| abstract |
Soft, multi-fingered resilient robotic fingers for selectively assisting the ventricles, and in particular the left ventricle, of a weak heart to produce internal pressure and to pump blood from one or more sides, in synchrony with the natural systolic contraction of the ventricle, as well as providing arrhythmia control of a beating heart. The apparatus is microprocessor and electrically-controlled and completely implantable. The plurality of soft fingers monitor and gently squeeze the heart (systole) to enhance blood circulation and assist a weak heart. The soft fingers work in harmony, by means of a micro-processor controlled solenoid or other linear robotic actuators such as metal-hydride actuators or polymeric artificial muscles, and a resilient body or a spring, to close once the solenoid is powered electrically and quickly retract away from the heart when the solenoid is not powered. This quick opening action allows the heart to expand freely (diastole) once it is compressed to allow the blood to naturally and freely return to the heart ventricles and coronary veins. The soft fingers can be connected to each other by means of elastic membranes or skirts to provide a resilient compression cup. The structure is equipped with a flexible and undulating stem connecting the structure to the robotic actuation mechanism housed in the abdomen of the patient. Monitoring electrones can be affixed to the soft fingers. The power supply for the implanted device can be long lasting batteries that can be recharged transcutaneously. |