Extracorporeal mechanical circulatory assist.

There are currently several safe and effective options to provide temporary MCS for patients presenting with cardiogenic shock or refractory heart failure. Newer device designs are currently being developed that will increase the options available to patients. Due to the technological advancements, it will be difficult to predict what devices will ultimately prove to be the most efficacious. It is likely that a variety of devices will be necessary, depending on clinical circumstances and patient characteristics.