Pressure-induced modulation systems

Abstract

A system for modulating blood flow includes a first inflation device sized for placement at least partially within a blood vessel, such as an inferior vena cava, a superior vena cava, or a hepatic vein of a heart. The first inflation device expands and contracts in a cyclic manner. A tube extends from the first inflation device to a second inflation device, which may be placed within a blood vessel or within a chamber of the heart. The tube allows a liquid or gas to pass between the first and second inflation devices. The system may be used to alter the flow rate and/or timing of blood flow. In alternative embodiments, stents may be used in addition to, or in place of, the inflation devices. In some embodiments, a power source may be used with the system to more precisely modulate the blood flow.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.