Heart Failure and the Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)

Location, Size and Shape of the Heart
  • Located in mediastinum
  • Lying in front of spinal column, behind sternum, and between lungs
  • 2/3 lies to left of midline
    • Thing "pledge of allegiance" where your hand covers your heart
  • Apex (bottom) lies just above diaphragm
  • Base (top) lies at level of the third rib
  • Size of owner’s closed fist
    • 250-300 grams