Abstract: An apparatus for replacing a cardiac valve includes a first ring assembly and a second ring assembly. The first ring assembly includes a first magnetic member. The second ring assembly includes a second magnetic member and is magnetically attachable to the first magnetic member to sealingly attach the first and second ring assemblies together. A prosthetic cardiac valve is secured within the second ring assembly. A method for replacing a cardiac valve is also described.

Abstract: A coupling system for coupling a beam of radiant energy from a laser to a fiber optic cable includes a secondary transmission path which surrounds the input end of the fiber optic cable and provides an optical path for energy which is not transmitted by the fiber optic core but is lost. Displaced from an output end of the secondary transmission path is a multi-faceted reflector. The reflector is displaced sufficiently from the output end of the secondary transmission path so that the power density of the radiation incident thereon is reduced sufficiently so as to not damage the facets thereof. The coupling system is contained within a heat sink which receives the reflected and lost radiant energy harmlessly converting same to heat.