Microaxial flow-pump support in patients with cardiogenic shock: a review of the literature.

Objective: The purpose of this review is to summarize the current evidence in the treatment of patients with cardiogenic shock focusing on the use of microaxial flow pump (mAFP) support.

Results: In recent years, the use of mAFP for the treatment of patients with cardiogenic shock has increased. This review summarizes the most important studies on this topic from recent years with a focus on patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction-related cardiogenic shock (STEMI-CS).

Conclusions: Based on the results of a recently published randomized trial (DanGer Shock study), it is essential for clinical practice to carry out a differentiated patient selection to achieve a survival benefit. Specifically, according to the current findings, patients with STEMI-CS, intact right ventricular function, and a low probability of hypoxic brain damage appear to benefit most from treatment with mAFP. A subgroup analysis also suggests a benefit to patients younger than 77 years old.