Imaging of Cardiac Support Devices

Patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) often have multiple support lines and devices that need routine imaging evaluation by radiologists. In patients with cardiogenic shock or depressed cardiac function, mechanical circulation support devices are often used in combination with medical therapies to improve patient outcomes and sometimes can stabilize patients for subsequent surgical intervention. This review discusses some of the more commonly encountered mechanical circulation devices seen in ICU patients and reviews both proper placement and commonly encountered device-related complications that can be diagnosed on imaging.