Mechanical Circulatory Support for Acute Heart Failure Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock

Acute heart failure is a potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to cardiogenic shock, which is associated with hypotension and organ failure. Although there have been many studies on the treatment for cardiogenic shock, early mortality remains high at 40–50%. No new medicines for cardiogenic shock have been developed. Recently, there has been a gradual decline in the use of the intra-aortic balloon pump mainly due to a lack of adequate hemodynamic support. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and the percutaneous ventricular assist device have become more widely used in recent years. A thorough understanding of the mechanisms of such mechanical support devices and their hemodynamic effects, components of the devices, implantation technique, management, criteria for indications or contraindications of use, and clinical outcomes as well as multidisciplinary decision making may improve the outcomes in patients experiencing cardiogenic shock.