Abstract: A prosthetic myocardium is disclosed for replacing necrotic or scarred myocardial tissue to positively simulate both myocardial contraction and expansion during systole and diastole. The prosthetic device includes several circumferentially arranged tilting arms which are sutured to the periphery of an opening in the heart formed by a medical excision. The tilting arms are pivotally supported and functionally interconnected with an axially reciprocal drive rod which effects synchronized inward and outward pivoting of the tilting arms to simulate the myocardial functions during heartbeat.

Abstract: An improved dynamic aortic patch is surgically implanted in the thoracic aorta and is systematically inflated and deflated to generate pressure waves in the bloodstream. The pressure waves assist the heart by augmenting the circulation of the blood through the body. The patch includes a flexible inflatable bladder and an independent envelope. The envelope has a reinforced surface for limiting and directing inflation of the bladder inwardly toward the lumen of the aorta.

Abstract: An improved connector having mating connector members with at least two paths in each connector member. Magnets are positioned in each connector to generate spatially oriented magnetic fields; the fields for one connector member being complementary to those of the other connector member. As the connector members are moved toward each other, the complementary fields align the members and maintain a releasable connection therebetween with the paths in each connector member properly aligned. The complementary magnetic fields preclude misalignment and provide quick release of the connector members when a sufficiently strong external force is applied.