Abstract: An implantable, battery-operated controlled cerebral infusion and shunt (CCIS) system and method that is microprocessor controlled via algorithms stored in its memory. The system includes a programmable infusion system and a multi mode drainage system that contains at least two flow paths: a low resistance flow path for when the patient is in the supine or substantially supine position and a flow path containing a programmable variable check valve to prevent over-drainage when the patient is in the upright or substantially upright position. The combination of the above two functions allows modulation of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) turnover rate.

Abstract: The Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Physiologic Controller is an implantable active battery-operated device that is microprocessor controlled via algorithms stored in its memory. The controller also contains numerous diagnostic features, which enable the physician to monitor the operation of the system, as well as several key patient parameters non-invasively, by performing a set of algorithms.

Abstract: The Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Physiologic Controller is an implantable active battery-operated device that is microprocessor controlled via algorithms stored in its memory. It is a multi mode drainage system that contains at least two flow paths: a low resistance flow path for when the patient is in the supine or substantially supine position and a flow path containing a programmable variable check valve to prevent over-drainage when the patient is in the upright or substantially upright position.

Abstract: A blood pump is joined in parallel flow between the left ventricle and aorta of a patient's heart. The pump includes an inlet pressure sensor and cooperating controller for measuring inlet pressure to the pump to control operation thereof. The controller adjusts speed of the pump in a closed loop control using feedback of the measured inlet pressure to conform operation of the pump with the natural cycle of the heart.

Abstract: A pressure cuff includes a pad having a seat for receiving a vessel therealong through which a fluid under pressure flows. A pressure sensor is mounted inside the pad and includes a flexible flat diaphragm in the seat for engaging the vessel in flat contact therewith. A flexible strap is provided to clamp the pad in abutting contact with the vessel for measuring pressure through the wall thereof.

Abstract: A blood pump is joined in parallel flow between the left ventricle and aorta of a patient's heart. The pump includes an inlet pressure sensor and cooperating controller for measuring inlet pressure to the pump to control operation thereof. The controller adjusts speed of the pump in a closed loop control using feedback of the measured inlet pressure to conform operation of the pump with the natural cycle of the heart.

Abstract: An endovascular implant or endograft includes a tubular sleeve having integral inner and outer layers. A pressure sensor is embedded between the two layers and is covered thereby. And, the sleeve is flexible at the pressure sensor to permit transfer of pressure through the sleeve for detection by the pressure sensor in use.

Abstract: A pressure monitor includes a housing containing a reservoir and distributed ports. A pressure sensor is mounted inside the housing at the reservoir for measuring pressure in a liquid contained therein. A flexible membrane sealingly closes the ports and transmits external pressure to the internal liquid for measurement by the pressure sensor.

Abstract: A remote pressure sensor includes a probe having a chamber for holding a liquid. A flexible membrane is mounted in the probe. A conduit joins a reference cell to the chamber for holding the liquid. And, a reference pressure gauge is operatively joined to the conduit for measuring pressure of the liquid therein for use in referencing a primary pressure sensor through which fluid flows.

Abstract: A pressure sensor includes a tube for channeling a fluid therethrough. A notched seat is disposed in an outer surface of the tube and is open at circumferentially opposite ends, with a flexible diaphragm at the bottom thereof. The diaphragm is planar, and blends at its perimeter coextensively with an arcuate inner surface of the tube. A gauge is mounted in the seat above the diaphragm for measuring flexure thereof under pressure of the fluid inside the tube.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to evaluate the performance of an implanted medication delivery device such as pumps and ports is described. In the case of a pump, the system measures ambient pressure and obtains two pressure measurements from the implanted device. One of these measurements is device reservoir pressure and the other is based on a disturbance pulse injected into the system at a point downstream of the reservoir. Based on those measurements and input calibration data, an expected flow rate is determined. The expected flow rate together with device refill data is in turn used to determine a normalized flow rate for the in-vivo device. Determinations are then made as to the performance of the reservoir, its pump and the condition of the outlet catheter without explant of the device. In the case of a port, the system measures the catheter resistance based on decay time of a disturbance pulse.

Abstract: A centrifugal blood pump and method of pumping blood is disclosed to provide assistance for a dysfunctional heart. The pump is provided with a magnetic drive system which permits a synchronous magnetic coupling with a separate power unit disposed immediately adjacent the pump housing. The pump has a single moving part which includes the combination of an impeller connected to a magnetic drive rotor. The impeller is of improved blade and hub design to automatically move blood, and minimize formation of blood clots and fibrous amalgamation in the region of blood flow. Further, the impeller blades are configured to extend almost completely across the bottom surface of the impeller hub to enhance efficiency and clot-free operation. The magnetic drive system floats on a fluid surface of saline solution, which hydrodynamically supports and lubricates the magnetic drive rotor contained in a compartment separate from the impeller and facilitates a prolonged period of service-free operation.