Advances in Mechanical Circulatory Support in the Treatment of Heart Failure

Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) of short duration can be used in acute HF especially in acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock12. In the treatment of chronic HF the only definitive therapy is heart tx (TX) that can offer functional capacity, quality of life and better long-term survival expectancy13. However, considering the gap between potential candidates and donations, the TX is often an improper option. In this context, the MCS with Ventricular Assist Devices (VAD) has become an attractive option. These devices offer assistance to ill hearts, which is usually maintained to serve as a pump or support or as a conduit to fill the device14. The VAD therapy can act as a bridge to the future transplant (TB), a possible bridge to recovery of the heart or as definitive therapy (DT).