Cardiology Conference-CVC 2026

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices are sophisticated therapies developed to support or replace the pumping capability of a failing heart. They are important to patients with advanced heart failure, cardiogenic shock or patients following heart transplantation as a temporary or prolonged measure to support circulation or organ perfusion.

Common MCS devices include:

Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs): Implanted devices to augment left ventricular (LVAD), right ventricular (RVAD) or biventricular (BiVAD) function, VADs offer durable support for those patients with chronic heart failure.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO): Provides temporary support of both the heart and lung function in critical care settings.

Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump (IABP): A temporary device to assist the heart by reducing afterload and enhancing coronary perfusion.

The patient evaluated includes comprehensive cardiac imaging, hemodynamic assessment and a multi-disciplinary team to determine device selection, timing and support strategy. The MCS templates indicate their use for bridge-to-transplant, bridge-to-recovery, or destination therapy, based upon patient need.

Benefits of MCS include circulation stabilization, improved organ function, relief of heart failure symptoms, and improved survival for critically ill patients. Advances in monitoring and device technology have also improved complications rates including thrombus, infection, or device malfunction.

As the future of MCS advances with continual development of device design, miniaturization and patient outcomes...