Abstract: A total aortic arch reconstruction graft, including a first, hollow cylindrical segment in the shape of an aortic arch, a second, hollow cylindrical segment having a first end joined to the second end of the first segment, and a second end adapted to be inserted into the descending aorta of a patient, the second segment having an expandable outer wall covered with an expandable stent, and a collar having a diameter larger than the diameter of said first segment, the collar located at a juncture where the first end of the second segment is joined to the second end of the first segment, with a plurality of separate, non-absorbable double-armed sutures pre-attached to the collar. A surgical procedure for total replacement of a patient's aortic arch is also disclosed.

Abstract: A pulsatile, positive-displacement mechanical circulatory support pump which can be used for assistance or replacement of one or both ventricles. The pump includes a plurality of contractile elements radiating outward from an apex of a compliance chamber, the elements being incorporated in and/or in contact with at least a portion of an outer surface of the compliance chamber. These contractile elements include an electroactive dielectric elastomer or an ion exchange membrane metallic composite. Application of electric field pulses from an implantable electrical energy source such as a pacemaker will cause the contractile elements to compress and expand the compliance chamber.

Abstract: A pulsatile, positive-displacement mechanical circulatory support pump which can be used for assistance or replacement of one or both ventricles. The pump includes a plurality of contractile elements radiating outward from an apex of a compliance chamber, the elements being incorporated in and/or in contact with at least a portion of an outer surface of the compliance chamber. These contractile elements include an electroactive dielectric elastomer or an ion exchange membrane metallic composite. Application of electric field pulses from an implantable electrical energy source such as a pacemaker will cause the contractile elements to compress and expand the compliance chamber.

Abstract: A total aortic arch reconstruction graft, including a) a first, hollow cylindrical segment in the shape of an aortic arch and adapted to be joined to a patient's ascending aorta, and including three side hollow cylindrical branches in communication therewith and adapted to be joined to a patient's left subclavian artery, left common carotid artery and innominate artery, respectively, and a fourth hollow cylindrical branch adapted to be joined to a heart-lung machine; b) a second, hollow cylindrical segment having a first end being joined to the second end of the first segment, and a second end adapted to be inserted into the descending aorta of a patient, the second segment having an expandable outer wall covered with an expandable open-mesh stent having means for attaching the second segment to an internal surface of a patient's descending aorta, c) a collar having a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of said first segment, the collar located at a juncture where the first end of the second segment