Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026

Utilizing Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Devices in Acute Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock
Published on: June 12, 2021
Percutaneous Hemodynamic Support in PCI
1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA.
Insights
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) increasingly involves high-risk patients. Hemodynamic support devices like IABP, TandemHeart, and Impella aid these complex cases, with ongoing trials refining their use.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Interventional Cardiology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is increasingly performed in hemodynamically unstable, high-risk patients.
- Hemodynamic support is crucial for select patients with acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock.
- The application of hemodynamic support has expanded to high-risk elective PCI, including left main and multivessel disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current landscape of percutaneous hemodynamic support devices used in complex PCI.
- To discuss the advantages and disadvantages of available devices, including intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), TandemHeart, and Impella.
- To highlight the importance of understanding device roles in various pathophysiologic conditions for optimizing patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature and clinical practice regarding hemodynamic support in PCI.
- Comparison of commonly used devices: intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), TandemHeart, and Impella.
- Discussion of patient selection criteria and device-specific benefits and limitations.
Main Results:
- Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), TandemHeart, and Impella are the primary percutaneous hemodynamic support devices in the US.
- Each device presents unique advantages and disadvantages influencing patient outcomes.
- Recent studies challenge the necessity of certain devices in specific scenarios, necessitating further research.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the specific roles and limitations of hemodynamic support devices is essential for optimal patient selection and outcomes in high-risk PCI.
- Ongoing clinical trials are expected to provide further clarity on the comparative efficacy of different devices.
- Advancements in device technology and application are anticipated to improve outcomes for critically ill patients undergoing complex PCI.
Opinion Statement:
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures are attempted with increasingly frequency in hemodynamically unstable, high-risk, and complex patients. Hemodynamic support can be advantageous in select patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock. The need for hemodynamic support has recently shifted from patients with hemodynamic collapse to support of patients during high-risk complex PCI procedures during elective cases such as left main disease, multivessel disease, or low-flow heart failure. Currently, the three most common types of percutaneous hemodynamic support devices available in the United States are the intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) and the left ventricular assist devices TandemHeart and Impella. Each of these devices has its advantages and disadvantages, and an understanding of the role each plays in various pathophysiologic conditions is necessary, as this will assist the practitioner in making the correct decision as to which device will optimize patient outcomes. Recent studies have called into question the need for certain devices in specific situations. However, ongoing clinical trials will provide further insight into the comparative advantages and disadvantages of each and whether one or more is beneficial over another in reducing cardiovascular events and mortality. With continued refinements in device technology, technique, and application, it is anticipated that percutaneous device-based procedures will continue to improve patient outcomes in the most critically ill and highest-risk patients.
Related Concept Videos
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care
Cardiac Catheterization II: Right Heart Catheterization

