Abstract: A method for producing valves for blood flow control having an outer sleeve and a plurality of flexible leaflets fixed to an inner surface of the sleeve, including: molding the valve to a first shape, in which the valve leaflets are in a closed position; holding the valve in a second desired shape, in which the valves are in an open position; and immersing the valve in a hot liquid while holding it in the second shape.

Abstract: A one-way valve for use in a heart-assist device, said valve comprising:an outer sheath, defining an enclosing a lumen therein, and comprising a first radial opening;an inner sleeve, rotatably held inside the outer sheath, and comprising a second radial opening, which is alignable with the first radial opening by rotation of the sleeve, such that when the first and second radial openings are mutually aligned, the valve is open; anda torque coupling device, coupled to the inner sleeve,wherein in response to flow of a fluid in the lumen in a first flow direction, the torque coupling device causes the sleeve to rotate in a first rotational direction, thereby altering the alignment of the first and second radial openings.

Abstract: A cardiac assist device includes a cannula with intake and outflow valve in the distal end portion is positioned in a bloodstream. A diaphragm in the proximal portion of the cannula, powered by external pressure-producing mechanism, forms a reservoir to exert pressure on the cannula volume at the valves to effect blood flow assistance to the patient's heart.