Table 1: Indications and Contraindications for Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support.

Indications

Contraindications

CI <1.8 l/min/m2 CVP >20 mmHg Systolic BP <80 mmHg with two inotropes Signs of distal low perfusion Cardiac arrest Cardiogenic shock Post-cardiotomy syndrome (unable to wean from bypass) Acute MI and related mechanical complications Acute myocarditis Acute or chronic decompensated heart failure Acute rejection post-cardiac transplant with haemodynamic compromise Prophylactic for high-risk interventions (percutaneous coronary intervention, ventricular tachycardia ablation) Refractory arrhythmias Bridge to recovery, bridge to decision, bridge to long-term VAD or transplant

Irreversible neurological disease Disseminated malignancy Severe peripheral vascular disease Thrombocytopenia Contraindication to anticoagulation

BP = blood pressure; CI = cardiac index; CVP = central venous pressure; VAD = ventricular assist device.