Thoratec HeartMate III, Instructions For Use Manual, Page: 245 / 458

Surgical Procedures 5
HeartMate III Left Ventricular Assist System Instructions for Use 5-37
4. Complete the following steps:
a. Target the placement of the sutures on the black circumferential line marked on the
Apical Cuff ( Figure 5.28 ).
This will help ensure that a hemostatic connection between the Apical Cuff and the
heart tissue, for which uninterrupted opposition between the myocardial tissue and the
Apical Cuff felt is required.
b. Approximately one and a half centimeters from the core, suture the sewing ring cuff with
at least 12 pledgeted horizontal mattress 2–0 braided sutures almost full thickness.
c. Apply corresponding sutures to the felt sewing cuff.
Figure 5.28 Placement of Sutures Between the Metal Ring and the Circumferential Line on the Apical Cuff
5. Ensure that the sutures do not approximate or traverse any of the metallic surfaces.
CAUTION !
When placing sutures into the myocardium, ensure they will not be cut by the
Coring Knife.