Assembled pump system and related methods

Abstract

The modular pump system includes a first pump and a second pump having a drive line. The second pump is configured to be assembled with the first pump in a lumen via an inter-pump connection between the second pump and the first pump. The drive line is further configured to move the second pump in a lumen in order to assemble the second pump and the first pump together in a lumen. The modular pump system is implantable and removable in vivo by the associated methods.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Field [1] This disclosure generally relates to modular pump systems and related methods.

Background Art

[0002] Background [2] Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices are technologies that significantly assist blood circulation, particularly in patients with heart failure. MCS therapy may be used to assist the left ventricle in the case of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), the right ventricle in the case of a right ventricular assist device (RVAD), or both ventricles in the case of a biventricular assist device (BiVAD). These devices can be classified into two categories: temporary circulatory support devices for indications such as high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and long-term support devices for indications such as bridge-to-heart transplantation, acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), and end-stage heart failure. MCS devices can be implanted surgically or percutaneously via catheter, and are generally considered for patients with progressive or rapidly progressing heart failure who do not respond to medical treatment. The selection of a specific MCS therapy is determined by clinical findings.

[0003] [3] In order to maximize the advantages of non-invasive percutaneous procedures, percutaneously implantable MCS devices generally desirably have a relatively small cross-sectional size that allows them to be guided into blood vessels of a compatible lumen size. Such blood vessels may not always be suitable for larger cross-sectional size MCS devices due to size limitations. By using MCS devices with a small cross-sectional size, the incidence of complications at the vascular access site, such as major bleeding, infections, and the need for emergency surgery, will clinically decrease compared to larger cross-sectional size MCS devices.

[0004] [4] To provide sufficient blood flow outflow for hemodynamic support, some known MCS devices need to operate at relatively high speeds, for example, as high as 55,000 rpm. Operation at such speeds induces hyperphysiological scalar shear stress on the blood, leading to, for example, the breakdown of blood components, hemolysis, platelet consumption and activation, and loss of von Willebrand factor activity, all of which are associated with adverse outcomes. In short, at least some known MCS devices are not necessarily suitable for long-term medical indications requiring relatively long-term device implantation and operation, during which exposure to blood injury-related complications such as stroke and gastrointestinal bleeding accumulates.

[0005] [5] Finally, known MCS devices typically require power from one or more electrical wires or cables to provide hemodynamic support. These electrical wires or cables may constitute a substantial portion of the lumen of the blood vessel through which they are routed. This is especially true when multiple electrical wires or cables are routed along the lumen, and / or when the lumen gradually shrinks in size downstream and upstream of the implanted MCS device. As a result, the electrical wires or cables may obstruct blood flow through the vascular system, potentially leading to adverse physiological effects, including tissue ischemia. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] [6] Therefore, improvements to at least some of the known MCS devices are desirable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] overview [7] A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to an implantable pump system including a first pump and a second pump including a drive line, the second pump being configured to be assembled with the first pump in a lumen via an inter-pump connection between the second pump and the first pump, and the drive line being further configured to move the second pump to assemble the second pump and the first pump together in a lumen.

[0008] [8] The first pump may include a first pumping unit, the second pump may include a second pumping unit, and the inter-pump connection may include an inter-unit connection between the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit.

[0009] [9] The first pump may include a pumping unit, and the pump-to-pump connection may include a unit-to-drive line connection between the pumping unit of the first pump and the drive line of the second pump.

[0010]

[10] The first pump may include a drive line.

[0011]

[11] The pump-to-pump connection may include a drive-line connection between the drive line of the first pump and the drive line of the second pump.

[0012]

[12] The drive line of the first pump may be configured to be removablely attached to the first pump.

[0013]

[13] The drive line of the first pump may be configured to be screwed to the first pump.

[0014]

[14] The drive line of the first pump may be configured to snare the first pump.

[0015]

[15] The drive line of the first pump may include an electrical conductor configured to transmit electricity from the power source to the first pump in order to operate the first pump.

[0016]

[16] The drive line of the first pump may be configured to allow the first pump to slide in order to assemble the first pump and the second pump together in a lumen.

[0017]

[17] The drive line of the first pump may be configured to be operated outside the lumen to move the first pump in order to assemble the first and second pumps together in the lumen.

[0018]

[18] The implanted pump system may include a sleeve coupler, which is attached to the drive line of the first pump and configured to slidably receive the drive line of the second pump inside.

[0019]

[19] The implanted pump system may include a sleeve coupler configured to slidably receive the drive line of the first pump and the second drive line of the second pump.

[0020]

[20] An implantable pump system may include a coupler associated with one of the first pump and the second pump, which may be configured to slidably receive the other of the first pump and the second pump inside in order to assemble the first pump and the second pump together in a lumen.

[0021]

[21] The coupler may include a pump receiving coupler that defines an opening that is sized and shaped to receive the other of the first and second pumps inside.

[0022]

[22] The coupler may be a latching coupler.

[0023]

[23] The implantable pump system can further include a first physical connector associated with the first pump and a second physical connector associated with the second pump, and the first physical connector and the second physical connector can be configured to be coupled together to assemble the first pump and the second pump within the lumen.

[0024]

[24] The first physical connector may include one of a male connector and a female connector, and the second physical connector may include the other of the male connector and the female connector.

[0025]

[25] The first physical connector may be a first latch connector, and the second physical connector may be a second latch connector.

[0026]

[26] The implantable pump system can further include a first magnetic connector associated with the first pump and a second magnetic connector associated with the second pump, and the first magnetic connector and the second magnetic connector can be configured to be magnetically coupled together to assemble the first pump and the second pump within the lumen.

[0027]

[27] The first magnetic connector may include a first drive unit magnet, and the second magnetic connector may include a second drive unit magnet.

[0028]

[28] The implantable pump system can further include a first electrical connector associated with the first pump and a second electrical connector associated with the second pump, and the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector can be configured to be electrically connected together to electrically connect the first pump and the second pump.

[0029]

[29] At least one of the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector can include a fluid seal configured to provide fluid-tight contact during electrical connection therebetween.

[0030]

[30] The coupler has a non-deployed state for transcatheter delivery of at least one of the first pump and the second pump in the lumen, and a deployed state for assembling the second pump and the first pump together in the lumen.

[0031]

[31] The drive line for the second pump may be configured to be removablely attached to the second pump.

[0032]

[32] The drive line of the second pump may be configured to screw to the second pump.

[0033]

[33] The drive line of the second pump may be configured to snare the second pump.

[0034]

[34] The drive line of the second pump may include an electrical conductor configured to transmit electricity from the power supply to the second pump in order to operate the second pump.

[0035]

[35] The drive line of the second pump may be configured to allow the second pump to slide in order to assemble the second pump and the first pump together in a lumen.

[0036]

[36] The drive line of the second pump may be configured to be operated outside the lumen to move the second pump in order to assemble the second pump and the first pump together in the lumen.

[0037]

[37] An implantable pump system may include an anchor attached to at least one of the first pump and the second pump, the anchor may be configured to engage with the lumen wall to fix the first pump and the second pump in the lumen.

[0038]

[38] The anchor can be removably attached to at least one of the first pump and the second pump.

[0039]

[39] The first and second pumps may be intravascular pumps or any other medical devices that can be assembled together and implanted.

[0040]

[40] The drive lines of the first and second pumps may be control wires or control cables.

[0041]

[41] A second aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for implanting an assembled medical device system, such as an assembled pump system, in an implantation site within a lumen, the method comprising delivering the assembled pump system to an implantation site, wherein the assembled pump system comprises a first pump and a second pump having a drive line, and the first and second pumps are configured to be assembled together in a lumen via an inter-pump connection between the first and second pumps; and operating the drive line to move the second pump and assemble the second pump and the first pump together in a lumen.

[0042]

[42] Delivery may include obtaining a single access opening for delivering the first and second pumps to the implantation site through the interior.

[0043]

[43] Delivery may include introducing a sheath containing at least partially the first and second pumps into the lumen through a single access opening; advancing the sheath in the lumen to its implantation site; withdrawing the first and second pumps from the sheath at the implantation site; and removing the sheath from the lumen through a single access opening.

[0044]

[44] Delivery may include closing a single access opening on the drive line of the second pump.

[0045]

[45] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include at least one of pulling and pushing the drive line of the second pump through a single access opening so that the second pumping unit and the first pumping unit move closer to each other in order to assemble the second pump and the first pump together in a lumen.

[0046]

[46] The implantation method may include pulling and pushing the drive line of the first pump through a single access opening so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit are brought closer to each other in order to assemble the first pump and the second pump together in a lumen.

[0047]

[47] Operating the drive line of the second pump and operating the drive line of the first pump may include operating the external end of at least one of the drive lines of the second pump and the first pump.

[0048]

[48] ​​The planting method may include transmitting electricity to the second pump via the drive line of the second pump, which is located through a single access opening to operate the second pump.

[0049]

[49] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include electrically connecting the second pump and the first pump together to transmit electricity between the second pump and the first pump in order to operate the first pump when the second pump and the first pump are assembled together.

[0050]

[50] The planting method may include transmitting electricity to the first pump via a drive line for the first pump, which is located through a single access opening, in order to operate the first pump.

[0051]

[51] Delivery may include obtaining a first access opening for delivering a first pump to the implantation site and obtaining a second access opening for delivering a second pump to the implantation site.

[0052]

[52] Delivery may include introducing a first sheath, at least partially housing a first pump, into the lumen through a first access opening; introducing a second sheath, at least partially housing a second pump, into the lumen through a second access opening; advancing the first and second sheaths in the lumen to an implantation site; withdrawing the first pump from the first sheath at the implantation site of the first pump; withdrawing the second pump from the second sheath at the implantation site of the second pump; removing the first sheath from the lumen through the first access opening; and removing the second sheath from the lumen through the second access opening.

[0053]

[53] Delivery may include closing the first access opening and the second access opening.

[0054]

[54] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include pulling and pushing the drive line of the second pump through the second access opening so that the second pumping unit and the first pumping unit move closer to each other in order to assemble the second pump and the first pump together in the lumen.

[0055]

[55] The implantation method may include pulling and pushing the drive line of the first pump through the first access opening so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit are brought closer to each other in order to assemble the first pump and the second pump together in the lumen.

[0056]

[56] Operating the drive line of the second pump and operating the drive line of the first pump may include operating the external end of at least one of the drive lines of the second pump and the first pump.

[0057]

[57] The planting method may include transmitting electricity to the second pump via the drive line of the second pump, which is located through the second access opening, in order to operate the second pump.

[0058]

[58] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include electrically connecting the second pump and the first pump together to transmit electricity for operation between the second pump and the first pump when the second pump and the first pump are assembled together.

[0059]

[59] The planting method may include transmitting electricity to the first pump via the drive line of the first pump, which is located through the first access opening, in order to operate the first pump.

[0060]

[60] The planting method may include fixing a modular pump system at the planting site.

[0061]

[61] A third aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for removing an assembled medical device system, such as an assembled pump system including a first pump and a second pump, from an implantation site in a lumen, the method comprising moving the second pump and operating the drive line of the second pump to separate the second pump in the lumen from the first pump, which is connected to the second pump via an inter-pump coupling, and recovering the assembled pump system in a separated (unassembled) state from the implantation site.

[0062]

[62] Recovery may include obtaining a single access opening for retrieving the first and second pumps from the implantation site.

[0063]

[63] Retrieval may include introducing the sheath into the lumen through a single access opening, advancing the sheath into the lumen to its implantation site, inserting the first and second pumps at least partially into the sheath, and removing the sheath, which at least partially houses the first and second pumps, from the lumen through a single access opening.

[0064]

[64] Recovery may include closing a single access opening.

[0065]

[65] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include pulling and pushing the drive line of the second pump through a single access opening so that the second pumping unit and the first pumping unit move away from each other in order to separate the second pump and the first pump from each other in the lumen.

[0066]

[66] The removal method may include pulling and pushing the drive line of the first pump through a single access opening so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit move away from each other in order to separate the first pump and the second pump from each other in the lumen.

[0067]

[67] Operating the drive line of the second pump and operating the drive line of the first pump may include operating the external end of at least one of the drive lines of the second pump and the first pump.

[0068]

[68] Removal methods may include cutting off the transmission of electricity to the second pump via the drive line of the second pump, which is located through a single access opening.

[0069]

[69] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include electrically disconnecting the second pump and the first pump from each other in order to stop the transmission of electricity between the second pump and the first pump.

[0070]

[70] The method of removal may include stopping the transmission of electricity to the first pump via the drive line of the first pump, which is located through a single access opening.

[0071]

[71] Recovery may include obtaining a first access opening for recovering the first pump from the implantation site and obtaining a second access opening for recovering the second pump from the implantation site.

[0072]

[72] Retrieval may include introducing a first sheath into the lumen through a first access opening, introducing a second sheath into the lumen through a second access opening, advancing the first and second sheaths into the lumen to their implantation site, inserting a first pump into the first sheath, inserting a second pump into the second sheath, withdrawing the first sheath, which at least partially houses the first pump, out of the lumen through the first access opening, and withdrawing the second sheath, which at least partially houses the second pump, out of the lumen through the second access opening.

[0073]

[73] Recovery may include closing the first access opening and the second access opening.

[0074]

[74] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include pulling and pushing the drive line of the second pump through the second access opening so that the second pumping unit and the first pumping unit move away from each other in order to separate the second pump and the first pump from each other in the lumen.

[0075]

[75] The removal method may include pulling and pushing the drive line of the first pump through the first access opening so that the first pumping unit and the second pump move away from each other in order to separate the first pump and the second pump from each other in the lumen.

[0076]

[76] Operating the drive line of the second pump and operating the drive line of the first pump may include operating the external end of at least one of the drive lines of the second pump and the first pump.

[0077]

[77] The method of removal may include stopping the transmission of electricity to the second pump via the drive line of the second pump, which is located through the second access opening, in order to stop the operation of the second pump.

[0078]

[78] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include electrically disconnecting the second pump and the first pump from each other in order to stop the transmission of electricity between the second pump and the first pump when the second pump and the first pump are separated from each other.

[0079]

[79] The removal method may include stopping the transmission of electricity to the first pump via the drive line of the first pump, which is located through the first access opening, in order to stop the operation of the first pump.

[0080]

[80] Removal methods may include releasing the prefabricated pump system from the implantation site by anchoring it away.

[0081] definition

[81] Throughout this specification and the claims, the words “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and variations thereof should be interpreted as open-ended terms and are not intended to exclude other elements, limitations, technical aspects, additives, components, steps, etc.

[0082]

[82] In this specification, the expression “and / or” is intended to mean “one or more” of the elements thus combined, that is, elements that exist conjunctively in some cases and disjunctively in other cases. Other elements other than those specifically identified by the expression “and / or” may exist, whether related to or not to the elements specifically identified. Thus, as an unrestricted example, a reference to “element A” and / or “element B” may refer to “element A” alone (including elements other than “element B” at the discretion of), “element B” alone (including elements other than “element A” at the discretion of), or both “element A” and “element B” (including elements other than “element A” and “element B” at the discretion of).

[0083]

[83] Relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom may be used only to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or element, but not necessarily to imply or require any actual relationship or order between such entities or actions. This specification may use perspective-based descriptions, such as top / bottom, back / front, and top / bottom. Such descriptions are used merely to facilitate consideration and are not intended to limit the application of the embodiments disclosed. Various actions may be described sequentially as multiple distinct actions, which may be helpful in understanding the embodiments, but the order of the descriptions should not be construed as suggesting that these actions are order-dependent.

[0084]

[84] The terms “about” and / or “approximately” when used in conjunction with values ​​and / or ranges generally refer to values ​​and / or ranges that are close to the values ​​and / or ranges listed. The terms “about” and “approximately” may be used synonymously. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that a person skilled in the art would consider equivalent to (i.e., having the same function or result as) the listed values. Often these terms may include numbers rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0085]

[85] When used in conjunction with physical and / or geometric features, structures, properties, relationships, etc., the term “substantially” is intended to mean that such features, structures, properties, relationships, etc. are nominally those features, structures, properties, relationships, etc. In general, the use of “substantially” herein is intended to take into account that while equality may be desirable, some variability may occur. Such variability may be due to manufacturing tolerances, limitations, approximations, and / or other practical considerations.

[0086]

[86] In this specification, the terms “wire” and “cable” are used interchangeably to refer to elongated structures that can be introduced into a lumen, such as a blood vessel, and used (for example, to be slidably moved). Examples of “elongated structures” include guidewires and any other cables and wires, whether or not they are configured to transmit electricity.

[0087]

[87] The terms “proximal” and “near” refer to locations or places that are distal to the operator, or located distally, or are closer to the operator than locations or places that are distally located.

[0088]

[88] The terms “distal” and “distal” refer to locations or places that are proximal to the operator, or located proximal to the operator, or that are located proximal to the operator, or that are further away from the operator than the same operator.

[0089]

[89] This specification describes various embodiments of the systems and methods. In many different embodiments, the features are similar. Therefore, in order to avoid redundancy, in some cases, repeated descriptions of these similar features will not be made. However, it will be understood that the description of a feature that appears first applies to similar features described later, and that each description is incorporated therein without such repetition.

[0090] Brief explanation of the drawing

[90] To facilitate understanding of the present disclosure, at least some selected embodiments thereof are shown in the accompanying drawings as examples. The accompanying drawings are therefore merely illustrative and are not intended to be construed as limiting the scope of the subject matter protected by the claims, nor are they intended to be so.

[0091]

[91] Note that similar reference numbers throughout the drawings identify similar or equivalent elements and / or features. Reference numbers, where present in the claims, are provided solely to make the claims easier to understand and are not intended to be interpreted as limiting the scope of the subject matter protected by the claims. Elements and / or features shown throughout the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0092]

[92] To aid in understanding the drawings, optional items, components, and boxes may generally be represented by dashed or dotted lines. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0093] [Figure 1]

[93] A schematic diagram of an assembled pump system, comprising a first pump and a second pump, and provided with a coupler corresponding only to the first pump 102, according to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present disclosure. The first and second pumps are shown in an assembled state. [Figure 2]

[93] A schematic diagram of an assembled pump system, comprising a first pump and a second pump, with a coupler provided only for the second pump, according to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present disclosure. The first and second pumps are shown in an assembled state. [Figure 3]

[94] A schematic diagram of an assembled pump system, comprising a first pump having a first coupler and a second pump having a second coupler, according to one embodiment of a first aspect of the present disclosure. The first and second pumps are shown in an assembled state. [Figure 4]

[95] A schematic diagram of one of several embodiments of the various coupling modes between the first and second pumps of the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3. [Figure 5]

[95] A schematic diagram of one of several embodiments of the various coupling modes between the first and second pumps of the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3. [Figure 6]

[95] A schematic diagram of one of several embodiments of the various coupling modes between the first and second pumps of the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3. [Figure 7]

[96] Schematic diagrams of inter-unit connection modes between the first pump and the second pump of the prefabricated pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to several embodiments. [Figure 8]

[96] Schematic diagrams of inter-unit connection modes between the first pump and the second pump of the prefabricated pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to several embodiments. [Figure 9]

[96] Schematic diagrams of inter-unit connection modes between the first pump and the second pump of the prefabricated pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to several embodiments. [Figure 10]

[97] Schematic diagrams of unit-drive line connection modes between the first and second pumps of the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to several embodiments. [Figure 11]

[97] Schematic diagrams of unit-drive line connection modes between the first and second pumps of the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to several embodiments. [Figure 12]

[97] Schematic diagrams of the unit-drive line connection mode between the first pump and the second pump of the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to several embodiments. [Figure 13]

[98] Schematic diagrams of driveline connection modes between the first and second pumps of the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to several embodiments. [Figure 14]

[98] Schematic diagrams of driveline connection modes between the first and second pumps of the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to several embodiments. [Figure 15]

[98] Schematic diagrams of driveline connection modes between the first and second pumps of the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to several embodiments. [Figure 16]

[99] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system in which the first pump and the second pump are in an unassembled state, according to several embodiments. [Figure 17]

[99] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system in which the first pump and the second pump are assembled, according to several embodiments. [Figure 18]

[0100] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system in which the first pump and the second pump are assembled and in one of various relative positions according to several embodiments. [Figure 19]

[0100] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system in which the first pump and the second pump are assembled and in one of various relative positions according to several embodiments. [Figure 20]

[0100] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system in which the first pump and the second pump are assembled and in one of various relative positions according to several embodiments. [Figure 21]

[0100] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system in which the first pump and the second pump are assembled and in one of various relative positions according to several embodiments. [Figure 22]

[0101] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams showing the cross-sectional dimensions of an assembled pump system in which the first pump and the second pump are in an unassembled state, according to several embodiments. [Figure 23]

[0101] It is taken along the XXIII-XXIII plane in Figure 22. [Figure 24]

[0101] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams showing the cross-sectional dimensions of an assembled pump system in which the first pump and the second pump are assembled, according to several embodiments. [Figure 25]

[0102] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system showing the transition of the first and second pumps between an unassembled state and an assembled state according to several embodiments. [Figure 26]

[0102] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system showing the transition of the first and second pumps between an unassembled state and an assembled state according to several embodiments. [Figure 27]

[0103] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system, which is provided with one anchor according to several embodiments. [Figure 28]

[0103] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system with two anchors, according to several embodiments. [Figure 29]

[0104] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system, which has three pumps according to several embodiments. [Figure 30]

[0104] Figures 1 to 3 are schematic diagrams of an assembled pump system, which has four pumps according to several embodiments. [Figure 31]

[0105] This is a perspective view of an assembled pump unit, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to one or more embodiments, which includes a pump receiving coupler on the first pumping unit of the first pump. [Figure 32]

[0105] This is a perspective view of an assembled pump unit, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to one or more embodiments, which includes a pump receiving coupler on the first pumping unit of the first pump. [Figure 33]

[0105] This is a side view of an assembled pump unit, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to one or more embodiments, wherein the assembled pump unit includes a pump receiving coupler on the first pumping unit of the first pump. [Figure 34]

[0106] This is a side view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, which includes an anchor having a pump receiving coupler, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 35]

[0106] This is a perspective view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, which includes an anchor having a pump receiving coupler, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 36]

[0106] This is a side view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, which includes an anchor having a pump receiving coupler, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 37]

[0107] A side view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to one or more embodiments, which includes a pump receiving coupler on the drive line of the first pump and optional magnetic couplers on the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit, respectively. [Figure 38]

[0107] A side view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, according to one or more embodiments, which includes a pump receiving coupler on the drive line of the first pump and optional magnetic couplers on the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit, respectively. [Figure 39]

[0108] This is a side view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, which includes a male connector on a first pumping unit and a female connector on a second pumping unit, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 40]

[0108] A perspective view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, which includes a male connector on a first pumping unit and a female connector on a second pumping unit, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 41]

[0108] A perspective view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, which includes a male connector on a first pumping unit and a female connector on a second pumping unit, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 42]

[0109] This is a perspective view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, which includes a first magnetic connector on a first pump and a second magnetic connector on a second pump, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 43]

[0109] This is a side view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, which includes a first magnetic connector on a first pump and a second magnetic connector on a second pump, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 44]

[0110] A perspective view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, which includes a first electrical connector on a first pumping unit and a second electrical connector on a second pumping unit, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 45]

[0110] This is a side view of an assembled pump system, such as the assembled pump system shown in Figures 1 to 3, which includes a first electrical connector on a first pumping unit and a second electrical connector on a second pumping unit, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 46]

[0111] A side view of an assembled pump system including a sleeve coupler according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 47]

[0111] A side view of an assembled pump system including a sleeve coupler according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 48]

[0111] A side view of an assembled pump system including a sleeve coupler according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 49]

[0112] A side view of an assembled pump system including a butterfly snare coupler according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 50]

[0112] A side view of an assembled pump system including a butterfly snare coupler according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 51]

[0113] This is a schematic diagram of a method for implanting an assembled pump system in a living organism according to a second aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 52]

[0114] This is a schematic diagram of an assembled pump system that is implanted in a living organism through a single access opening, such as by the method shown in Figure 51, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 53]

[0115] This is a schematic diagram of an assembled pump system that is implanted in a living organism, such as by the method shown in Figure 51, through the first and second access openings, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 54]

[0116] This is a schematic diagram of a method for removing an assembled pump system in a living body according to a third aspect of the present technology. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0094] Detailed explanation

[0117] The subject matter of this disclosure is described and explained in the following detailed description with reference to non-limiting aspects, embodiments, examples, features, elements, steps, and / or other information presented herein and, where appropriate, shown in the non-limiting drawings and / or figures attached thereto. A person skilled in the art will readily understand that, with the understanding that the foregoing may change, any other modifications and any combination thereof may be contemplated without departing from the scope of this disclosure, even if not expressly disclosed herein.

[0095]

[0118] The express and implied content of this disclosure is intended solely to enable a person skilled in the art to understand one or more ways in which the subject matter claimed herein can be carried out. Therefore, the express and implied content of this disclosure should not be construed as limiting the scope of the subject matter claimed herein, as defined solely by the appended claims and applicable law.

[0096]

[0119] Similarly, the terms used herein are solely for the purpose of describing and explaining the subject matter claimed, and are not intended to limit its scope. Unless otherwise defined, all technical, engineering, scientific, and other related terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art.

[0097]

[0120] With the foregoing in mind, this disclosure relates in general to an MCS device, or assembled pump system, comprising a plurality of pumps, such as a first pump and a second pump (also referred to herein as “implantable pump,” “intraluminal pump,” or “transcatheter pump”). The assembled pump system is transitionable from an unassembled state to an assembled state and / or from an assembled state to an unassembled state. In the unassembled state, the assembled pump system can be advanced into, delivered to, and implanted in the body of a subject, as well as retrieved and removed from the body of the subject. In the assembled state, the first and second pumps are assembled together, and the assembled pump system can be operated, for example, to produce a hemodynamic effect in the body of the subject. The assembled pump system can also be operated in an unassembled state. The assembled pump system can be used in the body of a subject by a transcatheter approach.

[0098]

[0121] Figures 1 to 3 schematically show various states of the assembled pump system 100 according to the embodiment.

[0099]

[0122] Figure 1 schematically shows an assembled pump system 100, according to one or more embodiments, which includes a first pump 102 having a first pumping unit 104 and a coupler 114, and a second pump 122 having a second pumping unit 124 and a drive line 130 (which may also be referred to herein as a “control wire”), wherein the drive line 130 is configured to transmit power to the second pumping unit 124 in order to operate the second pumping unit 124 when the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are assembled together via the coupler 114. The coupler 114 may be provided on the first pumping unit 104 of the first pump 102 and / or the drive line 110 (which may also be referred to herein as a “control wire”). The coupler 114 can be configured to reversibly or irreversibly connect the second pumping unit 124 and / or drive line 130 of the second pump 122 in order to assemble the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 together. The coupler 114 can be configured to transmit power between the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 in order to operate the first pumping unit 104 when the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are assembled. The first pump 102 may optionally include a drive line 110 configured to supply power to the first pumping unit 104 in order to operate it. Thus, power can be supplied to the first pumping unit 104 via the coupler 114 and / or drive line 110.

[0100]

[0123] Figure 2 schematically illustrates an assembled pump system 100, comprising a first pump 102 having a first pumping unit 104 and a second pump 122 having a second pumping unit 124 and a drive line 130, wherein the drive line 130 is configured to transmit power to the second pumping unit 124 to operate it when the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are assembled together via a coupler 134. The coupler 134 may be provided on the second pumping unit 124 and / or the drive line 130 of the second pump 122. The coupler 134 may be configured to reversibly or irreversibly connect the first pumping unit 104 and / or the drive line 110 of the first pump 102 for assembling the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 together. The coupler 134 can be configured to transmit power between the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 in order to operate the first pumping unit 104 when the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are assembled. The first pump 102 may optionally include a driveline 110 configured to supply power to the first pumping unit 104 in order to operate it. Thus, power can be supplied to the first pumping unit 104 via the coupler 134 and / or the driveline 110.

[0101]

[0124] Figure 3 schematically shows an assembled pump system 100, according to one or more embodiments, which includes a first pump 102 having a first pumping unit 104 and a first coupler 116, and a second pump 122 having a second pumping unit 124, a second coupler 226 and a drive line 130, wherein the drive line 130 is configured to transmit power to the second pumping unit 124 to operate the second pumping unit 124 when the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are assembled together via the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226. The first coupler 116 may be provided on the first pumping unit 104 and / or drive line 110 of the first pump 122. The first coupler 116 can be configured to reversibly or irreversibly connect the second pumping unit 124, drive line 130, and / or the second coupler 226 of the second pump 122 in order to assemble the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 together. The second coupler 226 can be provided on the second pumping unit 124 and / or drive line 130 of the second pump 122. The second coupler 226 can be configured to reversibly or irreversibly connect the first pumping unit 104, drive line 110, and / or the first coupler 116 of the first pump 102 in order to assemble the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 together. One or both of the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 may be configured to transmit power between the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 in order to operate the first pumping unit 104 when the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are assembled. The first coupler 116 may be coupler 114, and the second coupler 226 may be coupler 134. The first pump 102 may optionally include a driveline 110 configured to transmit power to the first pumping unit 104 in order to operate the first pumping unit 104. Thus, power can be supplied to the first pumping unit 104 via the first coupler 116, the second coupler 226 and / or the driveline 110.

[0102]

[0125] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the transition of the assembled pump system 100 between the assembled state and the unassembled state in which the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are not assembled to each other via couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226 can be achieved, according to the embodiment, by operating the drive line 130 and / or drive line 110 (if present). The assembled pump system 100 can be transitioned from the assembled state to the unassembled state and / or from the unassembled state to the assembled state. In particular, by optionally pushing and pulling one of the drive lines 110 and 130 while pushing the other of the drive lines 110 and 130, at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be moved toward the other of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, thereby transitioning the assembled pump system 100 from the unassembled state to the assembled state. By optionally pushing one of the drive lines 110 and 130 while pulling the other drive line 110 or 130, at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be moved toward the other pump 122, thereby transitioning the assembled pump system 100 from an unassembled state to an assembled state. By optionally pushing one of the drive lines 110 or 130 while pulling the other drive line 110 or 130, at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be moved toward the other pump 122, thereby transitioning the assembled pump system 100 from an assembled state to an unassembled state. By optionally pushing one of the drive lines 110 and 130 while pulling the other drive line 110 or 130, at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be moved away from the other, thereby transitioning the assembled pump system 100 from an assembled state to an unassembled state.

[0103]

[0126] A portion of one or both of the drivelines 110 and 130, which are located outside the target body (i.e., "outside the body"), can be operated to transition the modular pump system 100, which is located inside the target body (i.e., "inside the body"), between an assembled and an unassembled state. For example, the modular pump system 100 can be positioned in a lumen of the target body (i.e., "inside the lumen"). Thus, the modular pump system 100 can be transitioned between an assembled and an unassembled state at an implantation site inside the target body.

[0104]

[0127] Still referring to Figures 1-3, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 may be impeller pumps, and therefore the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 may each include, according to one or more embodiments, a first impeller 106 and a second impeller 126 for giving movement to a fluid such as blood when rotated. As shown, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 may also include a first drive unit 108 and a second drive unit 128, such as electric motors configured to rotate the first impeller 106 and the second impeller 126, respectively. Also, to supply power to the first drive unit 108 and the second drive unit 128, the first drive line 110 and the second drive line 130 may include electrical conductors 112 and 132 configured to transmit electricity from a power source to the first drive unit 108 and the second drive unit 128, respectively.

[0105]

[0128] Figures 4 to 6 show various modes of pump-to-pump coupling (as indicated by double-headed arrows) between the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 according to several embodiments. In particular, Figure 4 shows, according to one or more embodiments, a state in which the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are connected to each other via the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, respectively (also referred to herein as unit-to-unit coupling). Figure 5 shows, according to one or more embodiments, a state in which the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are connected to each other via the first pumping unit 104 and the drive line 130, respectively (also referred to herein as unit-to-drive line coupling). Figure 6 shows, according to one or more embodiments, a state in which the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are connected to each other via the drive lines 110 and 130, respectively (also referred to herein as drive line-to-drive line coupling).

[0106]

[0129] Figures 7 to 15 show various configurations of couplers 114 and 134 according to the embodiment, as well as various configurations of the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 associated with the first pump 102 and the second pump 122.

[0107]

[0130] Referring to Figure 4, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are connected to each other by their first pumping unit 104 and second pumping unit 124, respectively, that is, via inter-unit connections. In particular, Figure 7 shows a coupler 114 associated with the first pumping unit 104 and connecting to the second pumping unit 124, according to one or more embodiments. Figure 8 shows a coupler 134 associated with the second pumping unit 124 and connecting to the first pumping unit 104, according to one or more embodiments. Figure 9 shows a first coupler 116 and a second coupler 226 associated with and connecting to the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, respectively, according to one or more embodiments.

[0108]

[0131] Referring to Figure 5, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are connected to each other by the drive lines 130 of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pump 122, i.e., via a unit-drive line connection. In particular, Figure 10 shows a coupler 114 associated with the first pumping unit 104 and connecting the drive line 130 of the second pump 122, according to one or more embodiments. Figure 11 shows a coupler 134 associated with the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 and connecting the first pumping unit 104, according to one or more embodiments. Figure 12 shows a first coupler 116 associated with the first pumping unit 104 and a second coupler 226 associated with the drive line 130 of the second pump 122, according to one or more embodiments, where the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 are connected to each other.

[0109]

[0132] Referring to Figure 6, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are connected to each other by their drivelines 110 and 130, respectively, i.e., via driveline connections. In particular, Figure 13 shows a coupler 114 associated with the driveline 110 of the first pump 102 and connecting the driveline 130 of the second pump 122, according to one or more embodiments. Figure 14 shows a coupler 134 associated with the driveline 130 of the second pump 122 and connecting the driveline 110 of the first pump 102, according to one or more embodiments. Figure 15 shows a first coupler 116 associated with the driveline 110 of the first pump 102 and a second coupler 226 associated with the driveline 130 of the second pump 122, according to one or more embodiments, where the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 are connected to each other.

[0110]

[0133] Figures 16 to 24 show the assembled pump system 100 in an unassembled state (Figures 16, 22, and 23) and an assembled state (Figures 17 to 21, and 24) according to several embodiments.

[0111]

[0134] In the unassembled state, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are positioned longitudinally, one behind the other, as shown in the embodiments of Figures 16 and 22, for example, so that if the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 have the same cross-sectional size, the cross-sectional size of the assembled pump system 100 will generally correspond to the cross-sectional size of one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122. If the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 have different cross-sectional sizes, the cross-sectional size of the unassembled assembled pump system 100 will generally correspond to the cross-sectional size of the one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 that has the larger cross-sectional size. The assembled pump system 100, in its unassembled state, can be housed in a sheath (shown as an optional element by dashed lines in Figures 16, 31, 34, 37, 39, 42, 44, 46, and 49), the sheath can be used to advance the assembled pump system 100 into the target internal conduit, such as the target vascular system including the target cardiac chambers, for implantation and removal.

[0112]

[0135] In the assembled state, as will be further described herein in relation to Figures 22-24, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are positioned laterally adjacent to each other, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 24, for example, so that the cross-sectional size of the assembled pump system 100 is approximately corresponding to the cross-sectional size of both the first pump 102 and the second pump 122. Thus, the assembled pump system 100 has a smaller cross-sectional size in the unassembled state than in the assembled state, which is advantageous for advancing, delivering, implanting, retrieving, and removing the assembled pump system 100 within the body and within lumens, such as within the lumen of a conduit in the body of a subject, which is not necessarily suitable for larger medical devices where the cross-sectional size cannot be reduced. Typically, the assembled pump system 100 transitions in situ from an unassembled state to an assembled state, such as at an implantation site inside the body of a subject, and then operates to provide, for example, hemodynamic support.

[0113]

[0136] The assembled pump system 100 can be operated in both assembled and unassembled states. For example, in the unassembled state, as shown in Figures 25 and 26, the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned offset from each other, similar to the offset positioning in Figure 18. Advantageously, this relative offset position improves the blood flow performance of at least one of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124.

[0114]

[0137] Implantation sites for the modular pump system 100 include lumens of the vascular system, including cardiac chambers; lumens of hollow organs; lumens of body cavities; lumens of artificially created conduits using autologous tissue, allografts, or artificial materials (e.g., a bypass made of femoral vein or braided polyester conduit); and any other possible lumens of the subject's body. In particular, implantation sites include lumens of the left and right ventricles, left and right atria, aorta, vena cava, pulmonary artery, coronary artery, coronary sinus, ductus arteriosus, renal artery, femoral artery, and coronary artery bypass grafts.

[0115]

[0138] Figure 16 shows an unassembled, prefabricated pump system 100 comprising a first pumping unit 104 and a second pumping unit 124, in one or more embodiments, which are impeller pumps positioned longitudinally relative to each other. In particular, when housed in a sheath, the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are head-to-tail relative to each other, i.e., the distal impeller receiving end of the first pumping unit 104 is directed toward the proximal driveline receiving end of the second pumping unit 124. The first pumping unit 104 is positioned proximal to the second pumping unit 124, such that the second pumping unit 124 exits the sheath first, followed by the first pumping unit 104.

[0116]

[0139] While generally desirable, a sheath is not always necessary for advancing, delivering, implanting, retrieving, and removing the assembled pump system 100 in vivo. In practice, each of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be advanced, delivered, implanted, retrieved, and removed in vivo by pulling and / or pushing the drive lines 110 and 130, respectively, without the need for the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 to be housed in a sheath.

[0117]

[0140] Each of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 may also define a rail guide hole or similar structure configured to receive a guidewire (not shown), such structure is configured to deliver and implant the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 in vivo by moving them along the guidewire. In short, the guidewire is first guided along the lumen of a target internal conduit, such as the target vascular system, to the implantation site. The first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, in an unassembled state and positioned longitudinally one another relative to the other, are then carried along the guidewire and thus guided to an implantation site where they can be assembled and operated.

[0118]

[0141] Figures 17 to 21 show an assembled pump system 100 in an assembled state, in which a first pumping unit 104 and a second pumping unit 124, which are also impeller pumps in this case, are positioned laterally adjacent to each other via inter-unit couplings. Depending on the coupling mode and the integration of couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226 to the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 can have various positions relative to each other.

[0119]

[0142] As shown in Figure 17, according to one or more embodiments, the assembled first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned parallel to each other. In particular, the distal impeller receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned side by side, and the proximal driveline receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are also positioned side by side.

[0120]

[0143] As shown in Figure 18, according to one or more embodiments, the assembled first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned parallel to each other with an offset relative to one another. In particular, the distal impeller receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned longitudinally with an offset relative to one another, and the proximal driveline receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are also positioned longitudinally with an offset relative to one another. Couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226 can optionally be integrated with the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 in an offset manner to achieve the relative parallel offset position of the assembled first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124. Advantageously, this relative offset position improves the blood flow performance of at least one of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124.

[0121]

[0144] As shown in Figure 19, according to one or more embodiments, the assembled first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 intersect each other (in Figure 19, only the first coupler 116 is shown as a dashed line, as seen through the first pumping unit 104). In particular, the distal impeller receiving end and drive line receiving end of the first pumping unit 104 are generally positioned toward both sides of the second pumping unit 124. Similarly, the distal impeller receiving end and drive line receiving end of the second pumping unit 124 are generally positioned toward both sides of the first pumping unit 104. Couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226 can optionally be integrated between their distal impeller receiving end and drive line receiving end in the corresponding intermediate portions of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit to achieve this intersection position.

[0122]

[0145] As shown in Figure 20, according to one or more embodiments, the assembled first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned non-parallel to each other at a certain angle. In particular, the distal impeller receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are further spaced apart than the proximal driveline receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124. Thus, the proximal driveline receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned facing each other. Couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226 can optionally be integrated into the proximal driveline receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 to achieve this non-parallel angled position of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 in the assembled state.

[0123]

[0146] As shown in Figure 21, according to one or more embodiments, the assembled first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are also positioned non-parallel to each other at a certain angle. In particular, the proximal drive line receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are further spaced apart than the distal impeller receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124. Thus, the distal impeller receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned facing each other. Couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226 can optionally be integrated into the distal impeller receiving ends of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 to achieve this non-parallel angled position of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 in the assembled state.

[0124]

[0147] Figures 16 to 21 show the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226, but couplers 114 and 134 can achieve the same relative positioning between the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 in an assembled state, as shown in Figures 17 to 21 and described herein, with necessary modifications that are understandable to those skilled in the art as needed.

[0125]

[0148] Because it is transitionable between an unassembled and assembled state, the assembled pump system 100 can advantageously change its cross-sectional size to reduce its insertion thickness for insertion through internal body access to the subject, such as intraluminal body access to the subject, and to reduce its footprint for advancing into the lumen of internal conduits to the subject, such as the vascular system to the subject, including the cardiac chambers. This makes the assembled pump system 100 suitable for internal conduits to the subject, which is generally not possible for larger medical devices whose cross-sectional size cannot be reduced.

[0126]

[0149] In practice, as shown in Figures 22 and 23, the assembled pump system 100 in its unassembled state (the internal conduit is shown as an environmental element with dashed lines in Figures 22 to 24) has a cross-sectional size corresponding to the sum of the cross-sectional size of the first pumping unit 104 and the cross-sectional size of the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 (as shown in Figure 23). The first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned (as shown in Figure 22) in the longitudinal direction relative to each other within the lumen of the internal conduit of the target body.

[0127]

[0150] For comparison, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 24, the assembled prefabricated pump system 100, in which the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned laterally adjacent to each other within the lumen of the internal conduit of the subject, has a maximum cross-sectional size corresponding to the cross-sectional sizes of both the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124. Thus, the unassembled prefabricated pump system 100 can advantageously be inserted through the internal body access of the subject and advanced into the lumen of the internal conduit of the subject, where the assembled prefabricated pump system 100, or any other medical device of such size, cannot advance due to size limitations.

[0128]

[0151] Referring again to Figure 23, in some embodiments, the drive line 130 transmits electricity to the second pumping unit 124, which in turn supplies electricity to the first pumping unit 104 via couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226. In these embodiments, the drive line 110 may, if applicable, not have an electrical conductor 112, and therefore the cross-sectional size of the drive line 110 can be reduced compared to the case where the electrical conductor 112 is provided. This further advantageously reduces the cross-sectional size of the assembled pump system 100 in its unassembled state.

[0129]

[0152] Figures 25 and 26 show how the assembled pump system 100 can be transitioned from an unassembled state to an assembled state, and from an assembled state to an unassembled state, by operating at least one of the drive lines 110 and 130 to move at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 (shown as surrounding objects by dashed lines in Figures 25 and 26) in correspondence along the lumen of the internal conduit of the target. In particular, by operating the drive line 130 and / or the drive line 110 (if present), at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 moves toward the other of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, and the first coupler 116 physically engages and connects with the second coupler 226. Operation of driveline 130 and / or driveline 110 (if present) corresponds to moving at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 away from the other, and the first coupler 116 is physically disengaged and disconnected from the second coupler 226.

[0130]

[0153] As illustrated, according to one or more embodiments, the first pumping unit 104 is positioned proximal to the second pumping unit 124 in the lumen of the internal conduit of the subject and is ready for assembly. To transition from the unassembled state to the assembled state, the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 can be operated and pulled (as indicated by the downward-pointing arrow in Figure 25) to move the second pumping unit 124 along the lumen toward the first pumping unit 104 for assembly. Alternatively, or further, the drive line 110 (if present) of the first pump 102 may be operated and pushed (as indicated by the upward-pointing arrow in Figure 26) to move the first pumping unit 104 along the lumen toward the second pumping unit 124 for assembly. To transition from the assembled state to the unassembled state, the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 can be operated and pushed (as indicated by the upward-pointing arrow in Figure 25) to move the second pumping unit 124 along the lumen away from the first pumping unit 104 in order to separate it. Alternatively, or further, the drive line 110 (if present) of the first pump 102 can be operated and pulled (as indicated by the downward-pointing arrow in Figure 26) to move the first pumping unit 104 longitudinally along the lumen away from the second pumping unit 124 in order to separate it.

[0131]

[0154] The drivelines 110 and 130 are configured to be advanced within the body of the target, such as within the lumen of an internal conduit. Therefore, the drivelines 110 and 130 can have sufficient flexibility to be properly introduced and advanced within the body and within the lumen. The drivelines 110 and 130 are also configured to be operated by pulling and / or pushing, etc., to transition the assembled pump system 100 between an unassembled state and an assembled state, as described herein. In particular, each respective part of the drivelines 110 and 130 may be placed within the lumen, inside or outside the body, and can be operated to transition the assembled pump system 100 within the lumen of an internal conduit of the target from an unassembled state to an assembled state, and from an assembled state to an unassembled state.

[0132]

[0155] To facilitate the pushing of the pumping units 104 and 124, each of the drive lines 110 and 130 may be provided with a separate longitudinal cavity configured to receive a guide wire. Guide wires of varying stiffness or structural rigidity can be inserted into the longitudinal cavity to adjust the stiffness or structural rigidity of the drive lines 110 and 130 and to reduce or prevent bending and folding of the drive lines 110 and 130 when a pushing force is applied to them. For example, referring to Figure 25, a guide wire of a given stiffness or structural rigidity can be inserted into the drive line 110 (if present) to hold the first pumping unit 104 in place by applying a pushing force to the drive line 110 while the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 is being pulled (as indicated by the downward-pointing arrow in Figure 25). Furthermore, a guide wire of a given stiffness or structural rigidity can be inserted into the drive line 130, thereby allowing the second pumping unit 124 to be pushed away from the first pumping unit 104 (as indicated by the upward-pointing arrow in Figure 25) for disassembly.

[0133]

[0156] The use of guidewires with varying stiffness or structural rigidity may be useful for implanting and removing assembled pump systems without using a sheath (i.e., via a non-transcatheter approach), and for providing tactile feedback to the operator as the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are advanced within the lumen. The selection of such guidewires and their stiffness or structural rigidity may depend on the morphology of the vascular system being treated and / or the medical procedure being performed.

[0134]

[0157] In one or more embodiments, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are configured to be assembled and isolated from each other by stereotaxis, for example, by using a stereotaxis magnetic navigation system. In this case, the assembled pump system 100 does not need to have drive lines 110, 130, and the assembled pump system 100 may be configured to receive power wirelessly from a receiving coil by transcutaneous energy transmission (TET) or the like for its operation.

[0135]

[0158] Figure 27 shows a modular pump system 100, in one or more embodiments, which includes a pumping unit anchor 240 that is removablely or non-removably attached to a first pumping unit 104. The pumping unit anchor 240 has a non-expanded state configured to advance, deliver, and implant the modular pump system 100 in vivo, and an expanded state configured to fix the modular pump system 100 in vivo. As shown, the modular pump system 100 in the assembled state is fixed to the lumen of the internal conduit (shown as a surrounding object by dashed lines) by the pumping unit anchor 240 in the expanded state, which engages with the inner wall of the lumen of the internal conduit of the target. Once fixed in this state, the first pumping unit 104 becomes immobile in the lumen, and the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 can be operated to move the second pumping unit 124 toward the first pumping unit 104 for assembly. Alternatively, or further as described herein, the first pumping unit 104 may be immobilized within the lumen by holding a drive line 110 (if present) that receives a guide wire of appropriate stiffness or structural rigidity within its longitudinal cavity.

[0136]

[0159] Figure 28 shows an assembled pump system 100 in which, according to one or more embodiments, a pumping unit anchor 240 is provided that is removable or non-removably attached to the first pumping unit 104, and a driveline anchor 242 is also provided that is removable or non-removably attached to the first pumping unit 104. Since the driveline anchor 242 is generally similar to the pumping unit anchor 240, for the sake of brevity, the driveline anchor 242 will not be described further in this specification. Where applicable, it will be understood that similar descriptions, including those relating to Figures 34-36, apply to the driveline anchor 242 and the pumping unit anchor 240, with necessary modifications that will be understandable to those skilled in the art.

[0137]

[0160] Advantageously, the combination of the pumping unit and driveline anchors 240 and 242 provides the assembled pump system 100 with greater fixation stability when implanted in the lumen compared to when either the pumping unit or the driveline anchors 240 and 242 are used alone. The longitudinal distance separating the pumping unit and driveline anchors 240 and 242 along the first pump 102 reduces the tendency of the assembled pump system 100 to pivot in response to the movement of the drivelines 130 and 110 (if present) and to contact the inner wall of the lumen of the internal conduit in the target body.

[0138]

[0161] In some embodiments, the assembled pump system 100 may be provided only with a driveline anchor 242 that is removable or non-removable to at least one of the drivelines 110 and 130, and the pumping unit anchor 240 is not provided in the assembled pump system 100.

[0139]

[0162] The pumping units and driveline anchors 240, 242 may be self-expanding anchors that are biased toward an expanded state, and therefore may be transitioned from an expanded state to a non-expanded state by pushing them into the sheath.

[0140]

[0163] Figures 25 to 28 show the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226, but the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 may be provided with the corresponding couplers 114 and 134, and the drive line 130 and / or drive line 110 (if present) may be operated to move at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 in correspondence to transition the assembled pump system 100 between an unassembled state and an assembled state, with necessary modifications that are understandable to those skilled in the art as needed.

[0141]

[0164] In particular, operation of driveline 130 and / or driveline 110 (if present) causes at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 to move toward the other of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, causing coupler 114 to physically engage and connect with the second pump 122, or coupler 134 to physically engage and connect with the first pump 102. Operation of driveline 130 and / or driveline 110 (if present) causes at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 to move toward the other of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, causing coupler 114 to physically disengage and disconnect from the second pump 122, or coupler 134 to physically disengage and disconnect from the first pump 102.

[0142]

[0165] Furthermore, Figures 25 and 26 show the inter-unit connection between the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, but the drive line 130 and / or drive line 110 (if present) may be operated to move correspondingly at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 in order to transition the assembled pump system 100 between an unassembled state and an assembled state via the unit-drive line connection and the inter-drive line connection, with necessary modifications that are understandable to those skilled in the art as needed.

[0143]

[0166] Referring again to Figures 1 to 3, the modular pump system 100 can be powered in multiple ways. According to one or more embodiments, the modular pump system 100 may be electrically powered, in which case the drive lines 130 and 110 (if present) may be referred to as electrical cables or electrical wires. In particular, the modular pump system 100 may be powered solely by the drive line 130, which transmits power from a power source to a second pumping unit 124, which further, if applicable, supplies power to the first pumping unit 104 via couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226. In this case, each of the couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226 has a physical component configured to physically engage with the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 and connect them to one another, and an electrical component configured to transmit power between the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 when the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are in an assembled state. Alternatively, the assembled pump system 100 may be powered by both drivelines 130 and 110 (if provided). In this case, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be operated independently of each other. The couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226 may or may not have an electrical component.

[0144]

[0167] According to one or more embodiments, the assembled pump system 100 can be powered by transcutaneous energy transmission (TET). In particular, one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be configured to be powered by TET, and therefore to wirelessly receive power from an externally located power source. The TET-powered first pump 102 and the second pump 122 optionally power the other of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 via couplers 114, 134, 116, 226, as described herein with respect to their physical and electrical components. Alternatively, both the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 may be configured to be powered by TET. In this case, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be operated independently of each other. The couplers 114, 134, 116, 226 may or may not have electrical components.

[0145]

[0168] According to one or more embodiments, the assembled pump system 100 may be mechanically powered. In particular, each of the drive lines 130 and 110 (if present) may include their respective drive shafts rotatably connected to the first impeller 106 and the second impeller 126, respectively. In this case, the first drive unit 108 and the second drive unit 128 are not integrated with the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, but instead are integrated with the distal ends of the corresponding drive lines 110, 130 and their drive shafts, which protrude from the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, respectively.

[0146]

[0169] The drive lines 110 (if present) and 130 may or may not be detachable from the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, respectively. For example, a modular pump system 100 powered through both drive lines 110 and 130 may be configured to operate through only one of the drive lines by removing one of them.

[0147]

[0170] The assembled pump system 100 is not limited to the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, and may include any number of pumps that can be transitioned from an unassembled state to an assembled state and from an assembled state to an unassembled state by the operation of one or more corresponding drive lines, with necessary modifications that are understandable to those skilled in the art as needed.

[0148]

[0171] Figure 29 shows an assembled pump system 100 including three pumps 250, 252, and 254. Pumps 250, 252, and 254 can be transitioned between an unassembled and assembled state by operating at least one of their drivelines. As shown, according to one or more embodiments, pumps 250, 252, and 254 are in an assembled configuration within the lumen of a conduit in the body of a subject (shown as a surrounding object by dashed lines in Figure 29) and are positioned laterally adjacent to each other, generally defining a triangle.

[0149]

[0172] Figure 30 shows an assembled pump system 100 including four pumps 250, 252, 254, and 256. Pumps 250, 252, 254, and 256 can be transitioned between an unassembled and assembled state by operating at least one of their drivelines. As shown, according to one or more embodiments, pumps 250, 252, 254, and 256 are in an assembled form within the lumen of an internal conduit of a subject (shown as a dashed line as a surrounding object in Figure 29) and are positioned laterally adjacent to each other so as to define a generally triangular shape at its center point, receiving one pump 256.

[0150]

[0173] The modular pump system 100 can include up to 10 pumps, each with a cross-sectional size of approximately 4-6 mm, and can still be advanced into the lumen of the descending aorta of the subject and delivered within it, even when in an unassembled state. The modular pump system 100 can then be transitioned in situ from an unassembled state to an assembled state and operated to provide hemodynamic support to the subject.

[0151]

[0174] For example, referring to Figures 29 and 30, depending on the number and cross-sectional size of the pumps, the assembled pump system 100 may not completely occupy the entire diameter space of the lumen, thus allowing blood to flow between the pump and the lumen wall and / or between the pump itself. Advantageously, even if the device fails or malfunctions, blood can continue to flow downstream of the assembled pump system 100.

[0152]

[0175] Advantageously, given its multi-pump design, the assembled pump system 100 can operate at relatively low impeller rotation speeds, such as approximately 5,000 rpm to 30,000 rpm for each of the first impeller 106 and the second impeller 126, and still generate a blood flow outflow sufficient to provide hemodynamic support, such as approximately 1 L / min to 3 L / min. For example, an assembled pump system 100 with three pumps operating at approximately 5,000 rpm to 30,000 rpm would generate approximately 1.5 L / min to 5 L / min. In comparison, some single-impeller blood pumps generally need to operate at relatively high impeller rotation speeds, such as approximately 15,000 to 60,000 rpm, to generate a similar blood flow outflow sufficient to provide hemodynamic support.

[0153]

[0176] Considering all factors, the operation of some single-impeller blood pumps at relatively high impeller rotation speeds results in more blood damage, such as blood damage caused by impeller-induced scalar shear stress, compared to the operation of multi-pump designs like the assembled pump system 100 at relatively low impeller rotation speeds. Therefore, the assembled pump system 100 can be implanted and operated in the target vascular system for a relatively longer period than any single-impeller blood pump, and thus the assembled pump system 100 is relatively suitable for long-term or chronic conditions such as bridging to heart transplantation or destination therapy. Compared to a single pump device, the multi-pump design of the assembled pump system 100 also has the advantage of providing more pump redundancy in the event of device failure.

[0154]

[0177] Here, with reference to Figures 31 to 50, several embodiments of the assembled pump system 100 will be described.

[0155]

[0178] Figures 31 to 33 show an assembled pump system 100, in one or more embodiments, which includes a first pump 102 provided with a coupler 114, which is a pump receiving coupler 3100, and a second pump 122 provided with a stopper such as a protrusion 3102. The pump receiving coupler 3100 defines an opening 3104 (best shown in Figure 32), which is sized and shaped to slidably receive the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 and the second pump 122 into it. The pump receiving coupler 3100 is configured to abut against the protrusion 3102 to stop the relative sliding of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 when in operation. The pump receiving coupler 3100 can also be configured to be transitionable between a non-deployed state and a deployed state, as will be described later.

[0156]

[0179] As shown in Figure 31, the assembled pump system 100 is in an unassembled state in which the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are housed in a sheath (shown as a surrounding object by dashed lines), and the pump receiving coupler 3100 is in an undeployed state for delivery to the implantation site. Although not shown, when the pump receiving coupler 3100 is in an undeployed state, it can be shaped and sized to match the outer size and shape of the first pumping unit 104, so that the cross-sectional size of the first pumping unit 104 is the same as or substantially the same as when the pump receiving coupler 3100 is not provided on the first pump 102.

[0157]

[0180] As shown in Figure 32, the assembled pump system 100 is still in an unassembled state, but the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 have emerged from their sheaths (not shown) and been delivered to the implantation site, ready to be assembled together by operating at least one of the drivelines 110 and 130, respectively, as described herein. Furthermore, the pump receiving coupler 3100 has now transitioned from a non-deployed state to an deployed state. If the pump receiving coupler 3100 is made of a memory material such as nitinol or silicone, and is biased in a way that it can overcome toward the deployed state, it can spontaneously transition from a non-deployed state to an deployed state. Alternatively, the pump receiving coupler 3100 can transition from a non-deployed state to an deployed state by being spring-loaded in a way that it can overcome toward the deployed state, such as by pivoting or translating relative to the first pumping unit 104. If it is spring-loaded, the pump receiving coupler 3100 may or may not be made of a memory material.

[0158]

[0181] In embodiments in which the prefabricated pump system 100 is deliverable via catheter, the pump receiving coupler 3100 is configured to automatically transition from a non-deployed state to a deployed state when the sheath releases the constraints applied to the pump receiving coupler 3100 while it is out of the sheath during delivery, provided that the coupler is biased to overcome toward a deployed state. Conversely, the pump receiving coupler 3100 can also be configured to transition from a deployed state back to a non-deployed state when the prefabricated pump system 100 is reinserted into the sheath for retrieval.

[0159]

[0182] Alternatively, the drive line 110 of the first pump 102 may include an operating mechanism (not shown) connected to the pump receiving coupler 3100, which can be operated by an operator to move the pump receiving coupler 3100 between a non-deployed state and an deployed state when the assembled pump system 100 is outside an optional sheath.

[0160]

[0183] As shown in Figure 33, at this time the assembled pump system 100 is in an assembled state as a result of the sliding operation of at least one of the drive lines 110 and 130 and the relative movement of at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, as described herein. The second pumping unit 124 is received in the opening 3104 of the pump receiving coupler 3100, which is attached to the first pumping unit 104. The protrusion 3102 of the second pump 122 abuts against the pump receiving coupler 3100, preventing the relative movement of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 by pushing the drive line 110 of the first pump 102 and / or pulling the drive line of the second pump 122.

[0161]

[0184] In this embodiment, in addition to providing a pump receiving coupler 3100 to the assembled pump system 100, one or more magnets (not shown) and / or a first electrical connector 4400 and a second electrical connector 4402 (not shown in Figures 31 to 33, but described with reference to Figures 44 and 45) may also be provided. The magnets and / or the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 may be provided on the pump receiving coupler 3100, the raised portion 3102, or as separate components of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122.

[0162]

[0185] For example, a magnet (not shown) may be provided on either the pump receiving coupler 3100 or the raised portion 3102, while the other of the pump receiving coupler 3100 or the raised portion 3102 may include a ferromagnetic material (not shown) or another magnet (not shown) for magnetically coupling the magnet. Alternatively, two magnets and a ferromagnetic material may be provided in other locations on the first pump 102 and the second pump 122.

[0163]

[0186] Furthermore, for example, as described below, a first electrical connector 4400 and a second electrical connector 4402 may be provided on the pump receiving coupler 3100 and the raised portion 3102, respectively, to transmit electricity between them when they are electrically connected together. Alternatively, the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be provided in other locations on the first pump 102 and the second pump 122.

[0164]

[0187] In this embodiment, the pump receiving coupler 3100 is disclosed as a ring having a size and shape that allows a tubular-sized pumping unit to be received inside; however, it will be understood that the pump receiving coupler 3100 and the second pumping unit 124 may each have any other complementary fitting size and shape that allows the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 to engage with each other and be assembled together.

[0165]

[0188] Figures 34 to 36 show a prefabricated pump system 100, comprising a first pump 102 having a pumping unit anchor 240 with a coupler 114 which is a pump receiving coupler 3400, and a second pump 122 having abutment portions such as a pair of tabs 3402, according to one or more embodiments. Similar to the pump receiving coupler 3100, the pump receiving coupler 3400 defines an opening 3406 (best shown in Figure 35) that is sized and shaped to slidably receive the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 and the second pump 122 inside. The pump receiving coupler 3400 is configured to abut against a pair of tabs 3402 (which in this embodiment replaces the raised portion 3102) to stop relative sliding between the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 when in operation.

[0166]

[0189] Since the pump receiving coupler 3400 is generally similar to the pump receiving coupler 3100, the pump receiving coupler 3400 will be briefly described below. Where applicable, it will be understood that the same description applies to pump receiving couplers 3400 and 3100, with necessary modifications that are understandable to those skilled in the art.

[0167]

[0190] The pumping unit anchor 240 has a non-expanded state as shown in Figure 34 and an expanded state as shown in Figures 35 and 36. In the non-expanded state, the pumping unit anchor 240 is sized and shaped to deliver the assembled pump system 100 in a lumen. For transcatheter delivery, the assembled pump system 100, in its unassembled state with the pumping unit anchor 240 in the non-expanded state, is housed in a sheath (shown as a surrounding object by dashed lines in Figure 34). In this case, the pumping unit anchor 240 can be made of a memory material such as nitinol and can be biased in a way that allows it to overcome the need to expand so that it is self-expandable. When biased towards the expanded state, the pumping unit anchor 240 is maintained in the non-expanded state by being constrained by the sheath and automatically transitions to the expanded state when the constraint is removed while it is outside the sheath. Alternatively, the pumping unit anchor 240 may be balloon-inflatable. In this case, the pumping unit anchor 240 can be made of a malleable material such as stainless steel or titanium.

[0168]

[0191] In the extended state, the pumping unit anchor 240 is sized and shaped to engage with and apply force to the wall of the lumen into which the modular pump system 100 is implanted. Fixed to the lumen wall, the modular pump system 100 is held in place, thereby allowing at least one of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 to be immobilized while the other of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 can be moved by pulling or pushing the corresponding drive lines 110, 130, in order to assemble and disassemble the modular pump system 100.

[0169]

[0192] As shown in Figure 34, the assembled pump system 100 is in an unassembled state, with the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 housed in a sheath, the pumping unit anchor 240 in a non-extended state, and the pump receiving coupler 3400 in a non-deployed state for delivery to the implantation site.

[0170]

[0193] As shown in Figure 35, the prefabricated pump system 100 is still in an unassembled state. However, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 have emerged from their sheaths (not shown) and been delivered to the implantation site, the pumping unit anchor 240 is now in an extended state to secure the prefabricated pump system 100 at the implantation site, and the pump receiving coupler 3400 is now in an unfolded state. The first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are ready to be assembled together by operating at least one of the drivelines 110 and 130, respectively, as described herein. As shown, the pump receiving coupler 3400 is integrated with the arm 3406 of the pumping unit anchor 240. As a result of the transition of the pumping unit anchor 240 between the unextended and extended states, the pump receiving coupler 3400 also transitions between the unfolded and extended states, respectively. If the pumping unit anchor 240 is made of a memory material such as nitinol, which is biased in a way that it can overcome toward the expanded state, it can automatically transition from the unexpanded state to the expanded state. Alternatively, the pumping unit anchor 240 may be made of a malleable material and transition from the unexpanded state to the expanded state by expanding it using a balloon catheter, as is known in the art.

[0171]

[0194] As shown in Figure 36, the assembled pump system 100 is at this time in an assembled state as a result of the sliding operation of the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 and the movement of the second pump 122 relative to the fixed and immobile first pump 102, as described herein. The second pumping unit 124 is received in the opening 3406 of the pump receiving coupler 3400, which is integrated with the pumping unit anchor 240. A pair of tabs 3402 abut against the pump receiving coupler 3400 and prevent relative movement between the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 by pulling the drive line 130 of the second pump 122.

[0172]

[0195] In the embodiment, in addition to providing a pump receiving coupler 3400 to the assembled pump system 100, similar to the pump receiving coupler 3100, one or more magnets (not shown) and / or a first electrical connector 4400 and a second electrical connector 4402 (not shown in Figures 34 to 36, but as described in relation to Figures 44 and 45) may also be provided. Where applicable, it will be understood that the same description applies to the pump receiving coupler 3400 and the pump receiving 3100, with necessary modifications that are understandable to those skilled in the art.

[0173]

[0196] In this embodiment, the pump receiving coupler 3400 is disclosed herein as being integrated with the arm 3408 of the pumping unit anchor 240, but it will be understood that the pump receiving coupler 3400 may actually be integrated elsewhere on the pumping unit anchor 240, such as in a portion of it that engages with the lumen and applies force to the lumen, as long as it can connect to the second pump 122. It will be further understood that the drive line 110 of the first pump 102 is optional, as the pumping unit anchor 240 may be sufficient to hold or immobilize the first pump 102 in place within the lumen so that the second pump 122 can be slidably moved relative to the fixed first pump 102 in order to assemble and disassemble the modular pump system 100.

[0174]

[0197] Figures 37 and 38 show an assembled pump system 100, which includes a first pump 102 provided with a coupler 114, which is a pump receiving coupler 3700 fixedly mounted to a drive line 110, and a second pump 122 provided with a stopper such as a joint 3702 on its drive line 130, according to one or more embodiments. The pump receiving coupler 3700 defines an opening 3704 which is sized and shaped to slidably receive the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 (as indicated by the double-headed arrows). The pump receiving coupler 3700 is configured to abut against the joint 3702 (which replaces a protrusion 3102 in this embodiment) to stop the relative sliding between the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 when in operation. Optionally, as shown in the figure, the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 may be provided with a first magnetic connector 4200 and a second magnetic connector 4202, respectively, as will be described later. In this case, the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 are configured to magnetically connect to each other when the pump receiving coupler 3700 and the joint 3702 come into contact with each other or substantially come into contact with each other.

[0175]

[0198] Since the pump receiving coupler 3700 is generally similar to the pump receiving coupler 3102, the pump receiving coupler 3700 will be briefly described below. Where applicable, it will be understood that the same description applies to pump receiving couplers 3700 and 3102, with necessary modifications that are understandable to those skilled in the art.

[0176]

[0199] As shown in Figure 37, the prefabricated pump system 100 is in an unassembled state, with the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 housed in a sheath (shown as surrounding objects by dashed lines) so as to be delivered to the implantation site.

[0177]

[0200] In this embodiment, the pump receiving coupler 3700 is not configured to transition between a non-deployed state and a deployed state. However, if the pump receiving coupler 3700 is of a size and / or shape that would prevent it from being housed within the sheath while maintaining its ability to connect to the second pump 122, the pump receiving coupler 3700 is configured to transition between a non-deployed state and a deployed state. For this purpose, as described for the pump receiving coupler 3102, the pump receiving coupler 3700 may be made of or coupled to a memory material such as nitinol or silicone, which is biased in a way that it can overcome toward the deployed state. Alternatively, the pump receiving coupler 3700 may be spring-loaded in a way that it can overcome toward the deployed state. If it is biased in a way that it can overcome toward the deployed state or is spring-loaded, the pump receiving coupler 3700 is configured to be reinserted into the sheath for retrieval, as described for the pump receiving coupler 3102. Alternatively, the drive line 110 of the first pump 102 may include an actuation mechanism connected to the pump receiving coupler 3702, which allows an operator to move the pump receiving coupler 3702 between a non-deployed and deployed state when the assembled pump system 100 is outside an optional sheath.

[0178]

[0201] As shown in Figure 38, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 emerge from a sheath (not shown) and are delivered to the implantation site, at which point they are assembled as a result of the sliding operation of at least one of the drive lines 110 and 130 and the relative movement of at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, as described herein. The joint 3702 of the second pump 122 abuts against the pump receiving coupler 3700 and prevents the relative movement of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 by pushing the drive line 110 of the first pump 102 and / or pulling the drive line 130 of the second pump 122.

[0179]

[0202] In the embodiment, in addition to providing a pump receiving coupler 3700 to the assembled pump system 100, similar to the pump receiving coupler 3100, one or more magnets (not shown) and / or a first electrical connector 4400 and a second electrical connector 4402 (not shown in Figures 37 and 38, but as described in relation to Figures 44 and 45) may also be provided. Where applicable, it will be understood that the same description applies to the pump receiving coupler 3700 and the pump receiving 3100, with necessary modifications that will be understandable to those skilled in the art.

[0180]

[0203] Figures 39 to 41 show an assembled pump system 100, according to one or more embodiments, which includes a first pump 102 provided with a first coupler 116, which is a first physical connector such as a male connector 3900, and a second pump 122 provided with a second coupler 226, which is a second physical connector such as a female coupler 3902. The male connector 3900 and the female connector 3902 are configured to cooperatively mate or connect with each other by receiving the male connector into the female connector in order to assemble the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 together.

[0181]

[0204] As shown in Figure 39, the assembled pump system 100 is in an unassembled state, with the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 housed in a sheath (shown by dashed lines as environmental objects), and the male connector 3900 (shown by dashed lines as seen through the first pumping unit 104) in an undeployed state so as to be delivered to the implantation site. In particular, in the undeployed state, the male connector 3900 pivots toward the first pumping unit 104 so that the male connector 3900 is housed inside or substantially housed within the first pumping unit 104. Thus, in the undeployed state, the cross-sectional size of the first pumping unit 104 is the same as or substantially the same as when the male connector 3900 is not provided. Alternatively, the male connector 3900 may be configured to translate inside and outside the first pumping unit 104 and have the same cross-sectional size as when configured to pivot in the undeployed state.

[0182]

[0205] As shown in Figure 40, the assembled pump system 100 is still in an unassembled state. However, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 have emerged from their sheaths (not shown) and been delivered to the implantation site. The first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are ready to be assembled together by operating at least one of the drivelines 110 and 130, respectively, as described herein. Furthermore, at this time, the male connector 3900 is in an unfolded state. The male connector 3900 can transition between an unfolded and an unfolded state by being spring-loaded in a way that allows it to overcome toward the unfolded state, such as by pivoting or translating relative to the first pumping unit 104. Alternatively, the male connector 3900 may be made of or coupled to a memory material such as nitinol and / or silicone, which is biased in a way that allows it to overcome toward the unfolded state.

[0183]

[0206] In embodiments in which the assembled pump system 100 is deliverable via catheter, the male connector 3900 is configured to automatically transition from a non-deployed state to a deployed state when the sheath releases the constraints that were applied to the male connector 3900 while it was extended from the sheath for delivery, provided that the male connector 3900 is biased to overcome toward a deployed state. Conversely, the male connector 3900 may also be configured to transition from a deployed state back to a non-deployed state when the assembled pump system 100 is reinserted into the sheath for retrieval.

[0184]

[0207] Alternatively, the drive line 110 of the first pump 102 may include an actuation mechanism connected to the male connector 3900, which can be operated by an operator to move the male connector 3900 between a non-deployed state and an deployed state when the assembled pump system 100 is outside an optional sheath.

[0185]

[0208] As shown in Figure 41, the assembled pump system 100 is delivered to the implantation site and is in an assembled state as a result of the sliding operation of at least one of the drive lines 110 and 130 and the relative movement of at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, as described herein. The male connector 3900 of the first pump 102 engages with and is received in the female connector 3902 of the second pump 122.

[0186]

[0209] In this embodiment, the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 are disclosed as male and female connectors, but it will be understood that the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 may in fact be any other type of physical connector configured to connect cooperatively and / or mechanically, whether or not they are detachably connected. In particular, the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 may include any physical connectors, physical fasteners, and cooperatively mating structures known in the art that can be connected together in a lumen by the operation of one or more drive lines attached to at least one of the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226.

[0187]

[0210] For example, the intended first coupler 116 and second coupler 226 include cam latch connectors, compression latch connectors, slam latch connectors, toggle latch connectors, slide latch connectors, magnetic latch connectors, hasp latch connectors, hook-loop connectors, or fasteners. Furthermore, any of the intended latch connectors among the first coupler 116 and second coupler 226 can be connected to a latch mechanism that allows an operator to connect the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 together and / or disconnect the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 from each other.

[0188]

[0211] Furthermore, for example, the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 may also be configured to have complementary sizes and shapes that enable them to connect physically to each other. The first coupler 116 may be on the outer surface of the first pumping unit 104, and the second coupler 226 may be on the outer surface of the second pumping unit 124. In this case, each of the outer surfaces may be provided with corresponding threads that mechanically engage with each other when the drive lines 110 and 130 of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are rotatably operated.

[0189]

[0212] Figures 42 and 43 show an assembled pump system 100, according to one or more embodiments, which includes a first pump 102 provided with a first coupler 116, which is a first magnetic connector 4200, and a second pump 122 provided with a second coupler 226, which is a second magnetic connector 4202. The first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 are configured to be magnetically connected together for assembling the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 together.

[0190]

[0213] As shown in Figure 42, the prefabricated pump system 100 is in an unassembled state, with the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 housed in a sheath (shown as an environmental object by a dashed line) for delivery to the planting site.

[0191]

[0214] In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 are not configured to transition between a non-deployed state and a deployed state. However, if one or both of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 are of a size and / or shape that prevents them from being housed in a sheath while retaining the ability to magnetically connect the other of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202, then one or both of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 are configured to transition between a non-deployed state and a deployed state. For this purpose, as described for the male connector 3900 and the female connector 3902, at least one of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 may be transitionable between a non-deployed state and a deployed state by being spring-loaded in a way that can overcome toward the deployed state, such as by pivoting or translating relative to the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, respectively. Alternatively, at least one of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 may be made of a memory material such as nitinol and / or silicone, or connected to such a memory material, which is biased to overcome toward an unfolded state.

[0192]

[0215] In embodiments in which the assembled pump system 100 is deliverable via catheter, one or both of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 are configured to automatically transition from a non-deployed state to a deployed state when the sheath releases the constraints that were applied to the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 while they were extended from the sheath for delivery, once they are overcomeably biased toward a deployed state. Conversely, one or both of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 may also be configured to return from a deployed state to a non-deployed state when the assembled pump system 100 is reinserted into the sheath for retrieval.

[0193]

[0216] Alternatively, one or both of the drive lines 110, 130 of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 may include an actuation mechanism connected to each of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202, which can be operated by an operator to move one or both of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 between a non-deployed state and an deployed state when the assembled pump system 100 is outside an optional sheath.

[0194]

[0217] As shown in Figure 43, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 emerge from a sheath (not shown) and are delivered to the implantation site, at which point they are assembled as a result of the sliding operation of at least one of the drivelines 110 and 130 and the relative movement of at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, as described herein. The first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 are magnetically connected together.

[0195]

[0218] In this embodiment, only one of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202 is provided on the corresponding one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, such as one of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124. In this case, the other of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 includes a ferromagnetic material configured to magnetically couple one of the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202.

[0196]

[0219] In this embodiment, the assembled pump system 100 is disclosed to have dedicated first magnetic connectors 4200 and second magnetic connectors 4202, which may be temporary magnets, permanent magnets, and electromagnets, for assembling the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 together, but it will be understood that the first magnetic connectors 4200 and second magnetic connectors 4202 may in practice be the corresponding motor magnets of the first drive unit 108 and the second drive unit 128, respectively.

[0197]

[0220] Figures 44 and 45 show an assembled pump system 100, according to one or more embodiments, which includes a first pump 102 provided with a first coupler 116, which is a first electrical connector 4400, and a second pump 122 provided with a second coupler 226, which is a second electrical connector 4402. The first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 are configured to be electrically connected to each other, whether detachable or not, so that electricity can be transmitted between the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 when assembled. In particular, electricity delivered from a power source (not shown) to the second pump 122 by a drive line 130 can be transmitted to the first pump 102 by connecting the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 together. In this case, the optional drive line 110 of the first pump 102 does not have to include an electrical conductor 112.

[0198]

[0221] Each of the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 includes multiple electrical pins, such as three electrical pins 4404, 4406, and 4408 (shown in Figure 44 for the first pump 102 and in Figure 45 for the second pump 122), as illustrated. A fluid seal (not shown) may be provided on at least one of the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 to provide a fluid-sealed contact between them and prevent blood from coming into contact with the electrical connection pins 4404, 4406, and 4408. A magnet (not shown) may be provided on at least one of the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402, and another magnet (not shown) or a ferromagnetic material (not shown) for magnetically coupling the magnets may be provided on the other of the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402. The magnet can help maintain the electrical connection and / or fluid-sealed contact between the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402.

[0199]

[0222] As shown in Figure 44, the prefabricated pump system 100 is in an unassembled state, with the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 housed in a sheath (shown as an environmental object by dashed lines) for delivery to the planting site.

[0200]

[0223] In this embodiment, as shown in the figure, the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 are not configured to transition between a non-deployed state and a deployed state. However, if one or both of the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 are of a size and / or shape that prevents them from being housed in a sheath while maintaining the ability to electrically connect the other of the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402, then one or both of the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 are configured to transition between a non-deployed state and a deployed state.

[0201]

[0224] Since the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 are generally similar to the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202, including their operating mechanisms, with respect to the overcomeable transition between the undeployed and deployed states, for the sake of brevity, the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 will not be described further in this specification. Where applicable, it will be understood that a similar description applies to the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 and the first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202, with necessary modifications that are understandable to those skilled in the art.

[0202]

[0225] As shown in Figure 45, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 emerge from a sheath (not shown) and are delivered to the implantation site, at which point they are assembled as a result of the sliding operation of at least one of the drive lines 110 and 130 and the relative movement of at least one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, as described herein. The first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 are electrically connected together.

[0203]

[0226] If no other connectors are available, the first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 may be configured not only to electrically connect the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 together, but also to assemble the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 together.

[0204]

[0227] The first electrical connector 4400 and the second electrical connector 4402 include any type of electrical connector configured to cooperate electrically connect with each other, whether or not they are removable electrical connections, which can be electrically connected to each other in a lumen by the operation of one or more drive lines attached to at least one of them. For example, the intended first coupler 116 and second coupler 226 include a male electrical connector and a female electrical connector.

[0205]

[0228] In this embodiment, one or both of the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 are a first physical connector and a second physical connector, such as a male connector 3900 and a female connector 3902, a first magnetic connector 4200 and a second magnetic connector 4202, a first electrical connector 4400 and a second electrical connector 4402, and any combination thereof.

[0206]

[0229] For example, the male connector 3900 may be combined with the first magnetic connector 4200 to form a single connector component, and / or the female connector 3902 may be combined with the second magnetic connector 4202 to form a single connector component. The male connector 3900 may be combined with the first electrical connector 4400 to form a single connector component, and / or the female connector 3902 may be combined with the second electrical connector 4402 to form a single connector component. The first magnetic connector 4200 may be combined with the first electrical connector 4400, and / or the second magnetic connector 4202 may be combined with the second electrical connector 4402. The male connector 3900 may be combined with the first magnetic connector 4200 and the first electrical connector 4400 to form a single connector component, and / or the female connector 3902 may be combined with the second magnetic connector 4202 and the second electrical connector 4402 to form a single connector component. If one of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 is provided with the corresponding first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202, the other pump 102 and the second pump 122 is provided with a ferromagnetic material for magnetically coupling the corresponding first magnetic connector 4200 and the second magnetic connector 4202.

[0207]

[0230] Figures 46 to 48 show an assembled pump system 100, according to one or more embodiments, comprising a first pump 102 having a drive line 110, a second pump 122 having a drive line 130, and a sleeve coupler 4600 configured to slidably receive at least one of the drive lines 110, 130. The sleeve coupler 4600 has an elongated body 4602 defining two longitudinal passages 4604, 4606 (shown by dashed lines as seen through the sleeve coupler 4600), each sized and shaped to slidably receive the corresponding drive line 110 of the first pump 102 and the drive line 130 of the second pump 122. Alternatively, the sleeve coupler 4600 may define a single longitudinal passage (not shown) sized and shaped to slidably receive both the drive lines 110, 130 of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 internally.

[0208]

[0231] As shown in Figure 46, the prefabricated pump system 100 is in an unassembled state, with the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 housed in a sheath (shown as an environmental object by dashed lines) for delivery to the planting site.

[0209]

[0232] As shown in Figure 47, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are delivered to the implantation site and are assembled as a result of the slidable movement of the sleeve receiver 4600 and / or drive lines 110, 130. In particular, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are assembled when the sleeve coupler 4600 is slidably pushed toward the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 by manipulating the portion of the sleeve coupler 4600 located outside its body, thereby bringing the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 closer together, and finally, as shown in Figure 47, the sleeve coupler 4600 abuts or substantially abuts toward the first pump 102 and the second pump 122. Alternatively, or further, the drive lines 110, 130 may be slidably pulled toward the sleeve coupler 4600 in relation to the slidable movement of the sleeve coupler 4600 to assemble the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 together.

[0210]

[0233] In one embodiment, the sleeve coupler 4600 may be fixedly attached to the first pump 102, and the sleeve coupler 4600 may define a single longitudinal passage (not shown) that is sized and shaped to receive the drive line 130 of the second pump 122. The attached sleeve coupler 4600 is slidably pushed, for example, by operating the portion located outside its body toward the second pumping unit 124 and / or by pulling the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 which is received in the single longitudinal passage, so that the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are brought closer to each other, and finally, as described above, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are assembled.

[0211]

[0234] Figure 48 shows an assembled pump system 100 in one or more embodiments, in which a sleeve coupler 4600 is provided with two arms 4800, 4802, each defining a portion of a longitudinal passage 4604, 4606 that slidably receives the corresponding drive lines 110, 130.

[0212]

[0235] When assembled, the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 are positioned substantially parallel to each other, as described herein and shown in Figures 47 and 48, with their proximal ends 118 and 228 facing each other. The first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 may be provided with first couplers 116 and second couplers 226 (not shown), such as first magnetic connectors 4200 and 4202 and / or male connector 3900 and female connector 3902, which are provided at the corresponding proximal ends 118 and 228 of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, respectively. Therefore, when positioned proximal, the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 can play a role in assisting or helping to maintain the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 in a substantially parallel alignment so that their proximal ends 118 and 228 face each other.

[0213]

[0236] Alternatively, the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 may be provided with corresponding first couplers 116 and 226, such as first magnetic connectors 4200 and 4202 and / or male connector 3900 and female connector 3902, which are provided at the corresponding distal ends 120 and 230 of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, respectively. Thus, when positioned distally, the first couplers 116 and 226 can play a role in assisting or helping to maintain the parallel alignment of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, as described above.

[0214]

[0237] The assembled pump system 100, which is equipped with a sleeve coupler 4600, is disassembled by sliding at least one of the drive lines 110 and 130 relative to the sleeve coupler 4600 so that the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 can be separated and moved laterally away from each other.

[0215]

[0238] In this specification, the sleeve coupler 4600 is disclosed having an elongated body 4602 that extends along substantial portions of the drive lines 110, 130, but it will be understood that the sleeve coupler 4600 may be shorter in length, for example, by taking the form of one or more rings that can be configured to slide so as to be positioned in place on at least one of the drive lines 110, 130 by a tool.

[0216]

[0239] Figures 49 and 50 show an assembled pump system 100, according to one or more embodiments, which includes a first pump 102 provided with a drive line 110, a second pump 122 provided with a drive line 130, and a butterfly snare coupler 4900 provided with first snare guide wires 4902 and second snare guide wires 4904 defining corresponding first snare loops 4906 and second snare loops 4908. The butterfly snare coupler 4900 has an elongated body 4910 defining two longitudinal passages 4912, 4914 (shown by dashed lines as seen through the butterfly snare coupler 4900), each of which is sized and shaped to slidably receive the corresponding first snare guide wire 4902 and second snare guide wire 4904. Alternatively, the butterfly snare coupler 4900 may define a single longitudinal passage (not shown) that is sized and shaped to slidably receive both the first snare guide wire 4902 and the second snare guide wire 4904. When received into the corresponding longitudinal passages 4912, 4914, the first snare guide wire 4902 and the second snare guide wire 4904 have their corresponding operable ends positioned at the proximal end 4916 of the butterfly snare coupler 4900, and their first snare loops 4906 and second snare loops 4908 are positioned at the distal end 4918 of the butterfly snare coupler 4900.

[0217]

[0240] As shown in Figure 49, the assembled pump system 100 is in an unassembled state, with the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 housed in a sheath (shown as a surrounding object by dashed lines) for delivery to the implantation site. Each of the drive lines 110 and 130 is received into the corresponding first snare loop 4906 and second snare loop 4908, which are in the open state. In the open state, the drive lines 110 and 130 can slide freely through the first snare loop 4906 and second snare loop 4908, respectively, when the drive lines 110 and 130 and / or the butterfly snare coupler 4900 are slidably operated.

[0218]

[0241] As shown in Figure 50, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 emerge from a sheath (not shown) and are delivered to the implantation site, at which point they are assembled as a result of the transition from the open to the closed state of the first snare loop 4906 and the second snare loop 4908, along with the slidable operation of the drive lines 110, 130 and / or the butterfly snare coupler 4900. In particular, the first pumping unit 102 and the second pumping unit 122 are brought closer to each other by sliding the butterfly snare coupler 4900 toward the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, for example by manipulating the portion located outside its body. Alternatively, or further, the drive lines 110, 130 may be slidably pulled relative to the butterfly snare coupler 4900 with respect to the slidable movement of the butterfly snare coupler 4900, bringing the first pumping unit 102 and the second pumping unit 122 closer to each other. When the butterfly snare coupler 4900 contacts or substantially contacts the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, the operable portions of the first snareing guide wire 4902 and the second snareing guide wire 4904 are pulled, causing the first snareing loop 4906 and the second snareing loop 4908 to move from the open to the closed position, thereby assembling the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 as shown in Figure 50. In the closed state, the drive lines 110 and 130 are no longer able to slide freely through the first snare loop 4906 and the second snare loop 4908, respectively.

[0219]

[0242] In one embodiment, the butterfly snare coupler 4900 may be fixedly attached to the first pump 102, and the butterfly snare coupler 4900 may define a single longitudinal passage (not shown) that is sized and shaped to receive a second snare guide wire 4904, the second snare loop 4908 which slidably receives the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 through its interior. The attached butterfly snare coupler 4900 is slidably pushed, for example, by operating the portion located outside its body toward the second pumping unit 124 and / or by pulling the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 which is received through the second snare guide wire 4904, thereby bringing the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 closer to each other. Next, by moving the second snare loop 4908 from the open state to the closed state, the drive line 130 of the second pump 122 becomes slidably immobile, and finally, as described above, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 are assembled.

[0220]

[0243] Since the butterfly snare coupler 4900 is generally similar to the sleeve coupler 4600 in terms of the relative alignment of the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 in their assembled state, for the sake of brevity, the butterfly snare coupler 4900 will not be described further in this specification. Where applicable, it will be understood that a similar description applies to both the butterfly snare coupler 4900 and the sleeve coupler 4600 for this purpose, with necessary modifications that are understandable to those skilled in the art.

[0221]

[0244] The assembled pump system 100, which is equipped with a butterfly snare coupler 4900, is disassembled by sliding at least one of the drive lines 110, 130 through the corresponding first snare loop 4906 and second snare loop 4908, respectively, so that the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 can be separated and move laterally away from each other.

[0222]

[0245] As intended herein, couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226 may be any structure configured to allow the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 to be moved from an assembled state to an unassembled state and / or from an unassembled state to an assembled state by operation of the corresponding drivelines, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, couplers 114, 134, 116, and 126 may be latch couplers, cam latch couplers, compression latch couplers, slam latch couplers, toggle latch couplers, slide latch couplers, magnetic latch couplers, and / or hasp latch couplers. Alternatively, or further, couplers 114, 134, 116, and 226 may be any two geometric shapes configured to mate cooperatively with one another.

[0223]

[0246] Furthermore, the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 may each include first and second physical connectors, first and second magnetic connectors, first and second electrical connectors, and combinations thereof. The first and second physical connectors are configured to physically engage and / or disengage from each other so that the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be physically connected and / or disconnected from each other. The first and second magnetic connectors are configured to magnetically engage and / or disengage from each other so that the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be magnetically coupled and / or disconnected from each other. The first and second electrical connectors are configured to electrically connect and / or disconnect from each other so that the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 can be electrically coupled and / or disconnected from each other.

[0224]

[0247] For example, the first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 may include first and second physical connectors, and first and second electrical connectors. The first coupler 116 and the second coupler 226 may include first and second magnetic connectors, and first and second electrical connectors. The first and second couplers 116, 226 may include first and second physical connectors, first and second magnetic connectors, and first and second electrical connectors. Alternatively, the first and second physical connectors, first and second magnetic connectors, first and second electrical connectors, and combinations thereof may be provided elsewhere on the first pump 102 and the second pump 122, such as in the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124 and / or drive lines 110, 130, respectively.

[0225]

[0248] As intended herein, drivelines 110, 130 can include, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, guidewires, wires, catheters, cables, snares, and equivalent structures configured or not to transmit power / power, such as power (e.g., electrical wires, electrical cables, and equivalent structures having electrical conductors configured for this purpose) and / or mechanical power (e.g., drive shafts).

[0226]

[0249] As intended herein, the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 may be any pump, including any blood or heart pump, such as an axial flow pump, positive displacement pump, and centrifugal pump. The first impeller 106 and the second impeller 126 may be any impeller, such as an axial flow impeller, peripheral impeller, mixed flow impeller, or radial impeller. Each of the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 may include its respective shroud configured to house the corresponding first impeller 106 and the second impeller 126 inside.

[0227]

[0250] The assembled pump system 100 may include components that require power to operate (which may also be referred to herein as “power-supplyable components” or “power-supplyable medical devices”), namely the first pump 102 and the second pump 122 as disclosed herein, but the assembled pump system 100 may also include components that are not power-supplyable and therefore do not require power to operate (which may also be referred to herein as “non-power-supplyable components” or “non-power-supplyable medical devices”). In the case of non-power-supplyable components, the drivelines 110 and 130 are not configured to supply power to the first pumping unit 104 and the second pumping unit 124, and therefore do not include electrical conductors 112 and 132, respectively. The assembled pump system 100 may include power-supplyable components, non-power-supplyable components, and combinations thereof. In either case, the power-supplyable and non-power-supplyable components are configured to operate at least one of the drive lines or its corresponding structure in order to transition the assembled pump system 100 from an unassembled state to an assembled state and / or from an assembled state to an unassembled state.

[0228]

[0251] Therefore, the assembled pump system 100 can include any component or medical device such as a device that affects blood flow, a balloon pump system, an occluder, an intravascular prosthesis, an implantable pacemaker, an atrial shunt device, a valve replacement system and / or a valve repair system.

[0229]

[0252] Here, with reference to Figures 51 to 54, a method for implanting and removing a prefabricated pump system 100 in a living organism, according to the second and third aspects of this disclosure, will be described.

[0230]

[0253] Figure 51 schematically shows a method 5100 for implanting a prefabricated pump system in an implantation site in a target lumen, according to one or more embodiments. The implantation method 5100 includes, in 5102, delivering the prefabricated pump system to the implantation site. The prefabricated pump system includes a first pump, which may or may not have an optional driveline, and a second pump, which has a driveline attached to and configured to protrude from the first pump. The first and second pumps are configured to be assembled together in the lumen via an inter-pump connection between the first and second pumps. The implantation method 5100 also includes, in 5104, moving the second pump and manipulating the driveline of the second pump to assemble the first and second pumps together in the lumen.

[0231]

[0254] As schematically shown in Figure 52, the assembled pump system 100 can be delivered to and operated at an implantation site via a single access opening SIAO (also referred to herein as “internal access”) according to one or more embodiments. In this case, the first and second pumps are guided to the implantation site through the single access opening SIAO, which, as shown, receives the optional drive lines of the first pump and the drive lines of the second pump through its interior.

[0232]

[0255] Delivering the prefabricated pump system may include obtaining a single access opening for delivering the first and second pumps to the implantation site, for example, by using the Seldinger technique in 5106.

[0233]

[0256] Delivering a prefabricated pump system may further include, in 5108, introducing an optional sheath containing at least partially first and second pumps into the lumen through a single access opening SIAO; in 5110, advancing the optional sheath within the lumen to its implantation site; in 5112, withdrawing (or facilitating) the first and second pumps from the optional sheath at the implantation site; and in 5114, removing the optional sheath from the lumen through the single access opening SIAO.

[0234]

[0257] Delivering the assembled pump system may further include closing a single access opening on the drive line of the second pump in 5116.

[0235]

[0258] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include, in 5118, pulling and / or pushing the drive line of the second pump through the single access opening SIAO, as described herein, so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit move closer to each other in order to assemble the first and second pumps together in the lumen.

[0236]

[0259] In embodiments in which the drive line is provided for the first pump, the implantation method 5100 may further include, in 5120, pulling and / or pushing the drive line of the first pump through a single access opening SIAO, as described herein, so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit are brought closer to each other in order to assemble the first pump and the second pump together in a lumen.

[0237]

[0260] Operating the drive lines of the first and second pumps may include operating portions of the drive lines of the first and second pumps that are located outside the body relative to the single access opening (SIAO). Alternatively, portions of the drive lines of the first and second pumps that are located inside the body (but not in the lumen) relative to the single access opening (SIAO) may be operated. Yet another method may be operating portions of the drive lines of the first and second pumps that are located in the lumen relative to the single access opening (SIAO).

[0238]

[0261] The planting method 5100 may further include, in 5122, transmitting electricity to the second pump via the drive line of the second pump, which is located through a single access opening SIAO, in order to operate the second pump.

[0239]

[0262] Operating the drive line of the second pump through a single access opening SIAO may further include, in 5124, electrically connecting the first pump and the second pump together to transmit electricity between the first pump and the second pump in order to operate the first pump when the first pump and the second pump are assembled together.

[0240]

[0263] In embodiments where the drive line is provided for the first pump, the planting method 5100 may further include transmitting electricity to the first pump via the drive line of the first pump, which is located through a single access opening SIAO, in order to operate the first pump.

[0241]

[0264] As schematically shown in Figure 53, according to one or more embodiments, the assembled pump system can be delivered to an implantation site and operated through a first access opening IAO1 (also referred to herein as the “first internal access”) and a second access opening IAO2 (also referred to herein as the “second internal access”). In this case, the first pump is guided to the implantation site through the first access opening IAO1, and the second pump is guided to the implantation site through the second access opening IAO2. As shown, the first access opening IAO1 accepts an optional drive line for the first pump through its interior, and the second access opening IAO2 accepts a drive line for the second pump through its interior. The first access opening IAO1 and the second access opening IAO2 may be located in the same lumen or in different lumen. For example, the first access opening IAO1 can provide intraluminal access to the femoral vessel or femoral artery, and the second access opening IAO2 can provide intraluminal access to the subclavian / axillary vessel or subclavian / axillary artery.

[0242]

[0265] Delivering the prefabricated pump system may include, in 5128, obtaining a first access opening IAO1 and a second access opening AIO2 for delivering the corresponding first and second pumps to the implantation site. For example, the first access opening IAO1 and the second access opening IAO2 may be obtained using the Seldinger technique.

[0243]

[0266] Delivering an assembled pump system may further include, in 5130, introducing optional first and second sheaths, each partially housing a first and second pump, into a lumen through corresponding first and second access openings IAO1 and IAO2; in 5132, advancing the optional first and second sheaths into the lumen to their implantation site; in 5134, withdrawing the first and second pumps from the optional first and second sheaths at the implantation site; in 5136, removing the optional first and second sheaths from the lumen through corresponding first and second access openings IAO1 and IAO2; and in 5138, closing the first and second access openings IAO1 and IAO2.

[0244]

[0267] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include, in 5140, pulling and / or pushing the drive line of the second pump through the second access opening IAO2, as described herein, so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit move closer to each other in order to assemble the first pump and the second pump together in the lumen.

[0245]

[0268] In embodiments in which the drive line is provided for the first pump, the implantation method 5100 may further include, in 5142, pulling and / or pushing the drive line of the first pump through the first access opening IAO1, as described herein, so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit move closer to each other in order to assemble the first pump and the second pump together in a lumen.

[0246]

[0269] Operating the drive lines of the first pump and the second pump respectively can include operating a part of the drive lines of the first pump and the second pump respectively, which are disposed outside the body with respect to the corresponding first access opening AIO1 and second access opening AIO2. As an alternative, a part of the drive lines of the first pump and the second pump respectively, which are disposed inside the body (but not in the lumen) with respect to the corresponding first access opening AIO1 and second access opening AIO2, may be operated. As yet another alternative, a part of the drive lines of the first pump and the second pump respectively, which are disposed in the lumen with respect to the corresponding first access opening AIO1 and second access opening AIO2, may be operated.

[0247]

[0270] The implanting method 5100 may further include, at 5144, transmitting electricity to the second pump via the drive line of the second pump disposed through the second access opening IAO2 to operate the second pump.

[0248]

[0271] Operating the drive line of the second pump includes, at 5146, electrically connecting the first pump and the second pump together to transmit electricity between the first pump and the second pump for operating them when assembled together.

[0249]

[0272] The implanting method 5100 may further include, at 5148, transmitting electricity to the first pump via the drive line of the first pump disposed through the first access opening IAO1 to operate the first pump.

[0250]

[0273] Operating the drive lines of the first and second pumps respectively through the corresponding first access opening IAO1 and second access opening AIO2 may further include electrically connecting the first pump and the second pump together to transmit electricity between the first pump and the second pump for operating them when the first pump and the second pump are assembled together.

[0251]

[0274] In an embodiment where the drive line is provided to the first pump, the implanting method 5100 can further include transmitting electricity to the first pump and the second pump through their respective drive lines disposed through the corresponding first access opening IAO1 and second access opening AIO2 to operate the first pump and the second pump.

[0252]

[0275] Alternatively, each of the first pump and the second pump can be operated by their respective drive shafts provided to the drive line and disposed through a single access opening SIAO or the first access opening IAO1 and / or the second access opening AIO2. The drive shafts are connected to their respective motors and configured to operate the first pump and / or the second pump. Cooling fluid may be provided to the drive line to maintain an appropriate operating temperature of the drive line.

[0253]

[0276] As yet another alternative, the assembled pump system can deliver the drive lines of the first pump and the second pump non-catheterically by pulling or pushing them along one or more lumens through a single access opening or the first access opening IAO1 and / or the second access opening AIO2. In particular, the first pump and the second pump can be pushed by using guide wires of various stiffnesses or structural rigidities as described above. Alternatively, or additionally, the first pump and the second pump can be pushed or pulled while advancing while rotating on the guide wire as also described above.

[0254]

[0277] The implanting method 5100 can further include, at 5150, fixing the assembled pump system to the implant site.

[0255]

[0278] Figure 54 schematically shows a method 5400 for removing an assembled pump system, including a first pump and a second pump, from an implantation site in a target lumen, according to one or more embodiments. The removal method 5400 includes, in 5402, moving the second pump and manipulating the drive line of the second pump to separate the second pump in the lumen from the first pump, which is connected to the second pump via an inter-pump coupling. The assembled pump system includes a first pump, which may or may not have an optional drive line, and a second pump, which has a drive line attached to and configured to protrude from the first pump. The removal method 5400 also includes, in 5404, recovering the assembled pump system in an unassembled state from the implantation site.

[0256]

[0279] Referring again to Figure 52, the prefabricated pump system can be implanted in the implantation site and operated through a single access opening (SIAO). In this case, the first and second pumps are guided to the implantation site through the single access opening (SIAO), which, as shown, accepts the optional drive lines of the first pump and the second pump through its interior.

[0257]

[0280] Recovery of the prefabricated pump system may include obtaining a single access opening SIAO for recovering the first and second pumps from the implantation site, such as by using Seldinger technology, as described in 5406.

[0258]

[0281] Retrieving the prefabricated pump system may further include, in 5408, introducing an optional sheath into the lumen through a single access opening SIAO; in 5410, advancing the optional sheath into the lumen to its implantation site; in 5412, inserting the first and second pumps into the sheath; in 5414, releasing the prefabricated pump system from the implantation site; in 5416, removing the optional sheath, which at least partially houses the first and second pumps, from the lumen through the single access opening SIAO; and in 5118, closing the single access opening SIAO.

[0259]

[0282] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include, as described herein, pulling and / or pushing the drive line of the second pump through a single access opening SIAO, so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit move away from each other in order to separate the first pump and the second pump from each other in the lumen.

[0260]

[0283] In embodiments in which the drive line is provided for the first pump, the removal method 5400 may further include, in 5422, pulling and / or pushing the drive line of the first pump through a single access opening SIAO, as described herein, so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit move away from each other in order to separate the first pump and the second pump from each other in the lumen.

[0261]

[0284] Operating the drive lines of the first and second pumps may include operating portions of the drive lines of the first and second pumps that are located outside the body relative to the single access opening (SIAO). Alternatively, portions of the drive lines of the first and second pumps that are located inside the body (but not in the lumen) relative to the single access opening (SIAO) may be operated. Yet another method may be operating portions of the drive lines of the first and second pumps that are located in the lumen relative to the single access opening (SIAO).

[0262]

[0285] The removal method 5400 may further include, in 5424, stopping the transmission of electricity to the second pump via the drive line of the second pump located through a single access opening SIAO.

[0263]

[0286] Operating the drive line of the second pump through a single access opening SIAO may further include electrically disconnecting the first and second pumps from each other in order to stop the transmission of electricity between them in 5426.

[0264]

[0287] In embodiments in which the drive line is provided for the first pump, the removal method 5400 may further include, in 5428, stopping the transmission of electricity to the first pump via the drive line of the first pump located through a single access opening SIAO.

[0265]

[0288] Referring again to Figure 53, the modular pump system can be implanted at the implantation site and operated through the first access opening IAO1 and the second access opening IAO2. In this case, the first pump is guided to the implantation site through the first access opening IAO1, and the second pump is guided to the implantation site through the second access opening IAO2. As shown, the first access opening IAO1 accepts the optional drive line of the first pump through its interior, and the second access opening IAO2 accepts the drive line of the second pump through its interior. The first access opening IAO and the second access opening IAO2 may be located in the same lumen or in different lumen. For example, the first access opening IAO1 may provide intraluminal access to the femoral vessel or femoral artery, and the second access opening IAO2 may provide intraluminal access to the subclavian / axillary vessel or subclavian / axillary artery.

[0266]

[0289] Recovery of the assembled pump system may include, in 5430, obtaining a first access opening IAO1 and a second access opening AIO2 for recovering the corresponding first and second pumps from the implantation site. For example, the first access opening IAO1 and the second access opening IAO2 can be obtained using the Seldinger technique.

[0267]

[0290] Retrieving the assembled pump system may further include, in 5432, introducing optional first and second sheaths into the lumen through corresponding first access openings IAO1 and IAO2; in 5434, advancing the optional first and second sheaths to their implantation site; in 5436, inserting the first and second pumps into the optional first and second sheaths, respectively; in 5438, removing the optional first and second sheaths from the lumen through corresponding first access openings IAO1 and IAO2; and in 5440, closing the first access openings IAO1 and IAO2.

[0268]

[0291] Operating the drive line of the second pump may include, as described herein, pulling and / or pushing the drive line of the second pump through the second access opening IAO2, so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit move away from each other in order to separate the first pump and the second pump from each other in the lumen.

[0269]

[0292] In embodiments in which the drive line is provided for the first pump, the removal method 5400 may further include, in 5444, pulling and / or pushing the drive line of the first pump through the first access opening IAO1, as described herein, so that the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit move away from each other in order to separate the first pump and the second pump from each other in the lumen.

[0270]

[0293] Operating the drive lines of the first and second pumps may include operating portions of the drive lines of the first and second pumps that are located outside the body relative to the corresponding first access opening AIO1 and second access opening AIO2 in the MMM16. Alternatively, portions of the drive lines of the first and second pumps that are located inside the body (but not in the lumen) relative to the corresponding first access opening AIO1 and second access opening AIO2 may be operated. Further alternatively, portions of the drive lines of the first and second pumps that are located inside the lumen relative to the corresponding first access opening AIO1 and second access opening AIO2 may be operated.

[0271]

[0294] The removal method 5400 further includes, in 5446, stopping the transmission of electricity to the second pump via its drive line located through the second access opening IAO2 in order to stop the operation of the second pump.

[0272]

[0295] Operating the drive line of the second pump includes electrically disconnecting the first pump and the second pump from each other in order to stop the transmission of electricity between them when they are separated from each other.

[0273]

[0296] The removal method 5400 further includes, in 5550, stopping the transmission of electricity to the first pump via its drive line located through the first access opening IAO1 in order to stop the operation of the first pump.

Claims

1. A prefabricated pump system, First pump and A second pump including a drive line, wherein the second pump is configured to assemble with the first pump in a lumen via an inter-pump connection between the second pump and the first pump, and the drive line is further configured to move the second pump to assemble the second pump and the first pump together in a lumen, A system that includes these features.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first pump comprises a first pumping unit, the second pump comprises a second pumping unit, and the connection between the pumps includes a connection between the first pumping unit and the second pumping unit.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first pump comprises a pumping unit, and the inter-pump connection includes a unit-drive line connection between the pumping unit of the first pump and the drive line of the second pump.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first pump comprises a drive line.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the inter-pump connection includes an inter-driveline connection between the driveline of the first pump and the driveline of the second pump.

6. The system according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the drive line of the first pump is configured to be detachably attached to the first pump.

7. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the drive line of the first pump is configured to be screwed to the first pump.

8. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the drive line of the first pump is configured to snare the first pump.

9. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the drive line of the first pump comprises an electrical conductor configured to transmit electricity from a power source to the first pump in order to operate the first pump.

10. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the drive line of the first pump is configured to move the first pump slidably in order to assemble the first pump and the second pump together in a lumen.

11. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the drive line of the first pump is configured to be operated from outside the lumen to move the first pump in order to assemble the first pump and the second pump together in the lumen.

12. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 11, further comprising a sleeve coupler attached to the drive line of the first pump and configured to slidably receive the drive line of the second pump inside.

13. The system according to any one of claims 4 to 11, further comprising a sleeve coupler configured to slidably receive the drive line of the first pump and the second drive line of the second pump inside.

14. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising a coupler associated with one of the first pump and the second pump, wherein the coupler is configured to slidably receive the other of the first pump and the second pump in order to assemble the first pump and the second pump together in a lumen.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein the coupler includes a pump receiving coupler that defines an opening of a size and shape that allows the other of the first pump and the second pump to be received inside.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the coupler is a latching coupler.

17. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a first physical connector associated with the first pump and a second physical connector associated with the second pump, wherein the first physical connector and the second physical connector are configured to connect together for assembling the first pump and the second pump together in a lumen.

18. The system according to claim 17, wherein the first physical connector includes one of a male connector and a female connector, and the second physical connector includes the other of the male connector and the female connector.

19. The system according to claim 17, wherein the first physical connector is a first latch connector and the second physical connector is a second latch connector.

20. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, further comprising a first magnetic connector associated with the first pump and a second magnetic connector associated with the second pump, wherein the first magnetic connector and the second magnetic connector are configured to be magnetically coupled together for assembling the first pump and the second pump together in a lumen.

21. The system according to claim 20, wherein the first magnetic connector includes a first drive unit magnet, and the second magnetic connector includes a second drive unit magnet.

22. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 21, further comprising a first electrical connector associated with the first pump and a second electrical connector associated with the second pump, wherein the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are configured to be electrically connected together to electrically connect the first pump and the second pump together.

23. The system according to claim 22, wherein at least one of the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector comprises a fluid seal configured to provide fluid-sealed contact when an electrical connection is made between them.

24. The system according to any one of claims 15 to 23, wherein the coupler has a non-deployed state for transcatheter delivery of at least one of the first pump and the second pump within a lumen, and a deployed state for assembling the second pump and the first pump together within a lumen.

25. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the drive line of the second pump is configured to be detachably attached to the second pump.

26. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the drive line of the second pump is configured to be screwed to the second pump.

27. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the drive line of the second pump is configured to snare the second pump.

28. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the drive line of the second pump comprises an electrical conductor configured to transmit electricity from a power source to the second pump in order to operate the second pump.

29. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the drive line of the second pump is configured to allow the second pump to move slidably in order to assemble the second pump and the first pump together in a lumen.

30. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the drive line of the second pump is configured to be operated from outside the lumen to move the second pump in order to assemble the second pump and the first pump together in the lumen.

31. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 30, further comprising an anchor attached to at least one of the first pump and the second pump, wherein the anchor is configured to engage with the wall of a lumen to fix the first pump and the second pump in a lumen.

32. The system according to claim 31, wherein the anchor is removably attached to at least one of the first pump and the second pump.

33. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 32, wherein each of the first pump and the second pump is an intravascular pump.

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