Abstract: Methods and systems for delivering formulations to users using modular device having atomizer and wick assembly are disclosed. A formulation delivery system that includes a mouthpiece with a first attaching structure at one end and a removable cartridge with a second attaching structure that connects to the mouthpiece. The removable cartridge houses an atomizer at its first end and features a wick assembly with a removable cap and a wick made from an absorbent material. The wick, which transports fluid to the atomizer, is connected at one end to the removable cap and at the other end abuts the atomizer. The system also includes a channel within the removable cartridge; this channel extends to the cartridge's first end and houses the wick, while the removable cap is located outside the channel. Additionally, the system incorporates electronics that maintain a removable electrical connection with the cartridge.

Abstract: The invention provides a compact inhalation device (CID) to effectively deliver inhalation mediation to a patient. The CID comprises a mouth piece, a drug chamber and an air flow chamber, wherein the mouth piece, the drug chamber and the air flow chamber are connected to form a cylinder-shaped device, which is similar to a cigarette, and provide at least medication contained in the drug chamber to the patient via the mouth piece. One end of the mouth piece fits a patient's mouth. The other end of the mouth piece is connected to a first end of the drug chamber, and a second end of the drug chamber is connected to a first end of the air flow chamber, wherein the connections between them use a twisted close/open mechanism or a flapped flow close/open mechanism. A second end of the air flow chamber has an opening for ambient air flow.

Abstract: A container for refilling an aerosol delivery device includes a housing storing an aerosol precursor composition. An adapter coupled to the housing is removably, sealably connectable with the aerosol delivery device for refilling with aerosol precursor composition, and includes a valve engageable with the aerosol delivery device. The aerosol delivery device defines separate and distinct filling and airflow ports, the filling port for transfer of aerosol precursor composition into the aerosol delivery device during refilling, wherein the airflow port is closed by the valve to prevent passing of the aerosol precursor composition therethrough, and the airflow port for a flow of air through the aerosol delivery device when the valve and aerosol delivery device are disengaged. A cap is removably coupled to the housing over the adapter, the cap being a removal-resistant cap including two tabs, the simultaneous pressing of which allows the removal-resistant cap to turn and be removed.

Abstract: A fluid permeable heater assembly for an aerosol-generating system includes a base including an opening through the base and an electrically conductive filament arrangement over the opening. The base includes a solid aerosol-forming substrate on the base. A cartridge includes a cartridge body including a reservoir within the cartridge body. A heater assembly is arranged at one end of the cartridge body.

Abstract: An aerosol delivery device includes a housing enclosing a reservoir retaining an aerosol precursor composition. A first power-source terminal connects a power source to the aerosol delivery device. An atomizer is configured to vaporize components of the aerosol precursor composition. A switch is coupled between the first power-source terminal and the atomizer. A micro pump is arranged between the reservoir and the atomizer to deliver aerosol precursor composition from the reservoir to the atomizer. A driver circuit includes a boost converter coupled between the first power-source terminal and the micro pump, to drive the micro pump. A control component includes processing circuitry configured to switchably control the driver circuit to drive the micro pump, and switchably control the switch to connect the power source to the atomizer independently of the driver circuit and thereby power the atomizer to vaporize components of the aerosol precursor composition.

Abstract: Device having a vessel containing a fluid product dose, a compressed gas vessel for dispensing a dose of compressed gas to expel the dose of fluid product, and an intermediate portion having a body and a connection for connecting the vessel to the compressed gas vessel, and an actuating mechanism. The connection has first and second support members and a deformable tube attached thereto. The first support member has a first opening mechanism for opening the vessel and the second support member has a second opening mechanism for opening the compressed gas vessel. A spring is between the first and second support members, the actuating mechanism has a button rigidly connected to a cage which locks the support members axially. When the button is moved radially, the support members are unlocked and the spring moves the two support members towards their actuating positions.

Abstract: Nonpathogenic microorganism preparations for delivery to the intranasal system, kits including nonpathogenic microorganism preparations for delivery to the intranasal system, and devices for administering nonpathogenic microorganism preparations to the intranasal system are provided. Vehicles for intranasal delivery of nonpathogenic microorganisms are provided. Ammonia oxidizing microorganism preparations for delivery to the intranasal system, kits including ammonia oxidizing preparations for delivery to the intranasal system, and devices for administering ammonia oxidizing preparations to the intranasal system are provided. Vehicles for intranasal delivery of ammonia oxidizing microorganisms are provided.

Abstract: A device for providing an inhibition agent to a nasal cavity of a user, the device comprising: an insertion element, said insertion element having a surface having the inhibition agent, said insertion element arranged to insert the surface into the nasal cavity, such that the inhibition agent is placed to receive an inhalation and/or exhalation airflow.

Abstract: Devices and methods for allowing for improved assisted ventilation of a patient. The methods and devices provide a number of benefits over conventional approaches for assisted ventilation. For example, the methods and devices described herein permit blind insertion of a device that can allow ventilation regardless of whether the device is positioned within a trachea or an esophagus. In addition, the methods and device allow for timed delivery of ventilations based on a condition of a thoracic cavity to increase the amount and efficiency of blood flow during a resuscitation procedure.

Abstract: A blower includes a housing including a proximal opening and a distal opening that are co-axially aligned, a stator component provided to the housing, an impeller positioned between the proximal opening of the housing and the stator component, and a motor adapted to drive the impeller. The impeller includes a plurality of impeller blades. The stator component includes a plurality of air directing grooves along its exterior surface. The leading edge of the air directing grooves extend tangentially outwards from the outer tips of the impeller blades and are configured to collect the air exiting the impeller blades and direct it from a generally tangential direction to a generally radial direction by dividing the air from the impeller and directing the air along a curved path towards the distal opening so that airflow becomes substantially laminar.

Abstract: Systems methods for collecting an anaesthetic agent are described herein. The systems include at least one anaesthetic gas scavenging system (AGSS) for receiving exhaust gas from at least one source, the exhaust gas including the anaesthetic agent to be collected. Each AGSS comprises at least one power source for providing suction of the exhaust gas from the plurality of sources. The systems also include a collection system for recovering the anaesthetic agent from the exhaust gas. The collection system includes a compressor for compressing the exhaust gas from the AGSS to increase a pressure of the exhaust gas and at least one adsorbent tank configured to receive the compressed exhaust gas from the compressor and adsorb the anaesthetic agent from the compressed exhaust gas.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for supplying therapeutic gas, in particular NO/N2 mixtures, comprising an internal passage (2), valve means (5), control means (6) with microprocessor, and selection means (8), which can be actuated by a user and are configured to allow the user to start a supply of gas or stop a supply of gas. The selection means (8) supply the control means (6) with a command signal corresponding to the choice made by the user, in order to control, via the valve means (5), the flow of gas in the internal passage (2), i.e. to authorize or stop any flow of gas. The control means (6) count a total duration of actual supply of gas equal to the sum of all the time periods elapsing between a choice, made by the user, of starting a supply of gas and a choice, made by the user, of stopping a supply of gas. Installation for administering gas to a patient, which includes such a gas supply apparatus.

Abstract: A suction catheter apparatus for extracting secretions from a patient's airway including a suction collection tube, a catheter attached to the suction collection tube, and a control valve disposed between the catheter and the suction collection tube, the control valve set to an open position as the catheter is being inserted into the patient's airway while the suction is active so that the catheter extracts secretions as the catheter travels into the patient's airway to a predetermined depth. The suction catheter apparatus can be an open suction catheter apparatus or a closed suction catheter apparatus. This design feature provides a clear pathway for air flow from the atmosphere to reach a tip of the catheter instead of the air flow being extracted from the lungs of the patient.

Abstract: Disclosed are articulatable endotracheal tube stylet devices. systems and methods for endotracheal intubation and interrogation. In some aspects. an endotracheal tube stylet apparatus includes a housing: a handle comprising a lever arm that is coupled to the housing: a staple shaft that is coupled to the housing: and an articulation mechanism that extends from the housing through and out of an aperture of the staple shaft and operable to bend upon control by movement of the lever arm of the handle.

Abstract: A breathing assistance apparatus comprises an oral appliance, wherein the oral appliance has at least an uppermost splint adapted to engage with a set of maxillary teeth. The apparatus also comprises a strapless positive airway pressure nasal mask and a plurality of ferromagnetic members provided on the oral appliance and nasal mask. The ferromagnetic members comprise one or more magnets such that the nasal mask and oral appliance are attracted to each other when the apparatus is being worn by a user.

Abstract: A respiratory mask with an interface for the connection of at least two components, wherein the interface is round or oval and has a maximum diameter, and the components each make available at least one subregion of the interface. The component has a grip part which extends radially outward from the subregion and which is configured as a pressing surface or gripping means for fingers or the hand of an operator, wherein the component has two grip parts, wherein the subregions are in form-fit engagement with each other in an assembled state and are movable about a rotation axis (DA), for which purpose the grip part is rotatable to different rotation positions relative to the two grip parts.

Abstract: A tub is configured to contain a supply of water and is configured to be inserted into a chamber of a humidifier. The tub includes a tub base configured to contain the supply of water. The tub also includes a tub lid and a flow plate provided between the tub base and the tub lid. The flow plate includes a water level indicator configured to indicate a level of the supply of water in the tub base. In addition, the water level indicator includes a generally rectangular portion and a generally triangular portion.

Abstract: Embodiments of a respiratory support apparatus are disclosed comprising features configured to minimize, reduce or contain aerosols carrying pathogens that can cause diseases such as COVID 19, SARS, MERS, Tuberculosis, or any other infectious diseases. Embodiments of a respiratory support apparatus are also provided configured to at least reduce the amount of oxygen required, during use of the apparatus, from an external oxygen supply such as an oxygen tank or hospital wall supply. Embodiments of such apparatus are provided with means to recirculate expiratory gases, and/or redirect leak flow. Embodiments of such apparatus are provided in which expiratory gases are sucked away from the patient. Embodiments of such apparatus are provided comprising a first flow generator for delivering inspiratory gases, and a second flow generator for removing expiratory gases.

Abstract: A system and method of waking a person includes receiving, in a processing system, stimuli configuration data that is indicative of all available waking stimuli available for use. Sleep state data that is indicative of a current sleep state of the person is received in the processing system. The stimuli configuration data and the sleep state data are processed, in the processing system, to determine (i) a set of the available stimuli to use to awaken the person and (ii) a sequence of activation of the set available stimuli to use. The set of available stimuli are selectively activated, via the processing system, in the determined sequence of activation.

Abstract: A medical device is provided for stimulating neurons of a patient to suppress a pathologically synchronous activity of the neurons. The device includes a non-invasive stimulation unit for administering different stimuli (s) to the patient's body via at least one stimulation channel and a control unit for selectively actuating the stimulation unit. The control unit actuates the stimulation unit to successively generate a first stimulus and a subsequent second stimulus in a sequence such that a minimum non-stimulation period (Pcc, Pic) is provided between the first and the second stimulus. The control unit also sets the duration of the minimum non-stimulation period (Pcc, Pic) in dependence on at least one stimulus characteristic of the first stimulus.

Abstract: Locomotion-assisting apparatus and method of assisting an individual with impaired locomotion from a neurodegenerative disease such as Parkinson's Disease, so as to improve the individual's locomotion, comprising mounting to the individual apparatus comprising a projection device and a display means and projecting an image from the projecting device on to the display means, the image being perceived by the individual to be in an upper field of view and perceived to be a distance in front of the individual.

Abstract: A safety catheter device has a clip guard that covers the needle tip protector or safety needle clip from the time that the device is shipped out in the ready to use position, through its use as a safety catheter device, to when the clip guard and the safety needle clip enclosed by the clip guard is removed from the catheter hub after the catheter extending from the catheter hub has been correctly placed into the vein or artery of the patient. A clip cup may be added to provide an additional level of protection for the safety needle clip and the sharp distal tip of the needle contained therein. Safety needle clips of different configurations used with the safety catheter device are described.

Abstract: A catheter configured to receive a supplemental medical device to facilitate treatment of a vascular anomaly within a blood vessel having a proximal hole and a distal hole. A lumen extends between the proximal hole and the distal hole and is configured to receive the supplemental medical device. At least one balloon element can be provided proximally of the distal end hole. At least one side hole is in communication with the lumen. Each side hole is configured to receive the supplemental medical device such that the supplemental medical device is extendable into the blood vessel through an elected side hole to increase access to a target site in the blood vessel and reduce rotational manipulation of the catheter required during an endovascular procedure. The catheter can be rotatable and steerable.

Abstract: A catheter assembly having a catheter unit with a catheter hub, a hub extension with a cavity or pocket receiving at least part of the catheter hub, and a tab adaptor removably attached to the catheter hub or to the hub extension. A needle projects through the catheter hub and the catheter tube and has a needle hub attached to an end of the needle. The tab adaptor is enlarged or oversized and is removable following successful venipuncture. The hub extension has a large flat bottom surface to increase the surface-to-surface contact with a patient, and to minimize rolling the catheter hub during connector change out.

Abstract: An IV catheter system may have a catheter component and a needle component. The catheter component may have a catheter hub, a cannula extending distally from the catheter hub, and a push feature extending outward from the catheter hub. The push feature may have an outer surface that receives contact from a digit to move the IV catheter system from an insertion configuration, in which the needle is within the cannula, to a fluid delivery configuration, in which the needle is outside the catheter hub. The needle component may have a needle hub and a needle extending distally from the needle hub along an axis. The push feature may be formed of a flexible material that causes the push feature, in response to pressure exerted on the outer surface by a dressing securing the catheter component to a patient, to deflect the outer surface toward the cannula axis.

Abstract: An elongate body and a hole for slidably passing a wire receiving assembly. The apparatus working with a short and thin cylindrical portion, such as a short wire. The short and thin cylindrical portion, the wire receiving assembly and an open end of the elongate body used to distend or dilate a body channel more easily.

Abstract: The invention provides a medical device (10) for use within the human body, which includes a catheter tube (12) having a distal end and a proximal end, an inflation passage (30) defined within the catheter tube having an outlet (32), at least one balloon module (38) which has a first end (40) and a second end (42) which engage the catheter tube to envelop the outlet, and between which an outer wall (50), a closed perimeter (44), and an inner wall (52) is disposed to define an inflation enclosure (55), and a cavity (53) defined within the inner wall, wherein the balloon component is inflatable by inflow of an inflation fluid through the inlet into the inflation enclosure from a deflated state to an inflated state, wherein the balloon has at least one bond zone (54) within which the inner wall is bonded directly to the outer wall, and wherein, in the inflated state, the outer wall and at least part of the inner wall move radially outwardly relatively to the longitudinal axis of the catheter to cause expansion o

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a device and a method for treating at least one of hypertension, pulmonary arteries, diabetes, obesity, heart failure, end-stage renal disease, digestive disease, urological disease, cancers, tumors, pain, asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by delivering an effective amount of a formulation to a tissue. In embodiments of the present invention, the formulation may include at least one of a gas, a vapor, a liquid, a solution, an emulsion, or a suspensions of one or more ingredients. In embodiments of the present invention, amounts of the formulation and/or energy are effective to injure or damage tissue, nerves, and nerve endings in order to relieve disease symptoms.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a device and a method for treating at least one of hypertension, pulmonary arteries, diabetes, obesity, heart failure, end-stage renal disease, digestive disease, urological disease, cancers, tumors, pain, asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by delivering an effective amount of a formulation to a tissue. In embodiments of the present invention, the formulation may include at least one of a gas, a vapor, a liquid, a solution, an emulsion, or a suspension of one or more ingredients. In embodiments of the present invention, amounts of the formulation and/or energy are effective to injure or damage tissue, nerves, and nerve endings in order to relieve disease symptoms.

Abstract: A dynamic balloon angioplasty system for applying a dynamic pressure to fracture hardened materials embedded within an elastic conduit. The system having a pressure source system outputting at least a first predetermined pressure from a pressure source outlet, and an angioplasty unit fluidly coupled to the pressure source outlet receiving at least the first predetermined pressure. The angioplasty unit having an angioplasty inflation device, an angioplasty balloon connector, and an oscillating mechanism selectively actuated to output a plurality of pressure pulses to the angioplasty balloon via a fluid communication path. A control system is configured to determine an optimal hydraulic pressure oscillation frequency and amplitude for a given procedure and output a control signal to the oscillating mechanism, and monitor a pressure signal to detect fracture of the hardened material within the elastic conduit or system failure or leakage.

Abstract: Inflation devices and methods for using them are provided for selectively inflating and deflating multiple balloons on a catheter. For example, the inflation device may include a first valve including a plurality of first valve ports and a first valve member movable between multiple positions for opening and closing fluid paths between the first valve ports, a second valve including a plurality of second valve ports and a second valve member movable between multiple positions for opening and closing fluid paths between the second valve ports, and an actuator coupled to the first and second valve members for directing the first and second valve members between multiple positions, e.g., to selectively pull vacuum and sequentially inflate the balloons.

Abstract: A catheter includes a midshaft having a proximal midshaft end and a distal midshaft end. An inner shaft extends distally through the midshaft to a distal inner shaft end. A balloon has a proximal balloon shoulder coupled to the distal midshaft end and a distal balloon shoulder coupled to the inner shaft. A proximal shaft is coupled to the proximal midshaft end. The proximal shaft includes a support member that extends through the balloon at least to the distal balloon shoulder.

Abstract: A shunt device includes a cylindrical barrel portion formed of a plurality of struts arranged in a chevron pattern, a plurality of proximal anchor features emanating from a first axial end of the barrel portion, and a plurality of distal anchor arms emanating from a second axial end of the barrel portion, the plurality of distal anchor arms having a length that is greater than a length of the proximal anchor features.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to the field of medical devices and establishing fluid communication between body lumens. In particular, the present disclosure relates to devices and methods for establishing a controlled flow or access passage between body lumens. For example, a device may include an elongate tubular body defining a lumen along a length thereof. The elongate tubular body may have an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration. In the expanded configuration, a proximal portion of the elongate tubular body may expand into a proximal retention member and a distal portion of the elongate tubular body may expand into a distal retention member, leaving a cylindrical saddle region extending therebetween. The cylindrical saddle region may include a constricted portion configured to move between a first diameter configuration and a second diameter configuration larger than the first diameter configuration.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for delivering an interatrial shunt device to a puncture of the atrial septum of a patient. The delivery devices described herein do not require a separate dilator as the components thereof function as a dilator for enlarging the puncture of the atrial septum prior to delivery of the interatrial shunt. For example, the integrated dilator may include an expandable portion that transitions to a contracted state after dilation of the puncture for deployment of the shunt. Alternatively, the delivery sheath may have an expandable portion that forms part of the dilator, such that the sheath may be expanded to permit deployment of the shunt. For example, a balloon catheter may be used to expand the sheath. In another embodiment, a portion of the shunt device may form part of the dilator, prior to deployment of the shunt.

Abstract: A valve for a shunt useable in treatment of hydrocephalus is described. The valve comprises an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet, a valve closure element, a mechanical biasing element configured to bias the valve closure element towards the inlet, and an electromechanical actuator configured to manipulate the mechanical biasing element. A biasing force applied to the valve closure element by the mechanical biasing element determines an operating pressure of the valve, and manipulating the mechanical biasing element by the electromechanical actuator allows for adjustment of the valve operating pressure by suitably varying the biasing force.

Abstract: A method including: introducing a shunt into a vascular system, wherein the shunt includes an inlet aperture in an inlet region and an outlet aperture in an outlet region; positioning the inlet region into an epidural or intervertebral vein; with a stylet, puncturing a wall of the epidural or intervertebral vein, traversing an interstitial space, and puncturing a thecal sac, wherein the stylet includes a wire extending through the shunt; moving the shunt to cause the inlet region to extend through a wall of the epidural or intervertebral vein; moving the shunt to cause the inlet region to extend into an interstitial space; and moving the shunt to cause the inlet region to extend through the thecal sac, such that the inlet region is positioned in an intradural space, and such that the outlet region is positioned in a venous pathway.

Abstract: Ingestible devices can directly deliver therapeutic agents to desired tissue(s) of the GI tract of a subject, such as the submucosa, the mucosa, and/or the mucus layer of the GI tract, and methods of using the same. The ingestible devices can deliver therapeutic agents in a safe, effective, and reliable manner. The disclosure also provides pharmaceutical compositions for use in methods of treating a disease or condition in a subject in need thereof.

Abstract: A wirelessly powered tattoo machine is disclosed, which has a substantially radially symmetric exterior shape for optimal manipulability by a user, and integrated controls for on-device configuration and operation. The power supply component of the machine may be removed, and multiple battery packs may be utilized with a single machine for continuous use. The machine may also be powered by wire and simultaneously operate the machine while charging a connected battery pack. The machine may further include wireless communication with one or more separate devices to operate the machine or control the machine's settings, such as a foot pedal or mobile phone.

Abstract: An introduction needle includes a needle piercing portion. The needle piercing portion comprises a needle tooth and a substrate; the needle tooth is fixedly disposed on a portion of a first side surface of the substrate; and when the needle tooth pierces into the skin, the remaining portion of the first side surface of the substrate is configured to abut against an outer surface of the skin.

Abstract: Mechanical circulatory assist systems and related methods produce a pulsatile blood flow in synchronization with heart activity. A mechanical circulatory assist system includes a continuous-flow pump and a controller. The continuous-flow pump is implantable in fluid communication with a left ventricle of a heart of a patient and an aorta of the patient to assist blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. The controller includes a sensor that generates a signal indicative of an activity of the heart. The controller is operatively connected to the continuous-flow pump and configured to operate the continuous-flow pump in an artificial pulse mode in synchronization with the activity of the heart.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided, including a left-ventricular assist device that includes an impeller configured for insertion into a subject's left ventricle. A delivery tube passes through the subject's aorta, from outside the subject into the left ventricle. The delivery tube includes an outer layer that varies along a length of the delivery tube such that a flexural rigidity of the delivery tube at a first portion of the delivery tube, which is configured to traverse the aortic valve, is less than the flexural rigidity at a second portion, which is configured to traverse at least a portion of the aortic arch, and the flexural rigidity at the second portion is less than the flexural rigidity at a third portion, which is configured to traverse the descending aorta. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described including a blood pump that includes an axial shaft configured for insertion into, and rotation within, a left ventricle of a subject, and an impeller coupled to the axial shaft such that, as the axial shaft rotates, the impeller pumps blood from the left ventricle. A frame surrounds the impeller and a tip portion is coupled to a distal end of the frame. The tip portion includes a distal curved portion, which, when deployed within the left ventricle, lies in a plane, and a proximal curved portion, which, when deployed within the left ventricle, does not lie in the plane and is curved such that, following the insertion of the axial shaft into the left ventricle via an aorta of the subject, a distal end of the proximal curved portion points toward an apex of the left ventricle. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described including a left-ventricular assist device, that includes a collapsible pump-outlet tube configured for insertion, through an aorta of a subject, into a left ventricle of a heart of the subject such that the pump-outlet tube traverses an aortic valve of the subject. The device includes one or more bands, each of which is bonded to an outer wall of the proximal portion of the pump-outlet tube, without extending around a full circumference of the pump-outlet tube, such that, while the proximal portion of the pump-outlet tube is maintained in the open state, the proximal portion of the pump-outlet tube curves at respective locations of the bands. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described including an axial shaft configured for insertion into, and rotation within, a ventricle of a heart of a subject. An impeller is coupled to the axial shaft and a frame surrounds the impeller. A pump-outlet tube surrounds the frame such that, as the axial shaft rotates, the impeller pumps blood proximally, from the ventricle, through the pump-outlet tube. A flat inlet guard, which is shaped to define one or more holes, is disposed around, and perpendicular to, the axial shaft and within the frame distally to the impeller, such that the blood flows to the impeller via the holes. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: A catheter pump is disclosed. The catheter pump can include an impeller and a catheter body having a lumen therethrough. The catheter pump can also include a drive shaft disposed inside the catheter body. A motor assembly can include a chamber. The motor assembly can include a rotor disposed in the at least a portion of the chamber, the rotor mechanically coupled with a proximal portion of the drive shaft such that rotation of the rotor causes the drive shaft to rotate. The motor assembly can also comprise a stator assembly disposed about the rotor. The motor assembly can also include a heat exchanger disposed about the stator assembly, the heat exchanger may be configured to direct heat radially outward away from the stator assembly, the rotor, and the chamber.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described including packaging for a ventricular assist device. The packaging defines a pump-head chamber in which the pump head is packaged in a non-radially constrained configuration. A catheter-securement piece is shaped to define a hole and is configured to secure a distal end of the delivery catheter to the packaging by securing the delivery catheter within the hole. The packaging is configured such that the pump head is configured to be radially constrained by being retracted into the distal end of the delivery catheter, while the delivery catheter is secured within the hole. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described including a ventricular assist device that includes an axial shaft and an impeller disposed on the axial shaft, the impeller being configured to pump blood. A frame is disposed around the impeller. A distal thrust bearing is disposed within the frame, the distal end of the axial shaft being configured to engage with the distal thrust bearing such as to prevent the axial shaft from undergoing axial motion in response to variations in the pressure gradient against which the impeller pumps blood. A plurality of connecting struts extend radially inwardly from the frame to the distal thrust bearing and couple the thrust bearing to the frame. The frame and the connecting struts are formed as a single integral body. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described including a pump-outlet tube configured to traverse an aortic valve of a subject, such that the proximal end of the pump-outlet tube is disposed within the subject's aorta and the distal end of the pump-outlet tube is disposed within the subject's left ventricle. An impeller is configured to be disposed within the left ventricle within the pump-outlet tube, and to pump blood through the pump-outlet tube. A frame, disposed around the impeller, includes a cylindrical portion and a proximal conical portion. A proximal end of an optical fiber is disposed outside the subject's body and the distal end of the optical fiber is coupled to the proximal conical portion of the frame such that the distal end of the optical fiber extends to outside the pump-outlet tube in direct fluid communication with left-ventricular bloodstream of the subject. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rotor bearing system (1). Said system comprises a housing (80) in which a first permanent magnet (30) is mounted such that it can rotate about a first axis (105). A rotor (70) for conveying a liquid comprises a second hollow-cylindrical permanent magnet (40), which is mounted such that it can rotate about a second axis. The first permanent magnet (30) and the second permanent magnet (40) overlap axially at least partially, wherein the first permanent magnet (30) is disposed offset relative to the second permanent magnet (40). In the axial overlap region (160) of the first permanent magnet (30) and the second permanent magnet (40), the housing (80) is positioned between the two permanent magnets (30, 40).