The object
Thorsten Siess invented the prototype for the Impella catheter-based heart pump, placing a miniature electric motor and turbine-like pump in the catheter rather than relying on an external motor and drive cable. Johnson & Johnson reports that the platform has treated more than 400,000 people, while Abiomed lists Siess in current leadership.
What Thorsten did
Invented the prototype for the Impella miniature intravascular heart pump and co-founded the company that developed it.
Why it matters
Impella made a catheter-delivered mechanical circulatory-support pump a durable clinical platform, with more than 400,000 people treated by 2024.
Living-status check
Abiomed's current leadership page lists Siess, and a 2024 Johnson & Johnson account documents his ongoing role in the platform's development.