Management of cardiogenic shock

Cardiogenic shock (CS) remains the most common cause of death in patients with acute myocardial infarction although mortality could be reduced from formerly similar to 80% to 40-50%. In addition to percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass grafting, catecholamines, fluids, intraaortic balloon pumping (IABP), and also active assist devices are widely used for CS management. However, there is only limited evidence for any of the above treatments except for early revascularization and the relative ineffectiveness of IABP. This updated review will therefore outline the management of CS complicating acute myocardial infarction with major focus on evidence-based revascularization techniques, intensive care unit treatment including ventilation, transfusion regimens, adjunctive medication, and mechanical support devices.