Abstract: An apparatus and method for connecting a first conduit to the heart without the need for cardiopulmonary bypass. The first conduit may then be attached to a second conduit that has a prosthetic device interposed. The second conduit may be connected to the aorta prior to the first conduit being attached to the heart. The prosthetic device may be a prosthetic valve or a pump, for example. The apparatus of the present invention includes an implantable connector with first conduit component, a retractor expansion component, a coring component, and a pushing component. The retractor expansion component is slideably coupled to the coring component. The retractor expansion component serves to seat against and separate the inside apical wall of the left ventricle so that the coring component may cut cleanly through the myocardium to form a tissue plug without leaving any hanging attachments to the inside walls.

Abstract: The invention provides an applicator for forming a hole in a wall of a hollow organ and for connecting a hemostatic connection assembly to the hollow organ, wherein, when the hole is formed in the wall of the hollow organ, a first fluid seal exists between the hemostatic connection assembly and the wall of the hollow organ and a second fluid seal exists between the hemostatic connection assembly and the applicator, thereby minimizing fluid loss from the hollow organ.

Abstract: The invention provides a surgical suture placement device that includes a handle assembly rotatably secured to an elongated hollow outer tube extending from the handle assembly. Also included is a suturing assembly rotatably secured to the distal end of the elongated hollow outer tube and a hollow flexible tube connecting the handle assembly to the suture assembly by traversing the inside of the elongated hollow outer tube. The device can be used for placing a suture through the urethra and bladder neck to perform an urethrovesical anastomosis, e.g., after removal of the prostate.