External counterpulsation in low cardiac output states.
External counterpulsation represents a rational extension of the basic principles of counterpulsation as developed over the past 20 years. Its unique properties of being totally noninvasive, free of significant morbidity, and easily and quickly instituted clinically suggest that it may have a significant therapeutic role in the prevention and treatment of cardiogenic shock following acute myocardial infarction as well as being helpful in other cardiac disorders. Continuing evaluation is necessary, and it should be thought of as one of several useful mechanical circulatory assist devices now available to the internist, cardiologist, and surgeon caring for the critically ill patient.
D000787:Angina Pectoris / Q000628:therapy; D001243:Assisted Circulation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D006328:Cardiac Catheterization; D002302:Cardiac Output; D002305:Cardiac Tamponade / Q000628:therapy; D003326:Coronary Circulation; D006331:Heart Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D006334:Heart Function Tests; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy; D012770:Shock, Cardiogenic / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy