Mechanical Circulatory Support with Impella: Principles, Evidence, and Daily Practice

Abstract

The Impella (Abiomed, Danvers, MA, USA) microaxial pump is a percutaneous mechanical circulatory support (MCS) that has been shown to increase coronary perfusion, reduce myocardial oxygen demand, and improve peripheral organ perfusion. Therefore, indications for the Impella device include emergency use for cardiogenic shock (CS) and pre-emptive implantation during high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (HR-PCI). However, despite their exponential use in cardiovascular practice over the past decade, there is limited randomized evidence to support the benefits of this therapy and growing concern regarding complication rates. In this review, we summarize the principles, evidence, and practical considerations of the most widely used Impella CP percutaneous left ventricular support in both CS and HR-PCI settings, moving from the historical background to current issues and future expectations for this device.