Future Directions for Percutaneous Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices

Outcomes of patients in cardiogenic shock remain high, but the development of novel percutaneous mechanical circulatory support devices offers additional therapeutic options. Hand in hand with innovations in device technology, however, must also come development of integrated circulatory support networks focusing on rapid assessment of patients, multidisciplinary discussion, and timely therapeutic intervention. This article summarizes some of the recent developments in device technology; potential procedures for patient risk stratification, device selection, and response to therapy; management of vascular access to reduce insertion point complications; and some of the expanding potential roles of percutaneous mechanical circulatory support devices.