Heart assist devices, systems and methods

A heart assist system comprising:

• a) an aortic compression device configured to be positioned adjacent to the ascending aorta of a patient, wherein the aortic compression device is curved along its length so as to substantially replicate the curve of the ascending aorta adjacent to the aortic compression device, the aortic compression device comprising:
• (i) a flexible inflatable cuff;
• and
• (ii) a flexible, substantially inelastic sheath configured to extend around the cuff and at least assist in retaining the cuff adjacent to the aorta;
• b) a fluid reservoir;
• and
• c) a pump in fluid communication with the aortic compression device and the fluid reservoir, wherein the pump is configured to pump a fluid from the fluid reservoir to the aortic compression device so as to actuate the aortic compression device.