Initial Experiences with the Impella Device in Patients with Cardiogenic Shock

We planned a study to assess the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of the Impella micro-axial blood pump in patients with cardiogenic shock.From January 2001 to September 2002 inclusive, 16 patients in cardiogenic shock (maximal inotropic support and with IABP in 11 cases) underwent left ventricle unloading with the Impella pump. 6 were placed via the femoral artery (patients in the coronary care unit) and 10 directly through the aorta...