Imaging of Cardiac Support Devices

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Intensive care unit (ICU) patients often require mechanical circulatory support devices.
• These devices are crucial for managing cardiogenic shock and improving cardiac function.
• Routine imaging is essential for monitoring device placement and detecting complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review commonly encountered mechanical circulatory support devices in the ICU.
• To describe the normal imaging appearance of these devices.
• To highlight common device-related complications diagnosable via imaging.

Main Methods:

• Review of common mechanical circulatory support devices (intra-aortic balloon pumps, Impella, ECMO, VADs).
• Discussion of imaging findings for normal device appearance.
• Identification and description of imaging-diagnosed complications.

Main Results:

• Detailed descriptions of intra-aortic balloon pumps, Impella devices, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) cannulas, and ventricular assist devices (VADs).
• Illustrations of normal device positioning and function on imaging.
• Examples of common complications such as malposition, thrombosis, and bleeding.

Conclusions:

• Familiarity with mechanical circulatory support devices is vital for ICU radiologists.
• Imaging plays a key role in assessing device function and identifying potential complications.
• Accurate interpretation of imaging findings can guide clinical management and improve patient outcomes.