A Review of percutaneous mechanical support devices and strategies

The technology available to offer acute hemodynamic support to critically ill patients has evolved exponentially in recent years. As our experience grows, and our armamentarium of mechanical therapies expands, devices are becoming increasingly important to providing acute hemodynamic support. This review article will describe approaches to providing acute support and a concise review of the percutaneous mechanical support devices currently available. In an effort to define how and when to use them in acute situations, we will also describe some advantages and disadvantages of each platform, and highlight the primary limitations in defining safety and efficacy.