Abstract: The invention is generally concerned with supporting the ventricular septum (9) of the heart during mechanical compression of at least one ventricle. The ventricular septum (9) is supported by a septal splint (1) coupled by at least one bolster (48) to a free-wall actuating mechanism (6). The septal splint (1) has a central patch (2) with radial strands (3) extending to the junction of the free wall (7) and septum (9). The radial strands (3) traverse the ventricular free wall (7) at the junction. Affixation of each strand (3) to the heart wall is controlled by an internal element (18, 21) and external element (19, 38) of the bolster (48) and a placement tool (46) to avoid risks of injuring major coronary blood vessels. The placement tool (46) is configured to hold, deliver, stabilize for passage, and release the internal and external elements (18, 21, 19, 38) of the bolster (48), along with accompanying radial strands (3) from the septal splint (1).

Abstract: The invention relates to fixation of tension members, e.g., artificial tendons, and to transmitting force from tissues to energy converters or to natural or prosthetic bones or other prostheses. In one embodiment, a medical device is provided for implantation in a subject. The medical device includes an anchor block having a knob extending from its surface, such knob configured to engage a looped tension member. In one embodiment, the tension member includes a looped portion configured to engage the knob, an intermediate portion, and a tissue engaging portion configured to engage tissue in a subject. The looped portion is connected to the tissue engaging portion via the intermediate portion. In another embodiment, a system is provided for providing a function to a subject and includes at least one looped tension member, an operational device, and at least one medical device configured to couple the looped tension member and the operational device.