mechanical circulatory support
Also written as: MCS — Mechanical Circulatory Support
Temporary devices used to assist or replace cardiac function during high-risk interventions.
Full Definition
Mechanical circulatory support encompasses various temporary devices designed to augment or replace cardiac function in critically ill patients or during high-risk procedures. These devices include intra-aortic balloon pumps, percutaneous ventricular assist devices (such as Impella), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) systems. In interventional cardiology, mechanical circulatory support may be used prophylactically in high-risk patients or emergently when hemodynamic compromise develops during procedures. The choice of device depends on the degree of support needed, vascular access, and patient-specific factors.
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as MCS; specify device type when relevant.
In Context
- "Mechanical circulatory support was initiated prophylactically due to severe left main disease." — High-risk PCI report
- "The patient required mechanical circulatory support following procedural complications." — Emergency procedure note