Percutaneous ventricular assist device support during off-pump surgical coronary revascularization

Intraaortic balloon pump counterpulsation has been used for mechanical circulatory support in cardiogenic shock patients, but percutaneous left ventricular assist devices can provide superior circulatory support in the same group of patients. We describe the case of a patient in cardiogenic shock after a myocardial infarction. A percutaneous ventricular assist device was used to provide immediate active hemodynamic support, and, because the patient's condition necessitated surgical revascularization, percutaneous left ventricular assist device support was continued during off-pump coronary artery bypass.