Update on Mechanical Circulatory Support

Abstract

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices provide temporary or intermediate- to long-term support for acute cardiopulmonary support. In the last 20 to 30 years, tremendous growth in MCS device usage has been seen. These devices offer support for isolated respiratory failure, isolated cardiac failure, or both. Initiation of MCS devices requires the input from multidisciplinary teams using patient factors and institutional resources to guide decision making, along with a planned "exit strategy" for bridge to decision, bridge to transplant, bridge to recovery, or as destination therapy. Important considerations for MCS use include patient selection, cannulation/insertion strategies, and complications of each device.

Keywords: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; Impella; Intra-aortic balloon pump; Left ventricular assist device; Mechanical circulatory devices; Venoarterial extracorporeal life support; Venovenous extracorporeal life support.