Molded double lumen silicone skin button for drivelines to an artificial heart

A one-piece transfer molded double skin button allows two drivelines to pass through the skin and reduces the penetration area by 44%. The use of elastomer HP-100 (Dow Corning) without a reinforcing mesh allows some additional features not possible with hand lay-up techniques. These include "S" curved passages for the lines, double sealing rings within the passages, a sleeve, and a flange, all as one piece of silicone. The sealing rings prevent the leakage of air, create a pocket for a glue seal, and anchor the air line. The sleeve prevents the air lines from putting necrosis-causing pressure on the skin. The flange keeps the button from being pulled out, is covered with Dacron velour, and is a barrier against infection. The shape of the device allows the air lines to be tunneled under the skin and exited parallel to the skin.