Abstract: A device and corresponding method for converting the contractile work of skeletal muscles into transportable energy. The device may comprise a converter having a mobile end adapted to be connected to a skeletal muscle, a relatively stationary end opposite the mobile end; one or more energy processing units operatively connected to the mobile and stationary ends of the converter, with each energy processing unit adapted to convert tensile forces generated by contraction of the skeletal muscle into transportable energy; and one or more energy conduits such as electrical wires associated with the relatively stationary end of the converter for delivering the transportable energy to power-consuming devices implanted in a body. The device may further comprise a relatively stationary end that is operatively connected to a body structure that is stationary relative to the skeletal muscle.

Abstract: The invention consists of a cushioned active cyclically deforming cushion or jacket (39) that surrounds the outer or epicardial surface of at least one chamber (2, 3, 4, 5) of the natural heart, including its base, configured so that internal components may be suspended from the jacket (39) by heart wall-penetrating cords to complete a restraining harness over the entire 3-dimensional boundary of the chamber or chambers. The cushion or jacket (39) provides protective and stabilizing openings (8, 9, 10) for atria and their inflow valves as well as for great vessels and their outflow valves. It is equipped with one or more actuator mechanisms (37, 38) that cyclically change shape at one or more sites, thus altering heart wall shape and chamber volume.

Abstract: The invention consists of means (1, 64, 81) of securing a powered active cyclically deforming jacket (13) that surrounds the outer or epicardial surface (12) of at least one chamber of the natural heart, as well as auxiliary components. Internal components suspended from the jacket (13) by heart wall-penetrating cords complete a restraining harness over the entire 3-dimensional boundary of the chamber or chambers. The embodiments of the invention also teach means (1, 64, 81) that are suitable to achieve secure fixation with limited operative exposure such as would be available in minimally invasive approaches, and means (89, 90, 91) by which later cardiac operation such as coronary bypass can be facilitated despite presence of the heart actuation device.

Abstract: Actuator mechanisms on the heart are of several types. In preferred embodiments, they are generally simple, durable, mechanical assemblies and are driven by power delivered from a remote location, generally outside the chest, by a variety of mechanisms. The invention teaches physical mechanisms (1) for transfer of cyclic power from outside the chest to the region of the heart for that purpose, either as translational or rotary motion. Also taught are electromechanical converting mechanisms suitable for delivering power to those transfer devices. The embodiments described herein for either transmission of energy from a site of generation to a conduit (2, 10, 22), and of conduits that then deliver energy to heart actuators, have contours and interfaces designed to promote a favorable biologic response similar to the pseudosynovial capsules that surround artificial joints. Further, design features are chosen to avoid both non-vented gas-filled chambers and static collections of tissue fluid.

Abstract: An actuation mechanism for assisting the operation of the natural heart has a varying shape for deforming the heart. In one embodiment, a plurality of links (6) articulates with respect to each other for varying the shape of the actuation mechanism. The plurality of links (6) is configured for being positioned proximate to an outer surface of the heart for deforming the heart by varying the shape of the actuation mechanism. In another embodiment, a jacket (51) for coupling with an outer surface of the heart has a tether (50) coupled to successive sections of the jacket. The tether (50) is operable to be translated with respect to the jacket sections to vary the shape of the jacket (51) for deforming the heart. In another embodiment, a plurality of concentric ring structures (81-84) are coupled together to move with respect to each other in a concentric fashion.

Abstract: An actuation system for assisting the operation of the natural heart includes a framework for interfacing with a natural heart and which is coupled with tissue of the heart. An actuator element is adapted to be coupled to the framework and is configured for extending along a portion of a heart wall exterior surface. The actuator element is operable for deforming the portion of the heart wall to effect a reduction in the volume of the heart. A protective sheath is configured to extend along the heart wall between the actuator element and the heart wall portion for protecting the heart wall portion from damage by the actuator element. The protective sheath is flexible and operable to transmit, to the heart wall portion, a force thereon by the actuator element for indenting the heart wall portion.

Abstract: An actuation system for assisting the operation of the natural heart includes an actuator element adapted to be positioned proximate a portion of a heart wall. The actuator element is operable for acting on the heart wall portion to effect a change in the shape of the heart. A shape-limiting element is configured for being positioned proximate a heart wall. The shape-limiting element is operable for flexing to assume a curvature no greater than a predetermined curvature when the heart wall is acted upon and maintaining that predetermined curvature to control the shape of the actuated heart.

Abstract: An insertion kit for positioning a plurality of filaments into muscle includes at least one holder that is configured for being attached to an end portion of the muscle. The holder is coupled with a guide, such as on a frame. The guide conforms the muscle to a desired shape. An inserter, used in conjunction with a plurality of needles, inserts a plurality of filaments into the muscle.

Abstract: Extra- to intra-corporeal power is provided by a transformer implanted at least partially within a defunctionalized intestinal pouch (or sack), such as an ileal pouch. The transformer includes a continuous loop magnetic core which is implanted within the pouch. The pouch itself includes a passageway permitting the secondary wiring to extend around the and through the magnetic core and through its central opening without entering the pouch providing intracorporeal current. Wire providing the primary windings extend from outside the body in through a stoma into the pouch and surround portions of the magnetic core within the pouch. Because of the use of a generally continuous loop magnetic core of high permeability, there is little or virtually no magnetic flux leakage. A solid circular core of a high permeability material may be used.