Mechanical rescue of the heart in shock.

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a state of extreme hypoperfusion owing to pump failure manifested by altered mental status, cool extremities, and/or renal failure. This hypoperfusion leads to release of catecholamines and other inflammatory mediators, which further perpetuates myocardial ischemia and injury, resulting in additional impairment in systemic and tissue perfusion. Any cause of acute severe cardiac failure may lead to CS.