FIGURE 1. A wearable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and its components. The inflow cannula is inserted into the apex of the left ventricle, and the outflow cannula is anastomosed to the ascending aorta. Blood returns from the lungs to the left side of the heart and exits through the left ventricular apex and across an inflow valve into the prosthetic pumping chamber. Blood is then actively pumped through an outflow valve into the ascending aorta. The pumping chamber is placed within the abdominal wall or peritoneal cavity. One percutaneous line carries the electrical cable and air vent to the battery packs and electronic controls, which are worn on a shoulder holster or belt.