Decompensated heart failure represents a complex clinical challenge, especially when patients require mechanical circulatory support (MCS). In this comprehensive interview, Alexandre Mebazaa and Roberto Lorusso discuss the various phenotypes of cardiogenic shock based on different underlying causes such as acute myocardial infarction, chronic cardiomyopathy, and postcardiotomy shock.
They stress the crucial need for early identification of patients with poor cardiac output and signs of end-organ hypoperfusion, which are decisive in preparing alternative therapeutic strategies. The conversation details essential clinical parameters, including blood pressure, biomarkers, and lactate levels, and advanced diagnostic tools such as echocardiographic evaluation of cardiac contractility.
These elements enable heart teams to make informed decisions, delivering personalized treatment approaches and choosing the right mechanical circulatory support device tailored to the patient’s condition and prognosis.
