Abstract: A connector for connecting a blood processing device to vascular tissue includes a vascular tissue connecting element that is suturable to a portion of the cardiovascular system for providing a flow connection. A junction ring is affixed to the vascular tissue connecting portion in order to form a substantially shape retaining connecting element. A locking ring for locking the junction ring to a blood processing device includes a coupling element configured to engage a port on the blood processing device so that rotation of the locking ring draws the junction ring to the port and locks the junction ring into a sealing relationship with the port. The locking ring is freely rotatable about the junction ring so that the locking ring can be rotated to lock the junction ring to the port without twisting the vascular tissue connecting element.

Abstract: A total artificial heart for placement inside a living body comprising right and left ventricle enclosures, wherein each ventricle includes an exterior wall formed of (i) contacting wall structure and (ii) noncontacting wall structure which collectively enclose an interior volume comprised of a blood chamber and a pumping chamber. The contacting wall structure of each ventricle enclosure is configured for intercontacting relationship wherein the contacting walls of the respective ventricles form a septum which structurally separates the interior volume of the right ventricle from the interior volume of the left ventricle. The noncontacting wall structure comprises the remaining exterior wall of each ventricle enclosure. A fluid drive motor capable of reversible flow is positioned within and circumscribed by the septum and includes a flow channel therethrough which communicates between the respective pumping chambers of the right and left ventricle enclosures.