SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AN INTRA-AORTIC PERISTALSIS HEART ASSIST PUMP

Some embodiments of the disclosure are directed to a novel system for pumping liquid such as blood without damaging cells. In some embodiments, the system includes one or more inflatable elements such as balloons which force liquid from a heart assist pump. In some embodiments, one or more pumping elements are configured to directionally inflate. In some embodiments, the heart assist pump includes a reduced cross-section between two pumping elements. In some embodiments, the reduced cross-section is configured to enable the heart assist pump to be seated in the heart using the aortic valve. In some embodiments, the reduced cross-section gives the heart assist pump and hourglass shape, which allows a greater volume of fluid to be pumped through the aortic valve. In some embodiments, a controller independently controls fluid pumping elements on either side of the reduced cross-section.