A Recovery-Focused Framework for the Management of Cardiogenic Shock

Cardiogenic shock describes a syndrome of systemic hypoperfusion due to insufficient cardiac output. Therapeutic interventions aim to restore systemic perfusion and oxygen delivery, relieve congestion, and reverse the primary culprit pathologies that precipitate shock. Cardiogenic shock care often emphasizes acute rescue and survival; however, survival does not always equal meaningful recovery. In this review, we propose a recovery-focused framework in which myocardial and end-organ recovery are treated as explicit, measurable targets. Building upon prior frameworks proposed for the management of shock, we organize cardiogenic shock management into four overlapping phases: salvage, optimization, stabilization, and de-escalation. Each phase addresses a distinct clinical question: can the patient be rescued, is perfusion and unloading sufficient to prevent further injury, is meaningful myocardial and end-organ recovery occurring, and is recovery durable enough to withdraw support? We synthesize current strategies and highlight emerging targets and research priorities spanning early identification and triage, integrated macro- and microcirculatory monitoring, phenotype-guided management, targeted metabolic and immunologic therapies, use of mechanical circulatory support as a recovery platform, and structured de-escalation of care.