Eva Goncalvesová
Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) includes devices designed in a variety of ways to support or replace heart function
as a pump, to a greater or lesser extent, for a longer or shorter period of time. Severe heart failure with signs of cardiogenic
shock, whether in the case of acute myocardial lesion or in the context of chronic heart failure, is a syndrome with
a very poor prognosis. The only solution today is the use of a device that replaces heart function. In acute situations,
short-term support is being used to create a condition for myocardial recovery and/or a decision on further treatment.
In highly selected patients with terminal heart failure, it is usually indicated to implant long-term left ventricular assist
device for bridging to heart transplantation, or as a definitive solution of left ventricular failure. The article provides
a brief overview of the basic principles and results of the use of both short and long-term mechanical circulatory support.