Patent ID: 6146325
Filing Date: 2000-11-14
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
In an implantable VAD including a pump, a compliance chamber normally disposed above said pump, and a tube connecting said pump and said compliance chamber in liquid and gaseous communication,the improvement comprising:(A) said compliance chamber forming:(i) a reservoir for liquid extending from adjacent the bottom of said compliance chamber upwardly towards the top of said compliance chamber; and(ii) a chamber for gas disposed above said liquid reservoir and extending upwardly to the top of said compliance chamber, said gas chamber being in gaseous communication with said pump via said tube;(B) a subcutaneous access port in liquid and gaseous communication with said liquid reservoir for introducing make-up gas into or removing excess gas from said gas chamber via said liquid reservoir and for removing accumulated liquid from said liquid reservoir; and(C) conduit means connecting said port and said liquid reservoir in liquid and gaseous communication.