Patent ID: 8636642

Claim:
An anatomically-compatible and physiologically-compatible in vivo device for improving diastolic function of either the left or right ventricle of the heart, comprising: at least one unified elastic component in the form of a lattice, said lattice in the form of an array of approximately straight horizontal and vertical intersecting members such that the intersection of said members creates a series of cells, wherein each cell is bounded by said straight intersecting members, and wherein said approximately straight members are continuous from one edge of said lattice to the other, said lattice capable of being arranged in a curved conformation such that one surface of said lattice may be adapted to the curvature of the external ventricular surface of the heart, or a portion thereof, and is capable of exerting a mainly radially outward expansive force on the external ventricular surface of the heart, wherein said at least one elastic component is capable of being operatively connected to the external ventricular surface of the heart with one or more connecting elements operatively connecting the at least one elastic component to the external ventricle surface of the heart, wherein said device makes provision for the attachment of said one or more connecting elements to the elastic lattice at attachment points located at the intersection of said horizontal and vertical intersecting members of said lattice: wherein said connecting elements are adapted to be attached to the external ventricular wall of the heart and embedded therein and comprised from one or more elements from a group consisting of: a) helical coil springs adapted to be screwed into the cardiac tissue, b) biocompatible pins, c) biocompatible needles, d) biocompatible spikes, and e) biocompatible screws.