Background: Despite recent advances in the management of heart failure, cardiogenic shock remains a challenging and devastating condition with significant morbidity and mortality.
Methods: We review currently available percutaneous mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices and address each device's characteristics, mechanism of action, specific clinical indications, and contraindications.
Results: Four types of percutaneous MCS devices are currently available: the intraaortic balloon pump (IABP), Impella devices, the TandemHeart, and extracorporal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). IABPs provide less hemodynamic support compared to the Impella, TandemHeart, and ECMO devices. However, because of its ease of placement and relatively small access catheter size, the IABP remains the most commonly used MCS device for the treatment of cardiogenic shock. When full cardiopulmonary support is needed, ECMO is the best option.
Conclusion: Temporary MCS has emerged as a therapeutic option in the management of patients with acute cardiogenic shock. However, clinician familiarity with the indications, limitations, and benefits of individual MCS devices and enhanced patient comfort with the placement are paramount to improve patient outcomes.
Keywords: Heart-assist devices; intra-aortic balloon pumping; shock–cardiogenic.