A temporary cardiac-assist device (110) is disclosed. The device (110) includesa pump assembly (118) that is deployed in the ascending aorta (222) or the heart.A torque transmission line (116) couples the pump assembly (118) to an externalmotor for driving impeller blades within the pump assembly. The pump assembly(118) expands in size at its destination site for operation. In operation, neitherthe torque transmission line (116) nor elements that, support the impeller blades(570) are under axial forces.
