Futuristic perspectives: novel MCS devices.

Abstract

Treatment of heart failure needs a firm understanding of anatomy and physiology of the circulatory system and the heart. Ancient India takes credit for the "modern concepts" of human circulation. This short review encompasses futuristic perspectives on mechanical circulatory devices (MCS). The heart is a complex structure which has evolved over millennia both in its structure and mechanical functionality. Evolving from a simple tube with peristaltic action such as in annelids, it evolved rapidly to form a more complexity as animals evolved from oceanic to terrestrial adaptation. The major advance is the innovation of placing the actuation mechanism within the blood flow path, such as in continuous flow technology (axial or centrifugal) when contrasted to the positive displacement pumps. We present novel concepts but also touch upon what we would consider as fundamental problems or paradigms that need to be addressed to move this field ahead. Finally, we propose what would be termed a "futuristic" MCS device.