Abstract: Devices and methods for perfusing a patient's vasculature are provided. The device preferably includes a cannula with a port and a retractable sheath disposed over the port of the cannula. When the cannula is positioned within the patient's vasculature, the retractable sheath may be retracted to expose the port to divert blood flow towards another portion of the patient's vasculature, for example, to prevent ischemia of the patient's lower extremities. The device may be used during heart surgery, percutaneous heart or circulatory procedures, or other cardiac interventional procedures and may be used in conjunction with another device such as an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (“ECMO”) machine.

Abstract: A method for performing cardiovascular and surgical procedures includes providing a conduit in the form of a graft/canula placed using balloon dilatation catheter and providing a fixing mechanism for the graft/canula. At least one opening is formed through a wall of the heart substantially at the apex. The escape of blood is prevented through the use of the fixing mechanism. Each of these steps is performed while the heart is beating.

Abstract: A method for performing cardiovascular and surgical procedures includes providing a conduit in the form of a graft/canula placed using balloon dilatation catheter and providing a fixing mechanism for the graft/canula. At least one opening is formed through a wall of the heart substantially at the apex. The escape of blood is prevented through the use of the fixing mechanism. Each of these steps is performed while the heart is beating.