Linear muscle power for cardiac support: Current progress and future directions

A biomechanical implant has been developed to convert linear muscle power into hydraulic energy for the purpose of driving a circulatory support device. This implant—called a muscle energy converter or MEC—is designed to attach to the humeral insertion of the latissimus dorsi (LD) muscle so that stimulated contractions produce hydraulic power. The principle advantage of this approach over current methods is that it eliminates the need for external power sources and provides a reliable, low-cost, self-sustaining source of energy without immune compromise or loss of patient autonomy. This article summarizes the rationale for using muscle in a linear configuration, reviews the current status of device development, and examines three possible mechanisms by which to assist the failing heart using in situ skeletal muscle.