Percutaneous biventricular Impella support in therapy-refractory cardiogenic shock

Abstract

Introduction: Percutaneous mechanical circulatory support systems have increasingly been adopted as a bail out strategy in patients with cardiogenic shock. Since studies showed mostly mixed results, however, the use of support systems remains a case by case decision.

Case: Here, we report on a case of therapy-refractory cardiogenic shock due to acute myocardial infarction treated with percutaneous right and left ventricular assist devices (Impella RP and CP).

Conclusion: Due to myocardial stunning, even patients with fulminant cardiogenic shock have the potential for full recovery. In the present case, we demonstrate the feasibility of biventricular Impella support in therapy-refractory cardiogenic shock facilitating bridge to recovery.

Keywords: Cardiogenic shock; Impella; Mechanical circulatory support; Myocardial infarction.