Mechanical Assist Devices and Artificial Organs in Critically Ill Patients

Abstract

The use of mechanical circulatory support has increased over the past decade for both extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and ventricular assist devices owing to a growing number of devices . One of the mechanical circulatory support devices is the Intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation which is a temporary method that attempts to create more favorable balance of myocardial oxygen supply. The intraaortic balloon pump is one of the most frequently placed mechanical circulatory support devices which is used in managing cardiogenic shock, intractable angina and myocardial ischemia. Recently, the application of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) technology to provide mechanical circulatory support is increasing in an incremental fashion because Maximal medical therapy can no longer be seen as a justifiable end-point treatment. In comparison with treatments based on intermittent inotrope infusion programs, left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) has improved patient survival and quality of life .