Abstract: The implantable heart assist device includes an elongated assembly extending transversely between the ribs of a person from the rib cage to the aorta of the heart to be assisted. The elongated assembly includes an aorta compressing device at the front end thereof for engaging the aorta externally thereof. A mounting device at the rear end of the elongated assembly supports the device from the ribs of the person, and a motive device actuates and deactivates the compressing means alternatingly to help pump blood through the aorta.To implant the heart assist device, a small incision is made at an area between the ribs, and the heart assist device is inserted through the incisional opening between the ribs. The mounting device is then affixed to the rib cage, and the motive device is then activated to cause the aorta compressing device to compress and release the aorta repeatedly.

Abstract: In a body organ control system having a pulse generator connected to a source of electrical power for generating a series of electrical timing pulses, an auxiliary pumping device is attached to a portion of the body organ for compressing and releasing it alternatingly in response to the series of timing pulses. The pumping device includes a compressor which has an opening therein for receiving and at least partially surrounding the body organ. The compressor is movable periodically to reduce substantially and forcibly the cross-sectional area of the opening by a predetermined amount to squeeze the surrounded portion of the body organ to force body materials therefrom.