Mechanical Circulatory Support
Also written as: MCS — Mechanical Circulatory Support
Devices that augment or replace cardiac function to maintain circulation in patients with severe heart failure.
Full Definition
Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) encompasses a range of devices designed to assist or replace the pumping function of the failing heart. These devices include ventricular assist devices (VADs), total artificial hearts, intra-aortic balloon pumps, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). MCS can serve as a bridge to transplantation, bridge to recovery, or destination therapy for end-stage heart failure patients. The selection of appropriate MCS depends on the degree of heart failure, reversibility of the condition, transplant candidacy, and patient-specific factors. Implantation of these devices requires specialized surgical expertise and multidisciplinary team management for optimal outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the type of MCS device and indication (bridge to transplant, destination therapy, etc.) when documenting.
In Context
- "The patient was evaluated for mechanical circulatory support as a bridge to transplantation given refractory cardiogenic shock." — Heart failure consultation
- "Mechanical circulatory support with a left ventricular assist device resulted in significant clinical improvement and end-organ recovery." — Follow-up assessment