Modular implantable ventricular assist device
The invention features modular implantable ventricular assist devices configured to be, at least in part, assembled within a patient. The devices generally include a pump assembly and an expandable frame. The frame is configured to engage tissue of a patient when implanted. The pump assembly is configured to be operably coupled to the frame when the frame is implanted and in the expanded configuration.
1. A method comprising:
implanting a frame in a vessel;
attaching a scaffold having an opening to the implanted frame;
advancing a pump component through the vessel from a location away from the implanted frame into the scaffold opening; and
operably coupling the pump component to the scaffold.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pump component comprises a micropump.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein implanting the frame in the vessel comprises engaging the vessel with the frame.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pump component is configured to pump fluid through the frame along a longitudinal axis of the frame.
5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising advancing the frame through the vessel prior to implanting the frame.
6. The method of claim 5 , wherein advancing the frame through the vessel comprises advancing the frame a distance of greater than 50 cm.
7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising advancing the scaffold through the vessel prior to attaching the scaffold to the frame.
8. The method of claim 7 , wherein advancing the scaffold through the vessel comprises advancing the scaffold a distance of greater than 50 cm.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein advancing the pump component through the vessel comprises advancing the pump component a distance of greater than 50 cm.
10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the frame has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration.
11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the scaffold has an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration.
12. The method of claim 1 , further comprising a heart valve attached to the frame.
13. The method of claim 1 , wherein the vessel is an aorta and the frame is configured to securely engage an inner wall of the aorta when implanted.
14. The method of claim 1 , wherein the frame is configured to be delivered through the vessel via an intravascular catheter.
15. The method of claim 1 , wherein the scaffold is configured to be delivered through the vessel via an intravascular catheter.
16. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pump component is configured to be delivered through the vessel via an intravascular catheter.