The artificial ventricle: A conceptual design for a novel mechanical circulatory support system

We describe a novel design for a new mechanical circulatory support pump which can be utilized for single or biventricular support in a completely internal configuration. The device has a long projected service life, a totally implantable, readily available and off-the-shelf energy source. The proposed device is a pulsatile, positive-displacement blood pump composed of a conically-shaped compliance chamber, constructed of a biocompatible material and attached to two bioprosthetic valves (an inlet valve and an outlet valve), surrounded by radially-arranged contractile elements, made of an electro-active polymer and connected to a common stimulating electrode connected to an implantable permanent pacemaker. The entire assembly is housed in a hermetically sealed biologically inert shell. The energy output from the pacemaker will cause the deformation of the contractile elements and thus compression of the compliance chamber, effecting ejection of the blood through the outlet valve. Based on a design emulating the natural anatomic configuration, the device shall be able to provide clinically significant mechanical assistance and/or replacement of the native heart function and thus a means of supporting the failing ventricle(s) or replacing the failing heart for an extended period of time. The proposed design offers a new pulsatile, positive displacement mechanical circulatory support or replacement for one or both ventricles, is completely implantable, is composed of readily available materials, has minimal energy requirements and an extended service life on internal power supply.