Controversies and Challenges in the Management of ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock
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Updated: Mar 1, 2026

Utilizing Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Devices in Acute Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock
Published on: June 12, 2021
Byung-Soo Ko1, Stavros G Drakos1, Frederick G P Welt1
1Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 North 1900 East, Room 4A100, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
Insights
Cardiogenic shock (CS) after myocardial infarction is fatal, but new treatments and trials offer hope. Research is ongoing to improve patient selection and therapies for this critical condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- ST-elevation myocardial infarction prognosis has improved.
- Cardiogenic shock (CS) remains a leading cause of mortality.
- Optimal therapies for CS are still debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current challenges and advancements in treating cardiogenic shock.
- To highlight ongoing research and potential future treatments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current treatment strategies and clinical trials.
- Discussion of challenges in clinical trial enrollment for critically ill patients.
Main Results:
- Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) and revascularization strategies are under investigation.
- Informed consent processes pose difficulties for CS patients requiring immediate intervention.
Conclusions:
- Despite a grim prognosis, emerging treatments and ongoing trials may improve outcomes for CS patients.
- Further research is needed to refine patient selection and therapeutic approaches.
Abstract:
The prognosis in ST-elevation myocardial infarction has improved with coronary care units, revascularization, and anticoagulant strategies; however, cardiogenic shock (CS) remains a highly fatal condition. Controversies remain about optimal pharmacologic therapies, revascularization strategies, the role of mechanical circulatory support (MCS), and evidence-based patient selection. The current informed consent paradigm for clinical trials creates challenges testing treatments in CS patients, who are too ill to consent and require immediate treatment. Several trials are underway comparing revascularization strategies and MCS options. Although the prognosis is grim, careful, new and existing treatments could change the course of this condition in the coming years.
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