Information for the public
There are uncertainties about how well this procedure works or how safe it is for managing cardiogenic shock. So, it can only be done while more evidence is generated to check if it is safe and clinically effective. This means you will have regular appointments afterwards to check how well it is working or if it has caused problems.
Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening condition that happens when the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. In this procedure, a very small (microaxial) flow pump is temporarily used to pump blood out of the heart and restore blood flow. The pump is built into the tip of a tube (catheter). This is inserted through the skin (percutaneous) into an artery, usually in the groin. It is then pushed along the artery into the lower left chamber of the heart (ventricle). The aim is to allow time for the heart to recover by reducing how hard it needs to work, or to help the heart while a person is waiting for a heart transplant or other treatment.
Is this procedure right for me?
You should be included in making decisions about your care. See our webpage on shared decision making.
Your healthcare professionals should explain the risks and benefits of this procedure and how it is done. They should discuss your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. They should offer you more information about the procedure. Your family or carers can be involved if you want or need them to be.
You will be asked to decide whether you agree (consent) to have the procedure. Find out more about giving consent to treatment on the NHS website.
Some questions to think about
- How many appointments will I need?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- Will I have to stay in hospital?
- What happens if it does not work or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I do not want the procedure?
- Are other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS webpage on complications from a heart attack may be a good place to find out more.
The NHS website has information about NHS hospital services and referrals for specialist care.
- NICE's information on interventional procedures guidance explains what an interventional procedure is and how we assess it.
- NICE’s information on recommendations explains the types of recommendation we make.
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
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