Wiener klinische Wochenschrift
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Cardiogenic shock (CS) is defined as end-organ hypoperfusion as the consequence of primary myocardial dysfunction. Among the diagnostic criteria are a systolic blood pressure < 90 mmHg, acute renal failure (oligoanuria), ischemic hepatitis, cyanosis and cold, clammy skin. Accepted hemodynamic cutoffs are a cardiac index < 2,2 (l/min)/m2 and a pulmonary capillary wedge pressure > 15 mmHg. ⋯ Noradrenaline and dobutamine are the first-line agents for medical stabilization. When such conventional measures fail, extracorporeal support devices such as ECMO or Impella© may be used. Currently, trials are underway to assess wheter these devices confer a survival benefit in this high-risk population.