Functionalisation of the LVAD Sutureless Inflow Cannula for Enhanced Tissue Integration

Heart failure remains a leading cause of death worldwide, and current mechanical support options are often invasive and complex. This thesis presents the design, development, and in vivo evaluation of a novel sutureless inflow cannula aimed at simplifying mechanical heart implantation and improving patient outcomes. Through iterative engineering design, materials selection, surface functionalisation, and preclinical testing in porcine models, the device was refined for deployment in a beating heart without cardiopulmonary bypass. The findings demonstrate the feasibility of less invasive cardiac surgery, and support the development of next-generation cardiovascular biomaterials and devices for patients with advanced heart failure.