valve prosthesis to a site of a native heart valve , the delivery system comprising: an outer sheath;', 'an inner shaft slidably disposed within the outer sheath; and', 'an orifice restriction mechanism coupled to a distal portion of the inner shaft, wherein the orifice restriction mechanism has a first state and an inflated second state; and, 'a delivery catheter includinga heart valve prosthesis including a valve member having a radially collapsed configuration and a radially expanded configuration, and a docking member having a radially collapsed configuration and a radially expanded configuration,wherein the orifice restriction mechanism is configured to be positioned within the docking member of the heart valve prosthesis after the docking member is in the radially expanded configuration within an annulus of the native heart valve, and wherein the orifice restriction mechanism is configured to temporarily replicate the operation of the native heart valve until the valve member is positioned within the docking member.2. The delivery system of claim 1 , wherein the orifice restriction mechanism is configured to temporarily replicate the operation of the native heart valve by alternating between the first state and the inflated second state.3. The delivery system of claim 1 , wherein the heart ...

Systems and methods for system identification

The systems and methods described herein determine metrics of cardiac or vascular performance, such as cardiac output, and can use the metrics to determine appropriate levels of mechanical circulatory support to be provided to the patient. The systems and methods described determine cardiac performance by determining aortic pressure measurements (or other physiologic measurements) within a single heartbeat or across multiple heartbeats and using such measurements in conjunction with flow estimations or flow measurements made during the single heartbeat or multiple heartbeats to determine the cardiac performance, including determining the cardiac output. By utilizing a mechanical circulatory support system placed within the vasculature, the need to place a separate measurement device within a patient is reduced or eliminated. The system and methods described herein may characterize cardiac performance without altering the operation of the heart pump (e.g., without increasing or decreasing pump speed).

Methods, Systems, and Devices Relating to a Fail-Safe Pump for a Medical Device

The various embodiments herein relate to pumps for use with various medical devices. The pumps can be positive displacement pumps or gear pumps. Each pump has at least one fluid transfer opening defined in the pump that allows for transfer of fluid at a predetermined flow rate that provides for deflation of the device in a predetermined amount of time.

Catheter

The invention relates to a catheter for the directional conductance of a body fluid, particularly blood. The catheter includes a line segment which has a film tube defining an inner volume. A first port connects the inner volume to an external volume and a second port, arranged distally from the first port, connects the inner volume with the external volume. During operation of the catheter, the body fluid is conducted in the inner volume directionally between the first and second ports. The line segment includes a reinforcement running in the interior of the film tube. The film tube has a foldable section, a connecting region whereat the film tube is connected to the reinforcement, and a stabilized section having a structured profile.

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING INTRA CARDIAC FILLING PRESSURES, HEART RATE, AND CARDIAC OUTPUT

Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for optimizing intracardiac filling pressures and cardiac output in patients with heart failure, conduction disease, and atrial fibrillation. The system is able to adjust and optimize intracardiac filling pressures and cardiac output by adjusting heart rate and the effective amount of total body blood volume. The device includes an adjustable member that may create a mean pressure differential in order to manifest an effective “mechanical diuresis” by sequestering extraneous blood volume to the high-capacitance of the venous vasculature. The system is therefore designed to reduce intracardiac filling pressures while maintaining or even increasing cardiac output. 1. A system to be implanted in the body of a patient with conduction disease and/or heart failure configured to monitor and/or treat the patient , the system comprising:at least one sensor configured to provide sensor data corresponding to pressures within or near the patient's heart;at least one adjustable component configured to create a pressure gradient o blood flow within or near the patient's heart;at least one pacing component configured to at least one of sense and pace the patient's heart; anda controller configured for adjusting the function of at least one component based at least in part on sensor data from the at least one sensor.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one additional sensor configured to provide sensor data corresponding to the stroke volume or cardiac output of the patient's heart.3. The system of claim 2 , further wherein the at least one additional sensor comprises a plurality of electrodes configured to measure changes in electrical impedance that correlate with changes in blood volume.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the controller is coupled to the plurality of electrodes and configured to estimate cardiac output of the patient's heart by measuring the changes in electrical impedance from the plurality of ...

METHOD FOR OPERATING A SUPPLY DEVICE WHICH SUPPLIES A LIQUID TO A CHANNEL, AND SUPPLY DEVICE, HOLLOW CATHETER, AND CATHETER PUMP

The present invention relates to a supply device for a channel (), in particular within a hollow catheter (), and to a method for operating a supply device of this type that supplies a channel () with a liquid and has two pumps () arranged at points of the channel distanced from one another, characterised in that the parameter values of at least one operating parameter of both pumps are coordinated with one another in a controlled manner. As a result of the method, interruption-free and precisely controllable operation is to be ensured with simple structural means, in particular in the case of use of wear-free diaphragm pumps. 121-. (canceled)22. A hollow catheter with a channel and with a supply device for supplying the channel with a liquid , diaphragm pump; and', 'a control device, which controls the diaphragm pump in respect of a generated pressure and/or a delivery rate; and, 'wherein the supply device compriseswherein a sensor is assigned to the diaphragm pump, said sensor being a liquid pressure sensor, an electric sensor for detecting the power consumption of the diaphragm pump, or a flow rate sensor.23. The hollow catheter of claim 22 , comprising one or more further diaphragms pump claim 22 , wherein:said diaphragm pump and said one or more further diaphragm pumps are arranged at points of the channel distanced from one another;the control device is configured to control each of the diaphragm pump and the one or more further diaphragm pumps individually in respect of the generated pressure and/or the delivery rate;a sensor is assigned to each of one or more further diaphragm pumps;wherein, each of the sensors assigned to the one or more further diaphragm pumps is one of a liquid pressure sensor, an electric sensor for detecting the power consumption of the second diaphragm pump, and a flow rate sensor.24. A catheter pump containing a hollow catheter according to .25. The catheter pump of claim 24 , configured for intraventricular operation within a heart. ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ASSISTING CARDIAC FUNCTION

Devices and methods for assisting cardiac function. In an exemplary embodiment of a device for assisting heart function of the present disclosure, the device comprises a first plate and an opposing second plate, each plate having an inner surface, a cardiac processor coupled to at least one of the first plate and the second plate, a bladder having an inner chamber and disposed between the inner surfaces, and a first catheter having a proximal end in communication with the inner chamber of the bladder and a distal end having a first pericardial balloon coupled thereto, wherein a gas and/or a liquid within the inner chamber of the bladder can be injected into the first pericardial balloon upon compression of the first plate relative to the second plate, and wherein the gas and/or the liquid can be removed from the first pericardial balloon upon retraction of the first plate relative to the second plate. 1. A method of assisting heart function , the method comprising the step of: a first catheter having a proximal end in communication with the source of the gas and/or the liquid and a distal end having a first pericardial balloon coupled thereto, and', 'a second catheter having a proximal end in communication with a portion of the device and a distal end having a second pericardial balloon coupled thereto;, 'introducing at least part of a device for assisting heart function into a pericardial space surrounding a heart, the device comprisingwherein the introducing step is performed to position at least one of the first pericardial balloon and/or the second pericardial balloon into the pericardial space.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the introducing step is performed to position the first pericardial balloon into the pericardial space at or near a first heart chamber claim 1 , and wherein the method further comprises the step of:introducing a gas and/or a liquid into the first pericardial balloon so that the first pericardial balloon exerts pressure upon the first ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING PULMONARY HYPERTENSION

A system for treating heart disease, such as pulmonary hypertension or right heart failure, including an implantable component and external components for monitoring the implantable component is provided. The implantable component may include a compliant member, e.g., balloon, coupled to a reservoir via a conduit. Preferably, the compliant member is adapted to be implanted in a pulmonary artery and the reservoir is adapted to be implanted subcutaneously. The external components may include a clinical controller component, monitoring software configured to run a clinician's computer, a patient monitoring device, and a mobile application configured to run on a patient's mobile device. 1. A system for treating pulmonary hypertension , the system comprising:a compliant member sized and shaped to be implanted in a pulmonary artery, the compliant member configured to expand and contract responsive to pressure changes in the pulmonary artery;a reservoir in fluidic communication with the compliant member;a conduit extending between and coupling the compliant member and the reservoir;an external clinical controller comprising a fluidic connector configured to be coupled to the reservoir for introduction of fluid into the reservoir; anda sensor associated with the external clinical controller, the sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of an amount of the fluid introduced from the external clinical controller.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the external clinical controller further comprises a fluid source configured to hold the fluid to be introduced into the reservoir through the fluidic connector when the fluidic connector is in fluidic communication with the reservoir.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the external clinical controller further comprises a fluid movement mechanism configured to move the fluid from the fluid source through the fluidic connector or to extract fluid from the reservoir through the fluidic connector or both.4. The system of claim 3 ...

Implantable Device Utilizing Arterial Deformation

The present invention relates to deforming a patient's artery. In a preferred embodiment, the deformation pressure is applied to the outer wall of the artery. 1. An implantable device , comprising:(a) a substantially inelastic shell comprising an outer surface and an inner surface, wherein the shell is curved such that the inner surface is substantially concave;(b) a flexible membrane sealingly coupled to the shell, wherein an inflatable space is defined between the flexible membrane and the inner surface, wherein the flexible membrane has a deflated configuration and an inflated configuration, wherein the inflated configuration is a smoothly curved ovate projection;(c) a port associated with the outer surface of the shell, wherein an interior portion of the port is in fluid communication with the inflatable space; and(d) a wrap coupled to the outer surface of the shell, the wrap configured to be removeably positionable around a portion of a patient's artery such that the flexible membrane is configured to be held against the artery, wherein the device has no other component or structure for holding the device against the artery,wherein the shell is configured to extend around only a portion of the circumference of the artery.2. The implantable device of claim 1 , wherein the flexible membrane is substantially inelastic.3. The implantable device of claim 1 , wherein the port is configured to be coupleable to a motive component.4. The implantable device of claim 1 , wherein a fluid is disposed within the inflatable space in the inflated configuration.5. The implantable device of claim 4 , wherein the fluid is a liquid.6. The implantable device of claim 1 , wherein the smooth curved ovate projection is configured to cause the artery to flex into a conic shape defined by a continuous line.7. The implantable device of claim 1 , wherein the smooth curved ovate projection is configured to cause the artery to flex substantially without stretching a wall of the artery.8. An ...

INTRACARDIAC PUMPING DEVICE

The invention relates to an intercardiac pump device comprising a pump () whose distal end () is connected to a cannula () which is provided with a suction head () for sucking blood. Said strainer is provided with a non-sucking extension () for stabilising the position of said pump device in the heart and mechanically prolonging the cannula () without deteriorating hydraulic conditions. Said extension is also used in the form of a spacer in order to avoid that the suction head () adheres to a cardiac wall. 19-. (canceled)10. An intracardiac pumping device for percutaneous insertion comprising: a motor, and', 'a pump housing and impeller positioned distal of the motor and mechanically coupled to the motor;, 'a pump configured to be positioned within the vasculature of a patient, the pump comprisinga cannula positioned distal of the pump housing, the cannula comprising a distal suction head having inlet openings;a catheter having a distal end that operably extends to the motor and permits an electrical lead to pass into contact with the motor so that the impeller is rotatably driven by the motor, and a proximal end configured to extend the electrical lead to a controller located outside the patient; anda flexible atraumatic projection extending distally from a distal end of the suction head.11. The pumping device of claim 10 , wherein the catheter is configured so it can bend to extend over an aortic arch.12. The pumping device of claim 10 , wherein the controller is configured to operate the impeller to pump blood at a rate of 2 to 3 liters per minute.13. The pumping device of claim 10 , wherein the cannula is configured to extend across an aortic valve in a heart.14. The pumping device of claim 13 , wherein the inlet openings of the suction head are configured to be positioned in a left ventricle of the heart.15. The pumping device of claim 14 , wherein during systole the pump is configured to change position within the heart with respect to a position during ...

CARDIAC ASSIST DEVICE

A cardiac pump and an assist system is provided that increases blood ejection from a compromised heart. An implantable cardiac pump acting as an assist device provided includes an attachment system and locating features that enable a minimally invasive procedure to implant and deploy one or more aortic blood pumps in a patient. The insertable cardiac pump is replaceable without resort to a conventional open surgical procedure. Monitoring of cardiac pump operation allows for replacement in advane of chamber failure. The dynamics of blood-contacting interface of the cardiac assist device mimic the dynamics of the blood-contacting interface of a naturally occurring left ventricle, thereby minimizing flow-related device-associated pathologic disturbances of intravascular clotting mechanisms. A process of operating a cardiac assist device includes cyclically inflating and deflating one or more inflatable cardiac pumping chambers with timing and parameters as to pressure, deflection, and speed of inflation to in crease patient cardiac output. 1. A cardiac assist device comprising:a primary pumping element in mechanical communication with a securement positioned within a stent, where the stent is configured for placement within a vessel of a patient;a conduit external to the vessel, said conduit joined to said securement through a wall of the vessel;at least one locating feature on said securement; anda secondary pumping element insertable into said primary pumping element.2. The cardiac assist device of wherein said primary pumping element is expandable and non-distensible.3. The cardiac assist device of further comprising a securement device fitting around said conduit claim 1 , said securement device having complimentary location features to the at least one locating feature on said securement.4. The cardiac assist device of wherein said conduit has an aperture configured for insertion of an alignment probe therethrough.5. The cardiac assist device of wherein the at ...

COUNTERPULSATION DEVICE DRIVER APPARATUS, METHOD AND SYSTEM

A method of operating a counterpulsation device (CPD) in a human or animal subject is disclosed, the method including: receiving a heart beat signal indicative of the heart beat of the subject; providing counterpulsation therapy by controlling the pressure supplied to a CPD drive line in pneumatic communication with the CPD to cause the CPD to alternately fill with blood and eject blood with a timing that is determined at least in part based on the heart beat signal; while providing counterpulsation therapy, receiving a CPD drive line pressure signal indicative of the pressure in the CPD drive line; and adjusting the pressure supplied to the drive line based at least in part on the drive line pressure signal. 135.-. (canceled)36. An apparatus for controlling operation of a counterpulsation device (CPD) in a human or animal subject , the apparatus comprising a controller configured to:provide counterpulsation therapy by controlling pressure supplied to a CPD drive line;while providing counterpulsation therapy, receive a CPD drive line pressure signal indicative of the pressure in the CPD drive line; andadjust the pressure supplied to the drive line based at least in part on the drive line pressure signal, by performing at least one of: exposing the drive line to a negative pressure of a vacuum chamber and exposing the driveline to a positive pressure of a pressure chamber.37. The apparatus of claim 36 , wherein the CPD drive line is in pneumatic communication with the CPD.38. The apparatus of claim 36 , wherein the controller is further configured to receive a pressure upper limit corresponding to an upper limit of the pressure in the CPD drive line and a pressure lower limit corresponding to a lower limit of the pressure in the CPD drive line claim 36 , wherein the controller adjusts the pressure supplied to the CPD drive line by:in response to determining that the pressure in the CPD drive line exceeds the pressure upper limit, venting the pressure chamber until ...

PUMP DEVICE HAVING A DETECTION DEVICE

The invention relates to a pump device having a pump () and an energy supply device (), wherein the pump has a conveying element () which conveys a fluid by means of supplied energy, wherein the pump has a transport state and an operating state, and wherein at least one first element () of the pump has a different shape and/or size in the transport state than in the operating slate. The operating safety of such a pump device is increased by a detection device () which detects whether at least the first element is in the operating state with respect to shape and/or size by means of a sensor. 115-. (canceled)16. An intravascular pump device , comprising:a first catheter having a proximal end and a distal end;a pump head configured to compress into a compressed state and expand into an expanded state, wherein the pump head is configured to move within the first catheter and the pump head elastically expands into the expanded state upon release from the first catheter;the pump head having a rotor with impeller blades, the impeller blades being elastically compressible and automatically elastically expandable, wherein the impeller blades are configured to convey a fluid by a supplied energy; anda sensor configured to produce an output signal indicative of a load on the rotor.17. The pump device of claim 16 , wherein the sensor is configured to produce the output signal by detecting electrical current driving the rotor.18. The pump device of claim 16 , the intravascular pump device configured to modify a transfer of the supplied energy based on the output signal from the sensor.19. The pump device of claim 18 , wherein the intravascular pump device is configured to interrupt transfer of the supplied energy based on the output signal from the sensor.20. The pump device of claim 17 , wherein the detected electrical current is higher when the pump head is not in the expanded state than when the pump head is in the expanded state.21. The pump device of claim 17 , further ...

Apparatus for controlling the bio-mechanical ventricle-aorta matching

An apparatus for controlling pressure of a medical gas during treatment of a patient includes is a balloon () that through a catheter () is introducable into an arterial system of the patient, and a damping bag (), of greater volume than that of the balloon (), adapted to be loaded with medical gas at a compliance pressure (Pc) and placed in direct fluid communication with the balloon (). The damping bag () is kept in direct fluid communication with the balloon () for the entire duration of the treatment of the patient. The apparatus further includes fine adjusting means () for acting on the damping container in such a way that the compliance pressure (Pc) is maintained between the systolic pressure and the diastolic pressure of the patient when the balloon is introduced into the arterial system of the patient and during the treatment of the patient. 1. An apparatus for controlling pressure of a medical gas during treatment of a patient , comprising:{'b': 1', '2, 'a balloon (), or other intra-aortic device inflatable to a volume, that through a catheter () is introducable into an arterial system of the patient, the apparatus providing quantities of the medical gas at a controlled pressure to the balloon when introduced into the arterial system of the patient and during the treatment of the patient;'}{'b': 20', '5', '1', '20', '1, 'a container () that is loaded with the medical gas from a medical gas source (), at a compliance pressure (Pc), and set in direct fluid communication with the balloon () for the treatment of the patient when the balloon is introduced into the arterial system of the patient, wherein the container consists of a damping container () having the form of a damping bag, with the volume of the damping bag comprising a volume significantly greater than the volume of the balloon () when provided with the quantities of medical gas at the controlled pressure; and'}{'b': '30', 'fine adjusting means () for acting on the damping container in such that ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR LEFT VENTRICULAR UNLOADING IN TREATING MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION

We provide herein a method of preventing or limiting the effects of heart failure in a human patient that has sustained myocardial infarction by reducing maladaptive cardiac remodeling in the patient. The method comprises percutaneously inserting a transvalvular blood pump, comprising a rotor and a cannula, into the patient's vasculature and positioning the cannula across the aortic valve of the patient's heart, with a distal end of the cannula located in the left ventricle of the heart and a proximal end of the pump located in the aorta. The method then comprises, prior to reperfusing the heart, operating the positioned pump to unload the left ventricle at a pumping rate of at least 2.5 L/min of blood flow for a support period between at least 30 minutes and less than 60 minutes. Then, after the support period, the method comprises applying coronary reperfusion therapy to the heart. 1131-. (canceled)132. A method of supporting a human patient's heart that has sustained myocardial infarction , comprising the steps of:inserting a mechanical circulatory support device into the patient after the myocardial infarction, the mechanical circulatory support device comprising a cannula inserted into the heart across a valve;prior to re-perfusing the heart, operating the mechanical circulatory support device for a support period between at least 30 minutes and less than 60 minutes, at a rate of at least 2.5 L/min of blood flow; andafter the support period, applying reperfusion therapy to the heart.133. The method of claim 132 , wherein the mechanical circulatory support device is operated at a rate that provides a cardiac output of at least 3.5 L/min of blood flow.134. The method of claim 132 , wherein the heart is unloaded by the mechanical circulatory support device concurrently with reperfusion.135. The method of claim 132 , comprising the step of supporting the heart by an intra-aortic balloon pump or an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) pump claim 132 , in ...

COUNTERPULSATION DEVICE DRIVER APPARATUS, METHOD AND SYSTEM

A method of operating a counterpulsation device (CPD) in a human or animal subject is disclosed, the method including: receiving a heart beat signal indicative of the heart beat of the subject; providing counterpulsation therapy by controlling the pressure supplied to a CPD drive line in pneumatic communication with the CPD to cause the CPD to alternately fill with blood and eject blood with a timing that is determined at least in part based on the heart beat signal; while providing counterpulsation therapy, receiving a CPD drive line pressure signal indicative of the pressure in the CPD drive line; and adjusting the pressure supplied to the drive line based at least in part on the drive line pressure signal. 135-. (canceled)36. A system for providing hemodynamic support , the system comprising:a blood pump,a controller, anda counterpulsation device (CPD) comprising:a blood chamber,a drive chamber,a membrane configured to separate the blood chamber from the drive chamber, anda drive line in pneumatic communication with the drive chamber,wherein the controller is configured to:receive a heartbeat signal indicative of the heartbeat of the subject;control pressure supplied to the drive line to cause the CPD to alternately fill with blood and eject blood with a timing that is determined at least in part based on the heartbeat signal;receive a drive line pressure signal indicative of the pressure in the driveline; andadjust the pressure supplied to the drive line based at least in part on the driveline pressure signal, by performing at least one of: exposing the driveline to a negative pressure to fill the blood chamber as the heart of the subject is contracting and exposing the drive line to a positive pressure to empty the blood chamber as the heart is relaxing.37. The system of claim 36 , wherein the controller is further configured to receive a pressure upper limit corresponding to an upper limit of the pressure in the drive line and a pressure lower limit ...

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING INTRA CARDIAC FILLING PRESSURES, HEART RATE, AND CARDIAC OUTPUT

Apparatus, systems, and methods are provided for optimizing intracardiac filling pressures and cardiac output in patients with heart failure, conduction disease, and atrial fibrillation. The system is able to adjust and optimize intracardiac filling pressures and cardiac output by adjusting heart rate and the effective amount of total body blood volume. The device includes an adjustable member that may create a mean pressure differential in order to manifest an effective “mechanical diuresis” by sequestering extraneous blood volume to the high-capacitance of the venous vasculature. The system is therefore designed to reduce intracardiac filling pressures while maintaining or even increasing cardiac output. 1. A system to be implanted in the body of a patient with conduction disease and/or heart failure configured to monitor and/or treat the patient , the system comprising:at least one sensor configured to provide sensor data corresponding to pressures within or near the patient's heart;at least one adjustable component configured to create a pressure gradient o blood flow within or near the patient's heart;at least one pacing component configured to at least one of sense and pace the patient's heart; anda controller configured for adjusting the function of at east one component based at least in part on sensor data from the at least one sensor.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising at east one additional sensor configured to provide sensor data corresponding to the stroke volume or cardiac output of the patient's heart.3. The system of claim 2 , further wherein the at least one additional sensor comprises a plurality of electrodes configured to measure changes in electrical impedance that correlate with changes in blood volume.4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the controller s coupled to the plurality of electrodes and configured to estimate cardiac output of the patient's heart by measuring the changes in electrical impedance from the plurality of ...

Device for renal decongestion

Methods and apparatuses for pumping blood within a blood vessel are described. The methods and apparatuses are can be used for renal decongestion by pumping blood through the kidney(s), thereby increasing a pressure gradient across the kidney(s). The apparatuses can include one or more inflatable elements that can be repeatedly inflated and deflated to cause a pumping action within the blood vessel. In some embodiments, the one or more inflatable elements are positioned within one or more stents.

INTRACARDIAC PUMPING DEVICE

The invention relates to an intercardiac pump device comprising a pump () whose distal end () is connected to a cannula () which is provided with a suction head () for sucking blood. Said strainer is provided with a non-sucking extension () for stabilising the position of said pump device in the heart and mechanically prolonging the cannula () without deteriorating hydraulic conditions. Said extension is also used in the form of a spacer in order to avoid that the suction head () adheres to a cardiac wall. 1. An intracardiac pumping device for percutaneous insertion , comprising a pump connected at the proximal end with a catheter and at the suction-side distal end with a cannula having inlet openings remote from the pump , characterized in that a flexible projection is provided at the cannula distal of the inlet openings.29-. (canceled) The invention relates to an intracardiac pumping device adapted to be fully inserted into the heart via adjoining vessels to assist the natural cardiac pump function or to replace the same by a continuous pumping operation.Intracardiac blood pumps inserted percutaneously into a patient's body are highly miniaturized. They comprise a cylindrical drive portion and a cylindrical pump portion. The intake end of the pump portion is provided with a flexible canula having a suction head with lateral inlet openings at the distal end. Such a pumping device is described in EP 0 916 359 A1 (Impella). Another pumping device conveying in the distal direction is described in WO 99/58170 (Impella). In this pumping device, the pumping portion is prolonged by a flexible canula adapted to be passed through a cardiac valve. A catheter projects from the distal end of the canula, at which catheter a balloon is provided which is to be entrained by the blood flow in the body when the pumping device is inserted.A pumping device that takes in blood through a canula and then feeds it proximally can be placed such that it leads through the aortic valve, the ...

Methods of Administering Inhaled Nitric Oxide Gas

The invention relates methods of reducing the risk or preventing the occurrence of an adverse event (AE) or a serious adverse event (SAE) associated with a medical treatment comprising inhalation of nitric oxide. 130-. (canceled)31. A method for treating a pediatric patient who is experiencing pulmonary hypertension and oxygen desaturation , and who is not dependent on right-to-left shunting of blood , the method comprising: (a) if the patient does not have pre-existing left ventricular dysfunction, administering to the patient 20 ppm inhaled nitric oxide for a length of time sufficient to decrease pulmonary hypertension and improve oxygen saturation in the patient, and', '(b) if the patient does have pre-existing left ventricular dysfunction, administering inhaled supplemental oxygen to the patient and excluding the patient from treatment with inhaled nitric oxide., 'determining whether the patient has pre-existing left ventricular dysfunction, and'}32. A method for treating a pediatric patient who is experiencing oxygen desaturation associated with pulmonary hypertension , and who is not dependent on right-to-left shunting of blood , the method comprising: (a) if the patient does not have pre-existing left ventricular dysfunction, administering to the patient 20 ppm inhaled nitric oxide and supplemental oxygen for a length of time sufficient to decrease pulmonary hypertension and improve oxygen saturation in the patient, and', '(b) if the patient does have pre-existing left ventricular dysfunction, administering inhaled supplemental oxygen to the patient and excluding the patient from treatment with inhaled nitric oxide., 'determining whether the patient has pre-existing left ventricular dysfunction, and'}33. A method for treating a pediatric patient who is experiencing oxygen desaturation associated with pulmonary hypertension , and who is not dependent on right-to-left shunting of blood , the method comprising: (a) if the patient does not have pre-existing left ...

PUMP FOR RIGHT ATRIUM

Apparatus and methods are described, including apparatus () for implanting in a heart of a human subject. The apparatus includes an interatrial anchor () shaped to define an opening () having a diameter of 4-8 mm, and a bag () in fluid communication with the opening of the anchor. The apparatus is shaped to fit within a right atrium of the heart of the subject, and has a capacity of between 4 and 20 cm3. Other applications are also described. 1. Apparatus for implanting in a heart of a human subject , the apparatus comprising:an interatrial anchor shaped to define an opening having a diameter of 4-8 mm; and during atrial diastole, blood from a left atrium of the heart of the subject is received through the interatrial anchor into the bag, and', 'during atrial systole, musculature of the right atrium compresses the bag to pump the blood into the left atrium., 'the apparatus (a) having a capacity of between 4 and 20 cm3 and (b) being shaped to fit within a right atrium of the heart of the subject such that, when implanted, 'a bag in fluid communication with the opening of the anchor,'}2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein a greatest length of the apparatus is between 4 and 15 cm.3. (canceled)4. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a shunt disposed between the anchor and the bag.5. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the capacity of the apparatus is between 8 and 20 cm3.6. (canceled)7. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the bag is inelastic.8. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the bag is capable of withstanding an internal pressure of 200 mmHg without stretching.9. The apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a bag anchor configured to anchor the bag to the right atrium of the subject.10. The apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the bag anchor is configured to anchor the bag to a right atrial appendage of the subject.11. The apparatus according to claim 9 , wherein the bag anchor comprises an ...

BLOOD PUMP DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS

The present technology provides a blood pump device and associated systems and methods of use thereof to assist blood circulation in a patient. The blood pump device includes a flexible member disposed within a housing. Movement of the flexible member in the housing varies the volume of chambers within the housing and effectuates pumping of blood to and from a vessel in fluid connection with a chamber of the blood pump device. 1. A system for pumping blood , the system comprising: a housing defining an internal reservoir having a volume;', 'a flexible member disposed within the internal reservoir defining a first chamber and a second chamber; and', 'an outlet portion fluidly coupled to the first chamber; and, 'a blood pump device includingan actuator mechanism configured to transform the blood pump device from a first configuration to a second configuration by causing the flexible member to at least partially move;wherein the first chamber has a first volume that is substantially null in the first configuration, and wherein the first chamber has a second volume greater than the first volume in the second configuration.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the actuator mechanism is configured to be positioned external to a patient's body.3. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a skin interface device configured to facilitate access to the housing and/or flexible membrane from outside of the patient's body claim 1 , wherein the actuator mechanism is configured to connect to the housing and/or to the flexible membrane via the skin interface device.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the actuator mechanism is configured to be positioned inside a patient's body.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the actuator mechanism is connected to the blood pump device by a wire or other physical connection.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the actuator mechanism is configured to wirelessly communicate with the pump device.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the flexible membrane ...

Method for operating a supply device which supplies a liquid to a channel, and supply device, hollow catheter, and catheter pump

The present invention relates to a supply device for a channel ( 8 ), in particular within a hollow catheter ( 1 ), and to a method for operating a supply device of this type that supplies a channel ( 8 ) with a liquid and has two pumps ( 10, 19 ) arranged at points of the channel distanced from one another, characterised in that the parameter values of at least one operating parameter of both pumps are coordinated with one another in a controlled manner. As a result of the method, interruption-free and precisely controllable operation is to be ensured with simple structural means, in particular in the case of use of wear-free diaphragm pumps.

VENTRICULAR VOLUME REDUCTION

Devices and systems including implants (which may be removable) and methods of using them for reducing ventricular volume. The implants described herein are cardiac implants that may be inserted into a patient's heart, particularly the left ventricle. The implant may support the heart wall, or may be secured to the heart wall. The implants are typically ventricular partitioning device for partitioning the ventricle into productive and non-productive regions in order to reduce the ventricular volume. 1. A catheter for retrieving an implant having one or more anchoring members from a patient , the catheter comprising:an elongate shaft having a tubular body;a flexible region coupled to a distal end of the elongate shaft; anda distal tip,wherein the flexible region is deformable between a tubular configuration and a prolapsed configuration, and wherein, in the prolapsed configuration, the flexible region is collapsible around the one or more anchoring members of the implant for atraumatic removal of the implant.2. The catheter of claim 1 , wherein the flexible region comprises a braided mesh.3. The catheter of claim 2 , wherein the braided mesh is encapsulated in a polymer matrix.4. The catheter of claim 1 , wherein the distal tip comprises a radiopaque marker band.5. The catheter of claim 1 , further comprising a hook extending through the tubular body of the elongate shaft claim 1 , wherein the hook is configured to engage and collapse the implant.6. A system for performing a procedure in a patient's ventricle claim 1 , the system comprising: a plurality of struts, and', 'a plurality of anchoring members, wherein each strut terminates in an anchoring member; and, 'an implant comprising an elongate shaft having a tubular body,', 'a flexible region coupled to a distal end of the elongate shaft, and', 'a distal tip,, 'a retrieval catheter comprisingwherein the flexible region is deformable between a tubular configuration and a prolapsed configuration, and wherein, in the ...

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MONITORING AND IMPROVING ARTERIOGENESIS

A method for determining an arteriovascular condition of a subject having an arterial blood flow is shown. The method involves determining a temporal progression of an instantaneous blood flow condition of the arterial blood flow as well as deriving a slew rate of the temporal progression during an increase of the temporal progression. In addition, an arteriovascular condition indicator device is shown, which comprises: an input for receiving an input signal representing an instantaneous arterial blood flow condition of a subject and a slew rate monitor connected to the input. A corresponding control device for providing an activation signal is also shown. The control device comprises a maximum detector connected to the slew rate monitor. A method for stimulation of arteriogenesis is also shown, wherein a temporal progression of an instantaneous blood flow condition is monitored, a slew rate of the temporal progression is derived, and the maximum of the slew rate is determined. An external pressure is applied repeatedly to the arteriovascular section in synchronization with the occurrence of the determined maximum. 121-. (canceled)22. A system for stimulation of arteriogenesis in a subject , comprisinga sensor device measuring a heartbeat of the subject and providing respective measuring signals of the heartbeat of the subject;a control device providing an activation signal based upon the measuring signals provided by the sensor device; andan actuator device comprising an actuator surface for moving the same in correlation with a point of time based on the measuring signals of the heartbeat of the subject, wherein the actuator device is controlled by the activation signal provided by the control device for initializing application of external pressure repeatedly to an arteriovascular section or tissue of the subject.23. The system of claim 22 , wherein the actuator device applies external pressure repeatedly to the arteriovascular section or tissue of the subject ...

INTRA-CARDIAC LEFT ATRIAL AND DUAL SUPPORT SYSTEMS

A system for treating atrial dysfunction, including heart failure and/or atrial fibrillation, that includes one or more pressurizing elements and control circuitry. The one or more pressurizing elements can comprise one or more balloons and can be configured to be positioned in the left atrium, and optionally the pulmonary artery, of a patient's heart. The one or more pressurizing elements can be coupled to one or more positioning structures that can be configured to position the one or more pressurizing elements in the left atrium, and optionally the pulmonary artery. The control circuitry can be configured to operate the one or more pressurizing elements to decrease or increase pressure and/or volume in the left atrium, and optionally the pulmonary artery, in accordance with different phases of the cardiac cycle. The control circuitry can be further configured to operate the one or more pressurizing elements to generate coordinated pressure modifications in the left atrium, and optionally the pulmonary artery. 1. A system for treating atrial dysfunction , the system comprising:a pressurizing element configured to be positioned in a left atrium of a heart of a patient; and operate the pressurizing element to decrease a pressure in the left atrium during atrial diastole to draw oxygenated blood out of the lungs of the patient by increasing a relative volume of the left atrium to reduce a filling pressure in the left atrium; and', 'operate the pressurizing element to increase the pressure in the left atrium during atrial systole by reducing the relative volume of the left atrium to increase a left atrial pressure during atrial systole, wherein the increase in the left atrial pressure during atrial systole increases a pressure differential between the left atrium and a left ventricle that improves diastolic filling of the left ventricle., 'control circuitry configured to2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an atrial positioning structure coupled to the ...

INTRA-AORTIC BALLOON COUNTERPULSATION WITH CONCURRENT HYPOTHERMIA

Devices, systems and methods for treating disorders characterized by low cardiac output. The devices, systems and methods use intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation in combination with hypothermia of all or a portion of a human or veterinary patient's body to improve coronary perfusion and cardiac output. To effect the hypothermia, a heat exchange catheter may be positioned in the a patient's vasculature separately from the intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation catheter. Alternatively, a combination Intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation/heat exchange catheter may be utilized. Such combination catheter comprises a) a catheter sized for insertion into the aorta, b) a counterpulsation balloon and c) a heat exchanger. A drive/control system receives temperature and electrocardiograph signals and drives the inflation/deflation of the counterpulsation balloon as well as the heating/cooling of the heat exchanger.

Devices and methods for assisting cardiac function

Devices and methods for assisting cardiac function. In an exemplary embodiment of a device for assisting heart function of the present disclosure, the device comprises a first plate and an opposing second plate, each plate having an inner surface, a cardiac processor coupled to at least one of the first plate and the second plate, a bladder having an inner chamber and disposed between the inner surfaces, and a first catheter having a proximal end in communication with the inner chamber of the bladder and a distal end having a first pericardial balloon coupled thereto, wherein a gas and/or a liquid within the inner chamber of the bladder can be injected into the first pericardial balloon upon compression of the first plate relative to the second plate, and wherein the gas and/or the liquid can be removed from the first pericardial balloon upon retraction of the first plate relative to the second plate.

RIGID BODY AORTIC BLOOD PUMP IMPLANT

An implantable aortic blood pump includes a rigid body having wall extending along a long axis and defining an inflation port portion with an inflation aperture therethrough. The aperture is fluid communication with an inner surface of the body and on a fluid supply, the body is preferably independent of an external brace or an external stiffener, yet still has a cantilevered deformation of less than 8 millimeters in response to a 200 gram weight suspended from a front body edge. A deflecting structure of a membrane deflects in response to fluid pressure so as to pump blood when the pump is secured to a subject aorta. 1. An implantable aortic blood pump comprising:a rigid body configured to be attached to a subject's aorta with an inner surface concave in both longitudinal and transverse directions, said body having a wall extending along a long axis and defining an inflation port portion with an inflation aperture therethrough, the aperture in fluid communication with an inner surface of said body and a fluid supply, said body being independent of a brace or a stiffener, said rigid body having a cantilevered deformation of less than 7 percent the length of said long axis in response to a 200 gram weight suspended from a front edge of the long axis;a deflecting membrane secured to said body and deflecting in response to fluid communication to pump blood when the pump is secured to the subject's aorta, said deflecting membrane deflecting in excess of 100 million inflation/deflation cycles when secured to the subject's aorta.2. An implantable aortic blood pump comprising:a rigid body with an inner surface concave in both longitudinal and transverse directions, said body having a wall extending along a long axis and defining an inflation port portion with an inflation aperture therethrough, the aperture in fluid communication with an inner surface of said body and a fluid supply, said body being independent of a brace or a stiffener, said rigid body having a ...

BLOOD PUMPS

Apparatus and methods are described including a blood pump () configured to be placed inside a blood vessel of a in subject, the blood pump including an impeller () configured to pump blood by rotating. A support cage () is shaped to define a narrow portion () that is configured to be disposed around the impeller, and to maintain a separation between a wall of the blood vessel and the impeller, and a radial extension () from the narrow portion of the support cage that extends radially outward with respect to the narrow portion of the support cage, the radial extension being configured to substantially maintain a longitudinal axis of the impeller in alignment with a local longitudinal axis of the blood vessel by contacting the wall of the blood vessel. Other applications are also described. 1. An apparatus , comprising: an impeller configured to pump blood by rotating;', a narrow portion that is configured to be disposed around the impeller, and to maintain a separation between a wall of the blood vessel and the impeller, and', 'a radial extension from the narrow portion of the support cage that extends radially outward with respect to the narrow portion of the support cage, the radial extension being configured to substantially maintain a longitudinal axis of the impeller in alignment with a local longitudinal axis of the blood vessel by contacting the wall of the blood vessel; and, 'a support cage that, when disposed in a radially non-constrained configuration, is shaped to define, 'a material coupled to the support cage, the material defining a hole therethrough in a vicinity of the impeller, the material being configured to occlude backflow of blood around an outside of the impeller, and to allow antegrade blood flow in the vicinity of the impeller., 'a blood pump configured to be placed inside a blood vessel of a subject, the blood pump comprising2. The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the narrow portion of the support cage and the radial extension ...

Method and Device for the Intermittent Occlusion of the Coronary Sinus

In a method for intermittently occluding the coronary sinus, in which the coronary sinus is occluded using an occlusion device, the fluid pressure in the occluded coronary sinus is continuously measured and stored, the fluid pressure curve is determined as a function of time, and the occlusion of the coronary sinus is triggered and/or released as a function of at least one characteristic value derived from the measured pressure values. The pressure increase and/or pressure decrease per time unit each occurring at a heart beat are used as characteristic values. 1. (canceled)2. A system for intermittently occluding a coronary sinus in a heart , comprising: means for occluding a coronary sinus positioned along a distal end of the catheter, and', 'means for fluidly communicating with the means for occluding to controllably expand and collapse the means for occluding within the coronary sinus;, 'a multi-lumen coronary sinus occlusion catheter includinga pressure sensor connected to the multi-lumen coronary sinus occlusion catheter so as to measure a coronary sinus pressure while the means for occluding is expanded in the coronary sinus; anda controller that, in response to a comparison of a threshold value to a calculated value including a change in coronary sinus pressure per time unit while the means for occluding is expanded in the coronary sinus, causes the means for occluding to collapse and thereby release of an occlusion of the coronary sinus.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the pressure sensor is configured to measure a fluid pressure in the coronary sinus at the distal end of the catheter when the means for occluding is expanded in the coronary sinus claim 2 , and the controller is configured to determine a pressure increase and/or pressure decrease per time unit while the means for occluding is expanded in the coronary sinus.4. The system of claim 2 , wherein the pressure sensor is in communication with a memory that stores data indicative of a fluid pressure ...

METHODS OF DISTRIBUTING A PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCT COMPRISING NITRIC OXIDE GAS FOR INHALATION

Disclosed are methods of distributing a pharmaceutical product comprising nitric oxide gas for inhalation. The methods include, for example, obtaining a cylinder containing nitric oxide gas and supplying the cylinder to a medical provider along with instructions regarding how to administer the gas safely to pediatric patients, the instructions including information that patients who have pre-existing left ventricular dysfunction and are administered inhaled nitric oxide may experience pulmonary edema. 130-. (canceled)31. A method of providing pharmaceutically acceptable nitric oxide gas to a medical provider , the method comprising:obtaining a cylinder containing compressed, pharmaceutically acceptable nitric oxide gas in the form of a gaseous blend of nitric oxide and nitrogen;supplying the cylinder containing compressed nitric oxide gas to a medical provider responsible for treating pediatric patients who have pulmonary hypertension, including some who do not have left ventricular dysfunction;providing to the medical provider instructions regarding how to administer the nitric oxide gas safely to pediatric patients, the instructions including information that patients who have pre-existing left ventricular dysfunction and are administered inhaled nitric oxide may experience pulmonary edema.32. The method of claim 31 , wherein the instructions appear in prescribing information supplied to the medical provider with the cylinder containing compressed nitric oxide gas.33. The method of claim 31 , wherein the instructions include instructions regarding how to administer nitric oxide gas to neonates.34. The method of claim 33 , wherein the neonates include neonates with hypoxic respiratory failure.35. The method of claim 31 , wherein the instructions include information that patients who have pre-existing left ventricular dysfunction and are administered inhaled nitric oxide gas may experience increased pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) claim 31 , leading to ...

DRIVE DEVICE FOR A MEMBRANE FLUID PUMP AND OPERATING METHOD

A drive device is provided comprising a working pump, the working pump connected to a membrane fluid pump, and the working pump having a working piston able to oscillate axially between two reversal points for contracting and expanding a working chamber, and a control unit for controlling a movement of the working piston between the two reversal points. The controlled movement of the working piston comprises three temporally successive phases, in a first phase the working piston is accelerated to a speed that is greater than a speed at the end of the first phase, in a second phase the working piston is moved such that a specified speed of the working piston, a specified relative pressure in the working chamber, or a specified force of the working piston is substantially kept constant, and in a third phase the working piston is moved at a negative acceleration. 1. A drive device for a membrane fluid pump , the drive device comprising:a working pump, the working pump connected to the membrane fluid pump via a pressure line in order to drive the membrane fluid pump, and the working pump having a hollow cylinder and a working piston configured to oscillate axially therein between two reversal points for contraction and expansion of a working chamber in the working pump, the working chamber being in a pressure exchanging connection with the pressure line; anda control unit configured to control a movement of the working piston between the two reversal points, the controlled movement of the working piston comprising three temporally successive phases,wherein in a first phase the working piston is accelerated to a speed that is greater than a speed at the end of the first phase,wherein in a second phase the working piston is moved such that a specified speed of the working piston, a specified relative pressure in the working chamber, or a specified force of the working piston is kept substantially constant,andwherein in a third phase the working piston is moved at a ...

LEFT VENTRICULAR ASSIST DEVICE

A left ventricular assist device includes an outer tube, which includes a ventricle section located in the left ventricle and an artery section located in the aorta, the ventricle section is provided with first suction meshes, and the artery section is provided with first discharge meshes, and the outer tube is in communication with an external drive device; a ventricular-side suction component provided in the ventricle section; and a discharge-section balloon catheter, is provided with second discharge meshes, and the second discharge meshes and the first discharge meshes are arranged to be staggered and not overlapped. With the suction and inflating of the external drive device, blood is sucked into the outer tube from the left ventricle by the ventricular-side suction component, and forced out of the outer tube into the aorta by the discharge-section balloon catheter, to pump blood in the left ventricle into the aorta. 1. A left ventricular assist device , comprising:an outer tube, comprising a ventricle section configured to be located in the left ventricle and an artery section configured to be located in the aorta, wherein a tube wall of the ventricle section is provided with first suction meshes, a tube wall of the artery section is provided with first discharge meshes, and the outer tube has one end closed and another end configured to be in communication with an external drive device;a ventricular-side suction component arranged in the ventricle section, wherein, the ventricular-side suction component is configured to drain blood in the left ventricle into a chamber of the outer tube in a case that the external drive device performs suction, and configured to prevent blood in the outer tube from being forced out of the ventricle section in a case that the external drive device performs inflating process; anda discharge-section balloon catheter, wherein two ends of the discharge-section balloon catheter are hermetically sleeved and fixed on an outer wall of ...

COLLAPSIBLE AND SELF-EXPANDING CANNULA FOR A PERCUTANEOUS HEART PUMP AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING

Disclosed herein is a collapsible and self-expanding cannula for a percutaneous heart pump. The collapsible and self-expanding cannula comprises an open proximal end, an open distal end, and an elongate fluid-impermissible wall structure that includes a first balloon film, a cannula strut, and a second balloon film. The first balloon film is disposed on an interior surface of the cannula, the second balloon film is disposed on the exterior surface of the cannula, and the cannula strut is between the two balloon films. Together they form an integrated hybrid structure upon thermal fusion bonding. Also disclosed herein is a method of manufacturing the collapsible and self-expanding cannula. 1. A collapsible and self-expanding cannula for a percutaneous heart pump , the collapsible and self-expanding cannula comprising:an open proximal end;an open distal end; andan elongate, fluid impermissible wall structure; wherein the elongate, fluid impermissible wall structure comprises: (i) a first balloon film disposed on an interior surface of the wall structure and defining a first wall structure circumferential surface; (ii) a second balloon film disposed on an exterior surface of the wall structure and defining a second wall structure circumferential surface; and (iii) a cannula strut disposed between the first balloon film and the second balloon film.2. The collapsible and self-expanding cannula according to claim 1 , wherein the cannula strut comprises a shape memory alloy.3. The collapsible and self-expanding cannula according to claim 2 , wherein the shape memory alloy has an austenite finish temperature of from 0 to 45° C.4. The collapsible and self-expanding cannula according to claim 2 , wherein the shape memory alloy is a nickel-titanium alloy.5. The collapsible and self-expanding cannula according to claim 1 , wherein the first balloon film and the second balloon film each independently comprise a thermoplastic elastomer.6. The collapsible and self-expanding ...

Thoracic aorta ventricular assist system

An implantable heart assist system includes a compressible pumping chamber including an inlet conduit configured to be placed in fluid connection with the descending thoracic aorta and an outlet conduit configured to be placed in fluid connection with the thoracic aorta; and a pump system comprising a first rigid member, a second rigid member spaced from the first rigid member so that at least a portion of the pumping chamber may be positioned between the first rigid member and the second rigid member, a drive system configured to cause the second rigid member to move toward the first rigid member or away from the first rigid member, and a controller in operative connection with the drive system and controlling the motor, wherein movement of the second rigid member toward the first rigid member results in compression of the pumping chamber and movement of the second rigid member away from the first rigid member causes expansion of the pumping chamber.

FULLY IMPLANTABLE DIRECT CARDIAC AND AORTIC COMPRESSION DEVICE

The present invention provides a combined direct cardiac compression and aortic counterpulsation device comprising: an inflatable direct cardiac compression jacket configured when inflated to directly compress a heart and assist in displacing blood therefrom, an aortic counterpulsation chamber configured when inflated to displace aortic volume for the purposes of causing a counterpulsation effect, and a driver operably connected to said inflatable direct cardiac compression jacket and to said aortic counterpulsation chamber, said driver is configured to inflate said direct cardiac compression jacket and to deflate said aortic counterpulsation chamber during systole of the heart; said driver is further configured to deflate said direct cardiac compression jacket and to inflate said aortic counterpulsation chamber during diastole of the heart. 1. A combined direct cardiac compression and aortic counterpulsation device comprising:an inflatable direct cardiac compression jacket configured when inflated to directly compress a heart and assist in displacing blood therefrom,an aortic counterpulsation chamber configured when inflated to displace aortic volume for the purposes of causing a counterpulsation effect, anda driver operably connected to said inflatable direct cardiac compression jacket and to said aortic counterpulsation chamber, said driver is configured to inflate said direct cardiac compression jacket and to deflate said aortic counterpulsation chamber during systole of the heart; said driver is further configured to deflate said direct cardiac compression jacket and to inflate said aortic counterpulsation chamber during diastole of the heart.2. A combined direct cardiac compression and aortic counterpulsation device comprising:an inflatable direct cardiac compression jacket configured when inflated to directly compress an external surface of a heart and assist in displacing blood therefrom,an aortic counterpulsation chamber configured when inflated to displace ...

Wrap and Related Systems and Methods

The inventions disclosed herein relate to systems for securing medical devices to a blood vessel of a patient, including securing a vessel deforming component to a blood vessel. Certain embodiments relate to wraps configured to be secured around a blood vessel, including wraps configured to hold a vessel deformer adjacent a blood vessel, and further including, for example, a pulsatile balloon adjacent the aorta. 1. A system for coupling a vessel deforming component to a blood vessel , the system comprising: (i) a body;', '(ii) size markings disposed on the body; and, '(a) a wrap comprising(iii) a plurality of pairs of sutures extending from a proximal end of the body, wherein each of the sutures comprises a needle disposed at a distal end of the suture; and(b) a vessel deforming component operably coupled to the wrap.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein each pair comprises a color that is different from either adjacent pair of sutures.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the body comprises non-traumatic outer edges.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the non-traumatic edges comprise a coated polymer claim 4 , a coated elastomer claim 4 , or a soft claim 4 , stretchable fabric.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the wrap further comprises a lead member coupled to a distal end of the body.7. A system for coupling a vessel deforming component to a blood vessel claim 1 , the system comprising: (i) a body;', '(ii) size markings disposed on the body; and', '(iii) a plurality of sutures extending from a proximal end of the body; and, '(a) a wrap comprising(b) a suture carrier comprising an elongate structure comprising a plurality of foldable sections, wherein each of the foldable sections comprises at least one engagement structure.8. The system of claim 7 , wherein the plurality of sutures are arranged in a plurality of pairs claim 7 , wherein each suture comprises a needle disposed at a distal end of the suture.9. The system of claim 8 , wherein each pair comprises a color ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING PULMONARY HYPERTENSION

A system for treating heart disease, such as pulmonary hypertension or right heart failure, including an implantable component and external components for monitoring the implantable component is provided. The implantable component may include a compliant member, e.g., balloon, coupled to a reservoir via a conduit. Preferably, the compliant member is adapted to be implanted in a pulmonary artery and the reservoir is adapted to be implanted subcutaneously. The external components may include a clinical controller component, monitoring software configured to run a clinician's computer, a patient monitoring device, and a mobile application configured to run on a patient's mobile device. 1. A system for treating pulmonary hypertension , the system comprising:a balloon sized and shaped to be implanted in a pulmonary artery, the balloon configured to expand and contract responsive to pressure changes in the pulmonary artery;a reservoir in fluidic communication with the balloon;a conduit fluidicly coupling the balloon and the reservoir; andan implantable anchor configured to transition between a contracted state and an expanded deployed state for securing the balloon within the pulmonary artery, the implantable anchor formed from a shape memory material and configured to self-expand upon deployment within the pulmonary artery, the implantable anchor comprising a plurality of petals spaced around a circumference at a distal end of the implantable anchor.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the reservoir is adapted to be implanted subcutaneously.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the balloon is configured to be detachable from at least a portion of the implantable anchor in vivo such that the balloon is replaceable while at least the portion of the implantable anchor remains implanted.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the implantable anchor is coupled to the conduit distal to the balloon.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the shape memory material is nitinol.6. The system of ...

CARDIAC TREATMENT SYSTEM

An assembly for providing localized pressure to a region of a patient's heart to improve heart functioning, including: (a) a jacket made of a flexible biocompatible material, the jacket having an open top end that is received around the heart and a bottom portion that is received around the apex of the heart; and (b) at least one inflatable bladder disposed on an interior surface of the jacket, the inflatable bladder having an inelastic outer surface positioned adjacent to the jacket and an elastic inner surface such that inflation of the bladder causes the bladder to deform substantially inwardly to exert localized pressure against a region of the heart. 1(a) a jacket made of a flexible biocompatible material, the jacket having an open top end that is received around the heart and a bottom portion that is received around the apex of the heart; and(b) at least one inflatable bladder disposed on an interior surface of the jacket, the inflatable bladder having an inelastic outer surface positioned adjacent to the jacket and an elastic inner surface positioned adjacent to the heart such that inflation of the bladder causes the bladder to deform substantially inwardly to exert localized pressure against a region of the heart.. An assembly for providing localized pressure to a region of a patient's heart to improve heart functioning, comprising: This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/053,261 filed on Oct. 14, 2013, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/713,351 filed on Oct. 12, 2012, the contents of this aforementioned application being fully incorporated herein by reference.The present disclosure relates to medical devices for treating heart diseases and valvular dysfunction, including valvular regurgitation.Various compression-style systems currently exist for treating heart diseases and conditions such as congestive heart disease and valvular dysfunction. These systems typically involve either: (a) jackets that ...

PORTABLE AND MODULAR TRANSPORTATION UNIT WITH IMPROVED TRANSPORT CAPABILITIES

A medical device, such as an intra-aortic balloon pump or carrier with an extendable wheel track and handle configured to be removably carried and integrated with a cart. The wheel track is configured to extend upon extension of the handle and to return to its original position upon retraction of the handle. 144-. (canceled)45. A modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump , comprising:(a) a wheeled cart, and(b) a wheeled pump unit removably mounted on or in the cart,the pump unit comprising a frame, a pump disposed within the frame, a control unit configured to control the pump, a display device in electronic communication with the pump unit, and a wheel assembly connected to the frame,wherein a first gas reservoir is connected to the cart and a second gas reservoir is connected to the pump unit, the second gas reservoir is configured and used to provide gas to the pump unit during operation of the pump unit, the first gas reservoir is configured and used to refresh gas in the second gas reservoir.46. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump according to claim 45 , wherein the pump unit is configured to connect to a third gas reservoir to refill the second gas reservoir when the pump unit is removed from the cart.47. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump according to claim 45 , wherein the second gas reservoir is less than about 300 cubic centimeters in volume.48. The modular portable intra-aortic balloon pump according to claim 45 , wherein the second gas reservoir is less than about 300 cubic centimeters in volume.4960-. (canceled)61. A portable intra-aortic balloon pump system comprising:an intra-aortic balloon pump for inflating and deflating an intra-aortic balloon catheter when connected to the intra-aortic balloon pump;a first tank connected to the intra-aortic balloon pump for supplying gas to the intra-aortic balloon pump to enable inflation and deflation of the intra-aortic balloon catheter; anda recharge tank connectable to the first tank ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LONG-TERM ASSISTING A LEFT VENTRICLE TO PUMP BLOOD

A method and apparatus for long-term assisting the left ventricle of a heart to pump blood is disclosed which includes at least one transluminally deliverable pump and a transluminally deliverable support structure which secures the at least one pump within the aorta for long-term use. 1. (canceled)2. A method for providing circulatory assistance , the method comprising:transluminally delivering a sheath to an operational location within a blood vessel, the sheath having a lumen enclosing a pump assembly, the pump assembly including a power wire extending through a proximal portion of the lumen of the sheath and a motor coupled with a distal end of the power wire, the pump assembly further comprising an impeller coupled with the motor, a pump housing enclosing the impeller and a support structure comprising a plurality of struts, each strut having an inner end coupled with the pump housing and an outer end;providing relative movement between the sheath and the support structure to allow the struts to extend outwardly in the blood vessel, to engage the pump assembly with a wall of the blood vessel at a location upstream of the impeller;supplying power to the pump assembly by way of the power wire;operating the pump assembly to pump blood; andadvancing the sheath relative to the struts to collapse the struts prior to withdrawing the pump assembly from the blood vessel.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein each of the struts comprises a vessel interface element disposed adjacent to the outer end of the strut.4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising causing the vessel interface element to apply a force to the wall of the blood vessel prior to supplying power to the pump assembly.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the vessel interface elements of the struts cause the impeller to be disposed in a spaced relationship from the wall of the blood vessel.6. The method of claim 3 , wherein the vessel interface element comprises a hook claim 3 , the method further comprising ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LONG-TERM ASSISTING A LEFT VENTRICLE TO PUMP BLOOD

A method and apparatus for long-term assisting the left ventricle of a heart to pump blood is disclosed which includes at least one transluminally deliverable pump and a transluminally deliverable support structure which secures the at least one pump within the aorta for long-term use. 1. (canceled)2. A blood flow assist system comprising:a pump housing having a first proximal end and a second distal end, the pump housing configured to be inserted into a blood vessel such that the second distal end is upstream of the first proximal end;a pump disposed within the pump housing, the pump including an impeller that provides blood flow through the pump housing when rotated;a motor coupled to the pump housing and configured to impart rotation to the impeller;a wire electrically connected to the motor, the wire extending downstream relative to the first proximal end of the pump housing when the pump housing is inserted into a blood vessel; anda support structure mechanically coupled to the pump housing and including a first collapsed configuration and a second expanded configuration, the support structure in the first collapsed configuration being sized for percutaneous transluminal delivery through a femoral or another peripheral artery of a circulatory system of a patient, the support structure in the second expanded configuration capable of extending between the pump housing and a portion of a descending aorta of the circulatory system of the patient,wherein the support structure comprises a plurality of struts, each of at least two struts of the plurality of struts having a distal end that is disposed distally and configured to be positioned upstream of a distal end of the impeller and a proximal end connected to the pump housing, the at least two struts configured to allow placement in the first collapsed configuration disengaged from a wall of the portion of the descending aorta and placement, upon deployment, in the second expanded configuration in which the ...