Berlin Heart: INCOR cardiac support system

Hybrid cable from LEONI connects implant and power supply unit

INCOR is a so-called left cardiac support system that supports the pumping function of the left ventricle (chamber of the heart) which is responsible for the body’s circulation. As well as the actual blood pump, which is placed next to the heart, the system also includes a small external unit and two batteries, which offer the patient almost unrestricted freedom of movement.

The pump is connected to the control unit by means of a highly complex, miniaturised hybrid cable from LEONI. Despite their small external diameter of just 7.14 millimetres, the cables tick every box in terms of the precision and reliability required for use in and on the human body. For example, kink tests of ± 90° must be withstood just as effectively as all other mechanical stresses. With this in mind, LEONI sheaths the cables in a special supporting mesh that provides both anti-kink protection and strain relief. At the customer’s facility, the cable is then completely enclosed in a silicon tube and is covered with a layer of polyester velour at the point of entry, enabling the cable to penetrate the skin in safety.

For the purposes of quality assurance, LEONI performs checks such as dielectric tests and four-terminal measurements prior to delivery.

In addition, LEONI also supplies the cables for connecting the external system components (batteries, power supply unit, laptop) to the control unit.

The framework agreement for the hybrid wiring of the INCOR system means that Berlin Heart has now placed its long-standing successful partnership with LEONI on an even broader base.