Abstract: An inflow conduit of a ventricular assist device configured to prevent formation of recirculation and stagnation zones as well as collapse due to external forces or pump induced suction can be rigid and have a funnel like shape with an elbow to accommodate a patient anatomy. Stiffening elements and pressure sensing devices can also be provided associated with the inflow conduit.

Abstract: The subject of this patent application is an improved walking and/or running shoe. The shoe is an assembly made up of four primary parts, namely, a means for exposing front portion of foot, a means for forming sole of shoe, a means for covering top of shoe, and a means for tying shoe. The means for exposing front portion of foot is the open or exposed area of the means for covering top of shoe, which exposes some, a portion, or all of the toes, and may include an additional indentation to expose some or all of the pinkie toe as well.

Abstract: A blood pump apparatus can include a pump housing having a drive chamber containing a drive mechanism. A cupped member can be connected to the housing and the drive mechanism can include a motor for rotating an eccentric shaft. A pumping arm can be provided having one end riding on the eccentric shaft, an intermediate portion pivotably attached to the housing and another end connected to a movable plate. A roller bearing can be mounted on the eccentric shaft on which the arm can ride. A compressible blood chamber having an inlet and an outlet connected can be provided sandwiched between the cupped portion and the movable plate. The motor thus rotates the cam causing the pumping arm to pivot which cycles the movable plate against the blood chamber to pump blood. The movable plate can be implanted adjacent a lung such that the lung moves with the plate as blood is pumped and thereby functions as a compliance chamber. A speed reducer can be provided between the motor and the eccentric shaft.

Abstract: A blood pump apparatus can include a pump housing having a drive chamber containing a drive mechanism. A cupped member can be connected to the housing and the drive mechanism can include a motor for rotating an eccentric shaft. A pumping arm can be provided having one end riding on the eccentric shaft, an intermediate portion pivotably attached to the housing and another end connected to a movable plate. A roller bearing can be mounted on the eccentric shaft on which the arm can ride. A compressible blood chamber having an inlet and an outlet connected can be provided sandwiched between the cupped portion and the movable plate. The motor thus rotates the cam causing the pumping arm to pivot which cycles the movable plate against the blood chamber to pump blood. The movable plate can be implanted adjacent a lung such that the lung moves with the plate as blood is pumped and thereby functions as a compliance chamber. A speed reducer can be provided between the motor and the eccentric shaft.