[LVAS], 1985-1991

This series documents the administrative decisions shaping the direction of the Artificial Heart Program (AHP) -- later known as the Devices and Technology Branch (DTB) -- and the research projects under its jurisdiction. Watson's career as Chief of the DTB also can be traced through these files. The series contains material from throughout Watson's association with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) as well as material created prior to his arrival. It is divided into three sub-series: AHP Management, Research Areas, and Reports. Researchers interested in the program's overall history and management should refer to the first sub-series: it includes correspondence and people files, legal documents concerning patents and lawsuits, manuals and procedural guidelines, congressional hearing files, financial summaries, and records of international cardiovascular research activities. The second sub-series focuses more on managing some of the research activities within the AHP: radioisotope power sources, ventricular assist devices, biomaterials, total artificial hearts, and bioengineering. Information on the testing and evaluation facilities established for assessing the capabilities of circulatory support devices also can be found here. Folders documenting individual research contracts are located in Series 2: Research Contracts. The third sub-series consists of reports on the AHP's status and research objectives (including the annual director reports) and submissions to the Cardiology Advisory Committee. Of special interest are the evaluative reports prepared at the AHP's inception to define the program's scope, goals, and implementation plan. Most materials in this series are arranged chronologically by date; the people files in the first sub-series are arranged alphabetically by last name.