Mechanical circulatory support: complications, outcomes, and future directions.

Abstract

Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) has expanded con-siderably over the past decade; conditions that were once considered invariably terminal (or at least without therapeutic option) are now routinely offered MCS, often with favorable results. However, complications associated with MCS can be fatal, intended results from therapy are not always achieved, and improvements in currently existing devices are needed. We provide a contemporary review of the complications, outcomes, and future directions of MCS.